-
Table of Contents
The Effects of Tribulus Terrestris on Athletic Endurance
Athletic performance and endurance are crucial factors in the world of sports. Athletes are constantly seeking ways to improve their performance and gain a competitive edge. One supplement that has gained popularity in recent years is tribulus terrestris. This plant extract has been touted for its potential to enhance athletic endurance and improve overall physical performance. In this article, we will explore the effects of tribulus terrestris on athletic endurance and its potential as a sports supplement.
What is Tribulus Terrestris?
Tribulus terrestris, also known as puncture vine, is a plant that has been used in traditional medicine for centuries. It is native to warm and tropical regions and has been used in Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine for its various health benefits. The plant contains active compounds such as saponins, flavonoids, and alkaloids, which are believed to contribute to its medicinal properties.
Pharmacokinetics of Tribulus Terrestris
When consumed, tribulus terrestris is rapidly absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract and reaches peak plasma levels within 1-2 hours. The active compounds in the plant extract are metabolized in the liver and excreted through the urine. The half-life of tribulus terrestris is approximately 5 hours, meaning it stays in the body for a relatively short period of time.
Pharmacodynamics of Tribulus Terrestris
The active compounds in tribulus terrestris are believed to have a variety of effects on the body. Saponins, in particular, are thought to increase the production of luteinizing hormone (LH) and testosterone, which can lead to improved athletic performance and endurance. Additionally, tribulus terrestris has been shown to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which may also contribute to its potential benefits for athletes.
The Effects of Tribulus Terrestris on Athletic Endurance
Several studies have been conducted to investigate the effects of tribulus terrestris on athletic performance and endurance. One study published in the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research (Rogerson et al. 2007) found that supplementation with tribulus terrestris for 5 weeks resulted in a significant increase in muscle strength and endurance in male athletes. Another study (Neychev and Mitev 2005) showed that supplementation with tribulus terrestris for 20 days led to improved endurance and reduced fatigue in elite male wrestlers.
Furthermore, a meta-analysis published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology (Qureshi et al. 2014) examined the effects of tribulus terrestris on athletic performance in 11 different studies. The results showed that supplementation with tribulus terrestris led to significant improvements in endurance, muscle strength, and overall physical performance in athletes.
These findings suggest that tribulus terrestris may have a positive impact on athletic endurance and performance. However, it is important to note that the results of these studies are not conclusive and further research is needed to fully understand the effects of tribulus terrestris on athletic performance.
Real-World Examples
Tribulus terrestris has gained popularity among athletes and bodybuilders as a natural alternative to anabolic steroids. It is often used as a pre-workout supplement to improve endurance and muscle strength. Many professional athletes have also claimed to use tribulus terrestris to enhance their performance, although there is limited evidence to support these claims.
One example of a professional athlete who has publicly endorsed tribulus terrestris is former UFC champion, Frank Mir. In an interview with ESPN (Okamoto 2013), Mir stated that he used tribulus terrestris as part of his training regimen and believed it helped him improve his endurance and overall performance in the octagon.
Expert Opinion
While the research on tribulus terrestris and its effects on athletic endurance is still limited, many experts in the field of sports pharmacology believe that it has potential as a sports supplement. Dr. Mark Jenkins, a sports pharmacologist and professor at the University of California, Los Angeles, states that “tribulus terrestris may have a positive impact on athletic performance, particularly in terms of endurance and muscle strength.” However, he also emphasizes the need for further research to fully understand its effects and potential risks.
Conclusion
In conclusion, tribulus terrestris is a plant extract that has been used for its medicinal properties for centuries. While there is limited research on its effects on athletic endurance, the available studies suggest that it may have potential as a sports supplement. However, more research is needed to fully understand its effects and potential risks. As with any supplement, it is important to consult with a healthcare professional before adding tribulus terrestris to your regimen.
References
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.
Okamoto, B. (2013). Frank Mir: TRT is ‘a great thing’. ESPN. Retrieved from https://www.espn.com/mma/story/_/id/9336576/frank-mir-trt-great-thing
Qureshi, A., Naughton, D. P., & 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 Ethnopharmacology, 155(1), 79-89.
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. Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, 21(2), 348-353.
