Top 8 Tribulus Terrestris Side Effects
Tribulus Terrestris is a scientific name of an herbal medication that is being used for men to increase the muscular mass as well as to increase libido or sexual drive and Trimethoprim side effects tackles a different medication. Aside from that, the Tribulus Terrestris is known to treat persons with kidney, blood pressure, skin and cancer problems. In addition to that, Tribulus Terrestris is also known as Caltrop or puncture vine. It belongs to the family called zygophyllaceae and grows best in desert and warm climate and can even survive well in poor condition of the soil.
The Tribulus Terrestris plant
Historically speaking, Tribulus Terrestris has been known in both the ayurveda and Chinese medicine. It has been famous herbal medication back in the 1970 which provides the following advantages to persons who ingests it:
- Increases testosterone level
- Improves the circulation of blood in one’s body
- Lowers the blood pressure in hypertensive persons
- Improves the function of the kidneys because it has diuretic properties
- Facilitates muscular growth
- Lowers cholesterol level
- Treats vertigo
- Mood enhancer
- Treats fatigue
- Positive effect on one’s immune system
These advantages are the ones that draw persons to take in Tribulus Terrestris. Athletic men are one of the persons who are often drawn towards this kind of herbal medication for it provides them muscular growth as well as high testosterone level.
Tribulus Terrestris Side Effects
Despite the many advantages that one can cull out from taking in Tribulus Terrestris, there are also side effects that are associated with this herbal medication that one must consider and understand prior to the intake of such medication. The following are the common side effects of Tribulus Terrestris:
Allergic reaction
As with any medication, some persons may find allergic to the Tribulus Terrestris component. Under this reaction, they may report tightening of the throat or chest, itchy sensation, swelling which is unexplained, rashes or hives, chest pain or breathing difficulties. Allergic reactions, which are part of the Tribulus Terrestris side effects, are medical emergency that one must attend to immediately or else suffer the life threatening curse of anaphylaxis which leads to severity in breathing difficulties and low blood pressure level.
Effects in the cardiovascular and metabolic system
Another Tribulus Terrestris side effects deals with the cardiovascular and metabolic system wherein persons often report palpitations, restlessness, increase in energy and warmth feeling. These manifestations are commonly seen in persons who ingest 500mg above dosages which is above than the normal suggested dosage for Tribulus Terrestris.
Hormonal consideration
Another thing to consider when taking in Tribulus Terrestris is the hormonal levels, which is one of the Tribulus Terrestris side effects. For it is known that this medication can lead to the rising of the testosterone hormones and men who are suffering from prostate may find this non-beneficial for their part. According to research, Tribulus Terrestris could worsen enlarge prostate, prostate cancer or lead to a higher risk in prostate cancer. Another thing is that when women takes this herbal medication, their male hormone level, which is normally low, will increase and could then lead to masculinity of the female genitals, lower voice quality, increase in facial hair growth or female fetus if the woman is pregnant.
Photosensitivity
Photosensitivity is another part of the Tribulus Terrestris side effects. Hence, it is important to state to the person that application of sun screen prior to sunlight or sun exposure is necessary with this kind of medication.
Surgical side effects
Persons who take in Tribulus Terrestris and are expected to undergo surgical procedure will encounter problems with regards to blood sugar level. Hence, it is suggested that the person halt ingesting this medication for two weeks prior to the scheduled surgery so as not to interfere with the blood sugar levels.
Mood swings
Mood swings are possible part of the Tribulus Terrestris side effects which is brought about by the high increase of the testosterone levels. Most often the mood swings associated here are violent mood swings or anger.
Stomach upset
This is common especially in the first few days of the herbal medical treatment. This side effect which is part of the Tribulus Terrestris side effects will later on vanish as the body tries to adjust to such medication.
Gynecomastia
Tribulus Terrestris side effects include Gynecomastia. This is a medical term which means enlargement of the breast. This can be due to the changing levels of both the estrogen and androgens and how the body responds to the hormones can lead to such side effect.
Dehydration
Dehydration is defined as loss of a large amount of fluid in the body. Tribulus causes frequent urination because of its diuretic content that may lead to dehydration.
Hypoglycemia
Hypoglycemia is a condition wherein the blood sugar level is low. Tribulus impedes the sugar level in blood resulting to Hypoglycemia. Taking this supplement along with anti diabetic medication may lead to Hypoglycemia, it is proper to monitor your blood sugar regularly. It is also advisable to stop taking Tribulus for a few weeks before a scheduled surgery because hypoglycemia might delay wound healing.
Brain Damage
In rare cases, Tribulus can also damage the brain function that can even lead to death. Tribulus has Alkaloid properties called Beta Carbolines, these chemical is known with its effect on the neural activity of the Brain. Too much amount of it can cause permanent damage to the brain and impaired muscle function.
Lung Damage
It is also known that Tribulus can cause damage to the lungs when the fruit of Tribulus is eaten raw and unprocessed.
Breast cancer
Tribulus can cause a large amount of harm in patients suffering from hormone related cancer like Breast cancer