Gokshura, known scientifically as Tribulus terrestris, is a powerful herb that has been widely used in Ayurvedic and traditional Chinese medicine for centuries. It is often recognized for its potential to enhance vitality, support reproductive health, and improve overall wellness. In Western countries, gokshura is primarily marketed as a dietary supplement, especially for boosting libido and testosterone levels.
Despite its long history of medicinal use, modern scientific research on gokshura is still evolving. While some studies highlight its promising health benefits, further research is needed to fully understand its effects.
What Is Gokshura?
Gokshura is a small, sprawling plant that belongs to the caltrop family. It thrives in warm climates, growing in regions such as South Asia, Southern Europe, Africa, and Northern Australia. The plant features oblong leaves, delicate yellow flowers, and thorny fruits that resemble a cow’s hoof—hence the name “Go-kshura,” meaning “cow’s hoof” in Sanskrit.
In Ayurvedic medicine, almost every part of the gokshura plant is valued for its therapeutic properties. Traditionally, it has been used to address a variety of health concerns, including urinary tract disorders, kidney ailments, inflammation, chronic respiratory issues, and reproductive health problems.
Today, gokshura is commonly available in different forms, such as gokshura powder, capsules, and tablets, often labeled under its botanical name, Tribulus terrestris. Many people take it as a supplement to improve their overall vitality, athletic performance, and hormonal balance.
What Is Gokshura Good For?
Gokshura has been extensively studied for its diverse health benefits, particularly in relation to kidney function, hormone regulation, and reproductive health. Some of its most well-known benefits include:
- Supporting urinary tract and kidney health by preventing the formation of kidney stones
- Acting as a diuretic to help the body flush out excess fluids
- Enhancing reproductive health in both men and women
- Providing natural hormonal support, including boosting testosterone and estrogen levels
- Promoting skin health and relieving itchiness, especially on the hands and feet
Health Benefits of Gokshura
Although gokshura has been used for centuries, modern research is beginning to uncover its potential benefits. Here are some key areas where gokshura may have a positive impact:
Powerful Antioxidant Properties
Gokshura is rich in antioxidants—compounds that help neutralize harmful free radicals in the body. Free radical damage has been linked to various chronic conditions, including heart disease, diabetes, and neurodegenerative disorders. Studies suggest that polyphenols and other antioxidant compounds found in gokshura may help protect the kidneys, liver, heart, and brain from oxidative stress.
Gokshura Benefits for Male Libido and Testosterone
One of the most well-known gokshura benefits for males is its ability to boost libido and support testosterone production. Some studies indicate that taking gokshura supplements can increase sexual desire and improve overall reproductive function.
In one study, men with low libido who took 750–1,500 mg of gokshura daily for two months reported a 79% increase in sexual desire. Another study found that women who took gokshura experienced improved sexual function, including increased arousal and reduced discomfort during intercourse.
May Help Regulate Blood Sugar Levels
Preliminary research suggests that gokshura may help stabilize blood sugar levels. In vitro studies indicate that gokshura inhibits certain enzymes responsible for breaking down carbohydrates, potentially reducing blood sugar spikes after meals. Additionally, animal studies have shown that gokshura supplementation can significantly lower fasting blood sugar levels in diabetic subjects.
In a human study, women with type 2 diabetes who took 1,000 mg of gokshura daily for 12 weeks experienced significant reductions in fasting blood sugar, triglycerides, and LDL (bad) cholesterol levels.
Gokshura Benefits for Female Health
Gokshura is not just beneficial for men, it also offers significant health advantages for women. Traditionally used in Ayurveda to support women’s reproductive health, modern research suggests that gokshura may help alleviate symptoms of menopause, such as hot flashes, mood swings, and vaginal dryness.
Additionally, early research indicates that gokshura may be beneficial for women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Animal studies suggest that gokshura can improve ovarian function and hormonal balance in PCOS-affected individuals.
Some laboratory studies have also explored the effects of gokshura on hormone-sensitive cancers, such as breast and ovarian cancer. While findings suggest that gokshura extract may help inhibit tumor growth, more research is needed before drawing definitive conclusions.
Other Potential Benefits of Gokshura
Beyond its well-researched applications, gokshura may offer other health benefits, including:
- Supporting heart health: Early studies suggest that gokshura may help lower cholesterol levels and improve overall cardiovascular function.
- Enhancing athletic performance: Some athletes use gokshura supplements to improve stamina, muscle recovery, and physical endurance.
- Reducing inflammation: Gokshura contains anti-inflammatory compounds that may help relieve joint pain and swelling.
While these potential benefits are promising, more human studies are needed to confirm gokshura’s full range of health effects.
Additional Health Benefits of Gokshura
Beyond its widely recognized uses, gokshura may offer several other health benefits. While research is still evolving, early studies suggest its potential role in the following areas:
- May reduce inflammation: Compounds found in gokshura, such as tribulusamide, may help reduce inflammation, according to preliminary in vitro and animal studies.
- May support healthy blood pressure: Research suggests that gokshura may help lower blood pressure by inhibiting enzymes that contribute to blood vessel constriction.
- May provide pain relief: An animal study found that gokshura extract had analgesic properties, helping to relieve pain.
- May help prevent kidney stones: Studies suggest that gokshura’s diuretic effects may support kidney function and reduce the risk of kidney stone formation.
Does Gokshura Increase Testosterone?
One of the most common claims about gokshura is its ability to boost testosterone levels, particularly in men. This belief stems from animal studies in which gokshura supplementation significantly increased testosterone production.
However, human research does not strongly support this claim.
For example, a review of 11 studies, including 7 conducted on humans, analyzed the effects of gokshura supplements (200–1,350 mg per day) on testosterone levels. The findings showed no significant increase in free or total testosterone levels.
Similarly, a 12-week study involving 180 men found that taking 1,500 mg of gokshura daily did not lead to higher testosterone levels. However, the participants did experience improvements in sexual function and relief from erectile dysfunction.
In summary, while gokshura may support reproductive health and libido, there is little evidence that it directly increases testosterone levels in humans.
Gokshura and Physical Performance
Many fitness enthusiasts and athletes take gokshura supplements to improve exercise performance, aid muscle recovery, and enhance muscle growth. This is largely due to the misconception that gokshura raises testosterone, which is linked to muscle development.
However, studies show mixed results:
- A five-week study in elite rugby players found that taking 450 mg of gokshura daily did not significantly impact muscle mass, strength, or fat reduction.
- An older eight-week study in men taking gokshura at 1.46 mg per pound of body weight (3.21 mg per kg) showed no noticeable changes in body composition or muscle strength.
- A 10-week study on male boxers taking 1,250 mg of gokshura per day found no increase in muscle mass or testosterone levels. However, it did appear to reduce muscle damage and enhance anaerobic performance during high-intensity training.
While gokshura may not directly contribute to muscle growth, it could still offer benefits for endurance and recovery. More research is needed to confirm its role in sports performance.
Is Gokshura Safe? Dosage and Recommendations
Gokshura is generally considered safe and well-tolerated. However, some individuals may experience mild side effects, such as:
- Stomach discomfort
- Cramps
- Nausea or vomiting (in rare cases)
Gokshura supplements are widely available in grocery stores, health food shops, and online under the name Tribulus terrestris. You can find it in various forms, including powder, capsules, and tablets.
Recommended Dosage
There is no universally recommended dosage for gokshura. However, studies have used the following dosages for different purposes:
- For libido and sexual health: 250–1,500 mg per day
- For blood sugar regulation: 1,000 mg per day
- For menopausal symptoms: Some products suggest doses as high as 3,000 mg per day
Since supplement strengths can vary, it is best to follow the dosage instructions on the product label. Always consult with a healthcare professional before adding gokshura to your routine, especially if you have any existing health conditions or take medications.
Final Thoughts on Gokshura
Gokshura (Tribulus terrestris) has been a staple in Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine for centuries, and modern research suggests it may offer various health benefits.
Some of its key benefits include:
- Antioxidant properties
- Supporting libido and sexual health
- Helping regulate blood sugar levels
- Providing potential benefits for women’s reproductive health
- Reducing blood pressure and inflammation
- Supporting kidney health and preventing kidney stones
- Providing pain relief
However, despite its popularity as a natural testosterone booster, human research does not confirm this effect. While gokshura may improve sexual function, it does not appear to increase testosterone levels significantly. Additionally, its impact on muscle growth and athletic performance remains unclear.
Overall, gokshura is a well-tolerated supplement with minimal side effects. If you’re considering taking it, consult your healthcare provider to determine the right dosage and ensure it aligns with your health needs.
