Also called Maltese Cross, tribulus is a plant with multiple virtues that grows in tropical areas. It has been used as an aphrodisiac for thousands of years. Find out more about its characteristics, its history and its many benefits.
What is tribulus?
The tribulus is an annual herbaceous plant of the family Zygophyllaceae. This name comes from the Latin and indicates a trap with several points, thus making reference to the long sharp spines which characterize the plant. It is also distinguished by its hairy appearance and its five-petalled yellow flowers.
The flowering generally occurs at the end of spring and gives rise to small fruits which are divided into five parts. It is their particular shape which is at the origin of the nickname "Croix-de-Malte" attributed to the plant. The leaves of the tribulus plant grow symmetrically to the stem while the latter develops at ground level. It can thus extend on a space being able to reach one meter of radius, while the height hardly exceeds the fifty centimeters.
How was the plant discovered?
The tribulus is a plant very widespread in West Africa, in the hot regions of America and in Asia. For thousands of years, its fruit has been used in India and China to combat infertility and sexual disorders in both men and women. But tribulus has only recently become popular with the Western public.
Indeed, at the beginning of the years 1980, Olympic weightlifters of Bulgarian origin reveal that the plant would have a favorable effect on their sporting performances. Tribulus contains many active ingredients likely to increase the production of testosterone. It is used today alone or in association with other plants to improve well-being.
What are the benefits of the tribulus plant?
This plant is particularly known for its aphrodisiac virtues. It increases libido and helps to overcome erectile dysfunction in men. It would also have a beneficial effect on the density and volume of sperm, thus promoting fertility. Associated with shatavari, tribulus increases desire and reduces the signs of menopause in women.
Tribulus also improves sports performance and facilitates recovery after physical effort. This is due to its high composition of antioxidants and saponins, known to be precursors of testosterone. For better results, it is associated with ashwagandha, also known for its ability to boost physical capacity and improve muscle function. It is also an effective solution to ensure the proper functioning of the urinary tract.
How is this plant used?
Tribulus is used as an ingredient in the manufacture of many food supplements. It exists in the form of capsules, tablets, or infusions. To make the most of the virtues of the freshly harvested plant, it can also be used in the form of powder or mother tincture.
