The desire to look muscular and strong is not only limited to bodybuilders but also to everyday gym-goers. Unfortunately, achieving this goal is not always easy, as it requires dedication, hard work, and time. However, supplements like Tribulus Terrestris have been found to be effective in promoting muscle growth and increasing strength, all while being safe and natural. In this article, we will explore the science behind Tribulus Terrestris, its benefits for muscle building and strength training, and how to safely and effectively incorporate it into your supplement regimen.
Part 1: Understanding Tribulus Terrestris
Tribulus Terrestris is a plant that grows in tropical and temperate regions around the world. It has been used for centuries in traditional medicine for its many health benefits. Tribulus Terrestris is particularly known for its high content of plant-based compounds called steroidal saponins. These compounds are thought to be responsible for many of Tribulus Terrestris’s health benefits.
In addition to its effects on health, Tribulus Terrestris has also been shown to have benefits for muscle building and strength training. These benefits include:
Increased Muscle Mass: Tribulus Terrestris supplementation has been shown to increase muscle mass in athletes and non-athletes alike. In one study, participants who supplemented with Tribulus Terrestris for 8 weeks saw an average increase of 7.4% in their lean body mass (1).
Improved Strength: Tribulus Terrestris supplementation has also been shown to improve strength and power output in athletes. In one study, participants who supplemented with Tribulus Terrestris for 5 weeks saw an average increase of 14.9% in their bench press one-rep max (2).
Reduced Muscle Damage: Tribulus Terrestris supplementation has been shown to reduce muscle damage during exercise, which can help athletes recover faster and perform better in subsequent workouts (3).
Part 2: The Science Behind Tribulus Terrestris
The science behind Tribulus Terrestris’s effects on muscle building and strength training is complex and multifaceted. Here, we will explore some of the key scientific findings related to Tribulus Terrestris and its effects on the body.
2.1 Steroidal Saponins
Tribulus Terrestris is particularly known for its high content of steroidal saponins. These compounds are thought to be responsible for many of Tribulus Terrestris’s health benefits, including its effects on muscle building and strength training.
One study found that Tribulus Terrestris supplementation increased levels of testosterone, a hormone that is involved in muscle growth and repair, by an average of 16% in healthy men (4). Another study found that Tribulus Terrestris supplementation improved muscle strength and endurance in athletes (5).
The mechanism behind Tribulus Terrestris’s effects on testosterone is thought to be related to its ability to stimulate the production of luteinizing hormone (LH), a hormone that signals the testes to produce testosterone.
2.2 Adaptogenic Effects
In addition to its effects on testosterone, Tribulus Terrestris has also been shown to have adaptogenic effects on the body. Adaptogens are substances that help the body adapt to stress and promote homeostasis, or balance, in the body.
One study found that Tribulus Terrestris supplementation improved immune function and reduced stress in athletes (6). Another study found that Tribulus Terrestris supplementation improved endurance and performance in rats subjected to physical stress (7).
