Tribulus terrestris for fertility
On this page
- What is tribulus terrestris?
- Function and how it works
- Fertility benefits
- Recommended daily dose
- Sources
- Cautions and contraindications
- My Fertility Guide
- Related pages
1. What is tribulus terrestris?
Tribulus terrestris is a flowering plant native to the Mediterranean and to subtropical desert regions including India, Myanmar and parts of Africa. It has been used for centuries in Ayurvedic and traditional medicine for male virility, sexual function and fertility. Modern research has confirmed effects on male hormone levels and sperm parameters.
Reference ranges and recommended intakes vary from country to country — always interpret guidance against the recommendations of your own healthcare authority.
2. Function and how it works
Tribulus supports fertility through:
- Testosterone and DHT. Research has shown tribulus can increase levels of testosterone and dihydrotestosterone (DHT) — the latter being the most active androgen for sperm production.
- Sperm parameters. Tribulus supplementation has been shown to improve sperm count, motility and morphology in men with poor semen analysis.
- Libido and sexual function. Tribulus enhances libido and erectile function in some men.
- LH support. Tribulus may modestly increase LH, which stimulates Leydig cells to produce testosterone.
3. Fertility benefits
Tribulus is particularly relevant for men with:
- Low testosterone
- Poor sperm count, motility or morphology
- Low libido or erectile difficulties
- Sub-optimal LH levels
It is generally not recommended for women with PCOS or high testosterone, as it may worsen androgen excess.
4. Recommended daily dose
I recommend a daily dose of 250 mg of standardised tribulus extract (typically standardised to 40–60% saponins). Higher doses are sometimes used by athletes but are not generally needed for fertility support.
5. Sources
Tribulus is taken as a standardised herbal supplement, available as:
- Capsules (the most common form)
- Tablets
- Tinctures
Choose a standardised extract from a reputable supplier — quality varies considerably between brands.
6. Cautions and contraindications
- Tribulus is generally not recommended for women, particularly those with PCOS or high testosterone.
- Avoid in pregnancy — safety not established.
- Discuss with your doctor before use if you have prostate problems, hormone-sensitive conditions, or take any hormonal medication.
- Discontinue and seek advice if you experience irregular heartbeat, sleep disturbance or unusual mood changes.
- Always consult with a fertility specialist or your doctor before starting any new supplement regime.
7. My Fertility Guide
My Fertility Guide by Dr (TCM) Attilio D’Alberto is a comprehensive, evidence-based guide to natural conception, based on over 350 peer-reviewed research studies and 25 years of clinical experience. It blends cutting-edge science with the proven theories of traditional Chinese medicine to give you a complete, practical and easy-to-understand resource for improving your fertility.
The book covers the menstrual cycle and how to identify your fertile window, how to improve egg quality and sperm quality, optimising your diet, lifestyle and environment for conception, evidence-based supplements for both men and women, the most common fertility conditions including PCOS, endometriosis and low AMH, and the role of acupuncture and Chinese herbal medicine in improving fertility outcomes. Available in paperback, Kindle and ebook from Amazon, Waterstones and all major bookshops.
