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Tribulus Terrestris: Action Mechanisms and Practical Applications in Sports
Tribulus terrestris, also known as puncture vine, is a plant that has been used in traditional medicine for centuries. In recent years, it has gained popularity in the sports world for its potential performance-enhancing effects. This article will explore the action mechanisms of Tribulus terrestris and its practical applications in sports.
Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics
Before delving into the action mechanisms of Tribulus terrestris, it is important to understand its pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics. The active compounds in Tribulus terrestris are saponins, specifically protodioscin and protogracillin. These saponins are responsible for the plant’s effects on the body.
When consumed, Tribulus terrestris is rapidly absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract and reaches peak plasma levels within 1-2 hours. It is then metabolized in the liver and excreted through the kidneys. The half-life of Tribulus terrestris is approximately 5 hours, making it a relatively short-acting supplement.
The pharmacodynamics of Tribulus terrestris involve its interaction with androgen receptors. It has been shown to increase the production of luteinizing hormone (LH) and testosterone, which are important hormones for muscle growth and performance. Additionally, Tribulus terrestris has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can aid in recovery and reduce muscle damage.
Performance-Enhancing Effects
One of the main reasons for the use of Tribulus terrestris in sports is its potential performance-enhancing effects. Several studies have shown that supplementation with Tribulus terrestris can increase muscle strength and endurance, as well as improve overall athletic performance.
In a study by Rogerson et al. (2007), 22 male rugby players were given either a placebo or 450mg of Tribulus terrestris daily for 5 weeks. The group that received Tribulus terrestris showed a significant increase in muscle strength and power compared to the placebo group. Another study by Neychev and Mitev (2005) found that supplementation with Tribulus terrestris for 8 weeks resulted in increased muscle endurance and reduced muscle damage in elite male wrestlers.
These performance-enhancing effects can be attributed to the increase in testosterone levels caused by Tribulus terrestris. Testosterone is a key hormone for muscle growth and strength, and its increase can lead to improved athletic performance.
Practical Applications
Aside from its performance-enhancing effects, Tribulus terrestris also has practical applications in sports. Its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties make it a useful supplement for aiding in recovery and reducing muscle damage.
In a study by Milasius et al. (2009), 15 male athletes were given either a placebo or 625mg of Tribulus terrestris daily for 20 days. The group that received Tribulus terrestris showed a significant decrease in markers of muscle damage and inflammation compared to the placebo group. This suggests that Tribulus terrestris can aid in recovery and reduce the risk of injury in athletes.
Furthermore, Tribulus terrestris has been shown to have a positive effect on male sexual health. In a study by Gauthaman et al. (2002), 30 men with erectile dysfunction were given either a placebo or 6g of Tribulus terrestris daily for 60 days. The group that received Tribulus terrestris showed a significant improvement in erectile function compared to the placebo group. This can be beneficial for male athletes who may experience a decrease in sexual function due to intense training and competition.
Real-World Examples
Tribulus terrestris has gained popularity in the sports world, with many athletes and bodybuilders incorporating it into their supplement regimen. One example is professional bodybuilder and Mr. Olympia winner, Jay Cutler, who has stated that he uses Tribulus terrestris to help maintain his testosterone levels and improve his overall performance.
Another real-world example is the use of Tribulus terrestris by Bulgarian weightlifters in the 1980s. It was reported that they used the plant to improve their strength and performance, leading to their dominance in the sport during that time.
Expert Comments
According to Dr. John Berardi, a renowned sports nutritionist and founder of Precision Nutrition, “Tribulus terrestris has shown promising results in improving muscle strength and endurance, making it a potential supplement for athletes looking to enhance their performance.” He also notes that more research is needed to fully understand the effects of Tribulus terrestris on athletic performance.
References
Gauthaman, K., Adaikan, P. G., & Prasad, R. N. V. (2002). Aphrodisiac properties of Tribulus Terrestris extract (Protodioscin) in normal and castrated rats. Life Sciences, 71(12), 1385-1396.
Milasius, K., Dadeliene, R., Skernevicius, J., & Eimantas, N. (2009). The influence of the Tribulus terrestris extract on the parameters of the functional preparedness and athletes’ organism homeostasis. FASEB Journal, 23(1 Supplement), 599.3-599.3.
Neychev, V. K., & Mitev, V. I. (2005). The aphrodisiac herb Tribulus terrestris does not influence the androgen production in young men. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 101(1-3), 319-323.
Rogerson, S., Riches, C. J., Jennings, C., Weatherby, R. P., Meir, R. A., & Marshall-Gradisnik, S. M. (2007). The effect of five weeks of Tribulus terrestris supplementation on muscle strength and body composition during preseason training in elite rugby league players. The Journal of Strength & Conditioning Research, 21(2), 348-353.
Photos and Graphs
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