T. terrestris is now being promoted as a booster for the purpose of increasing sex drive. Its use for this purpose originated from a Bulgarian study conducted in the 1970s, which found effects on free testosterone and lutenizing hormone in men belonging to infertile couples. A research review conducted in 2000 stated that the lack of data outside of this study prevents generalizing to healthy individuals. [7]
The extract is claimed to increase the body's natural testosterone levels and thereby improve male sexual performance and help build muscle. Its muscle-building potential was popularised by American IFBB bodybuilding champion Jeffrey Petermann in the early 1970s. T. terrestris has consistently failed to increase testosterone levels in controlled studies.[8][9][10] It has also failed to demonstrate strength-enhancing properties.[11] However, many supplement brands claim effects of products that combine various herbs with T. terrestris.
Tribulus has been shown to enhance sexual behaviour in an animal model.[12] It appears to do so by stimulating androgen receptors in the brain.
Some body builders use T. terrestris as post cycle therapy or "PCT". After they have completed an anabolic-steroid cycle, they use it under the assumption that it will restore the body's natural testosterone levels.
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