Safety Profile
Overall safety rating: Generally Safe
Tribulus Terrestris Side Effects & Safety
This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement. Full disclaimer
Potential Side Effects
- Mild GI discomfort (stomach upset, cramping) — usually transient
- Sleep disturbances (insomnia) reported occasionally
- Rare case reports of elevated liver enzymes with prolonged high-dose use
- Theoretical concern: may worsen BPH symptoms in susceptible individuals
Drug & Supplement Interactions
- Blood pressure medications — tribulus may have mild hypotensive effects; monitor if combining
- Diabetes medications — some animal studies suggest hypoglycemic effects; monitor blood glucose
- Lithium — tribulus has diuretic properties that could affect lithium clearance; consult psychiatrist
- Hormone-sensitive conditions — avoid with hormone-sensitive cancers until more data is available
Maximum Dose
Do not exceed: 1500mg daily has been used in studies without significant adverse effects
References
- Kamenov Z, Fileva S, Kalinov K, Jannini EA (2017). Evaluation of the efficacy and safety of Tribulus terrestris in male sexual dysfunction — a prospective, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial. Maturitas. DOI PubMed
- Qureshi A, Naughton DP, Petroczi A (2014). A systematic review on the herbal extract Tribulus terrestris and the roots of its putative aphrodisiac and performance enhancing effect. Journal of Dietary Supplements. DOI PubMed
- Rogerson S, Riches CJ, Jennings C, Weatherby RP, Meir RA, Marshall-Gradisnik SM (2007). The effect of five weeks of Tribulus terrestris supplementation on muscle strength and body composition during preseason training in elite rugby league players. Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research. DOI PubMed