Between 10 to 40% of men worldwide struggle with male hypogonadism, based on different diagnostic criteria. Many men over 60 now turn to natural solutions like tribulus testosterone supplements as this health issue grows more common. People have used Tribulus terrestris, a traditional medicinal plant, for generations. Today, companies market it as a natural way to boost testosterone and improve sexual health and energy levels.
The science tells a different story. Tribulus terrestris can help men who have very low libido - one study found their sexual desire jumped 79% after taking 750–1,500 mg daily for two months. Yet its effect on testosterone levels remains up for debate. Research shows mixed results - only 9 out of 32 studies found any real increase in testosterone levels. The benefits vary a lot if you're an older man thinking about taking tribulus supplements. Your starting hormone levels play a big role in how well they might work. Knowing the right tribulus dosage becomes vital for older men, and they should watch out for side effects, especially with other health conditions.
This piece looks at how Tribulus terrestris and testosterone work together in men over 60. We'll break down what science says and separate the facts from myths about this popular herb.
What Is Tribulus Terrestris and Why Is It Popular for Tribulus Testosterone Support?
Tribulus terrestris is a small leafy plant that grows in warm regions of Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Middle East [1]. This thorny fruit-bearing herb goes by several names - puncture vine, caltrop, and goat's head. Over the last several years, it has become really popular among people looking for natural ways to balance hormones and improve sexual health.
Image source: wholefoodsmagazine
Traditional use in Ayurveda and Chinese medicine
TT has been a treasured part of traditional healing systems for thousands of years. Ayurvedic medicine knows it as Gokshura, and you'll find it mentioned in ancient texts like the Charaka Samhita from around 400 BCE [2]. The old Indian healers used it to treat infertility, impotence, erectile dysfunction, and low libido [2].
Chinese medicine has a long history of using both TT's fruits and roots. The plant earned its spot in China's oldest pharmaceutical guide, 'Shen Nong Ben Cao Jing,' where they ranked it as a top-grade medicine [2]. Chinese healers recommended it as a kidney tonic, diuretic, and remedy for everything from coughs to headaches [2].
Greek medicine also valued TT. Dioscorides wrote about its benefits as a diuretic when boiled in wine [2]. Iranian healers called it "Khara" and used it to treat bladder stones and urinary problems [2].
TT's effects come from these key components:
-
Steroidal saponins (especially protodioscin)
-
Flavonoids (quercetin, kaempferol, and isorhamnetin)
-
Alkaloids
Modern claims about testosterone and libido
TT extract became a hit in Western countries during the early 1980s as a supposed testosterone booster, libido enhancer, and adaptogenic aid [3]. The supplement really took off after word spread that Bulgarian weightlifters were using it to boost their performance [4].
These days, TT marketing focuses on two main claims:
-
Athletes can use it to improve performance (mentioned on 61.46% to 76.12% of promotional websites) [5]
-
Men can take it to boost hormone levels and sexual function (found on 44.60% of webpages) [5]
The buzz around TT comes from its steroidal saponins, which supposedly kick-start testosterone production through several pathways [4]. Companies claim these compounds can trigger your body's natural testosterone and luteinizing hormone production, which helps build muscle [4].
All the same, research tells a different story. Studies of men and women of various ages and health conditions show that TT doesn't actually raise testosterone levels in healthy humans [1].
Why men over 60 are interested in TT
TT looks promising to older men dealing with age-related hormone changes. Men's testosterone starts dropping between ages 30-40, and their free testosterone goes down about 2-3% each year [6]. This means about 20-50% of older men end up with low testosterone [6].
Male hypogonadism has become more common worldwide, affecting between 10-40% of men based on how it's diagnosed [7]. This condition doesn't just cause energy loss, fatigue, and reduced physical ability - it also leads to erectile dysfunction, which can really affect a man's health [7].
Many men over 60 turn to TT to help with these issues. One study showed good results: men over 60 with erectile dysfunction and low testosterone (280-350 ng/dl) who took 450 mg of TT daily for 30 days saw their testosterone levels go up and their ED improve, especially if it was mild or moderate [5].
The results look good for older men with low sex drive too. Research shows that men who took 750-1,500 mg of TT daily for two months saw their sexual desire jump up by 79% [1]. Women with low libido also reported better sexual desire, arousal, and satisfaction [1].
Scientists still debate how TT works. Some research suggests it acts like a neurosteroid by boosting dehydroepiandrosterone levels and blocking gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which might improve sexual function even without raising testosterone [7]. Others think it might work by increasing nitric oxide production, which helps with erections by opening up blood vessels [7].
Men looking into natural remedies for male andropause or andropause-related erectile dysfunction should know that scientists are still studying whether TT really works as well as traditional medicine claims it does.
How Tribulus Terrestris is believed to work
Image source: Healthline
The complex biochemistry of the tribulus plant helps us understand how it affects testosterone. Scientists have discovered several ways that Tribulus terrestris (TT) affects hormonal function and sexual health in men.
Role of steroidal saponins
TT's biological activity comes from its steroidal saponins, specifically protodioscin and protogracillin [2]. These compounds and flavonoids are the most important metabolites in the plant [2]. Research shows these saponins interact with androgen receptors in the brain. This creates a feedback loop that gets the body to produce more testosterone [2].
Protodioscin, the most studied compound in TT, helps increase how much testosterone converts to dihydrotestosterone (DHT) [2]. This conversion matters because DHT helps produce red blood cells and develop muscle [2][8]. This explains why some studies found that TT supplements boost exercise performance in overtraining rats. The treatment increased testosterone levels to about 150% of control groups [5].
These steroidal saponins work through multiple pathways:
-
Acting directly on androgen receptors
-
Increasing dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) levels
-
Possibly blocking aromatase, which stops oestrogen production [2]
The DHEA conversion pathway stands out because DHEA can boost cell membrane integrity and function. This leads to better sexual performance [9]. Studies in Bulgaria showed that regular TT extract consumption improves erection quality. The effects worked best in people who already had hormonal imbalances [9].
Impact on luteinizing hormone (LH)
TT affects the endocrine system through the anterior pituitary gland. It may trigger the release of luteinizing hormone (LH) [3]. This mechanism explains many claims about tribulus testosterone effects since LH regulates testosterone production in the testes [2].
The process starts when TT's saponins make the pituitary release more LH [2]. The extra LH then tells the testes to blend additional testosterone [2]. Research on this pathway shows mixed results though. Animal studies showed that taking TT improved LH levels by a lot [8]. Human clinical trials haven't shown such consistent results [8].
Research on opioid users revealed something interesting. TT could fight against the drop in sex hormones and gonadotropins caused by morphine addiction [10]. This suggests tribulus terrestris might help men with hormone deficiencies more than those with normal hormone levels.
Nitric oxide and blood flow effects
TT affects erectile function through nitric oxide (NO) mechanisms beyond hormonal pathways [5]. This explains the tribulus libido effects that happen regardless of testosterone levels [5].
TT boosts nitric oxide production, which makes blood vessels wider [5]. This especially helps erectile function by increasing blood flow to genital tissues [3]. The process involves relaxing the corpus cavernosum through reactions in the nitric oxide/NO synthase pathway [8].
Animal studies have shown TT's effects on erections. Researchers saw better erections in rabbit corpora cavernosa after 8 weeks of treatment [1]. Studies in rats showed that regular TT intake improved erections due to increased genital blood pressure. The effects improved by 25-55% in castrated rats [9].
Studies on tribulus supplements highlight this two-part action - both hormonal and vascular. This helps explain how TT might benefit men with mild erectile dysfunction or low libido [1]. That's why some studies show better IIEF scores (International Index of Erectile Function) even without measuring higher testosterone levels [1].
Elderly men thinking about tribulus dosage might see benefits beyond just testosterone increases. This works especially well for those with reduced blood flow or mild erectile dysfunction linked to andropause.
What the science says about testosterone and TT
Research paints a different picture of tribulus testosterone effects, despite its popularity as a natural testosterone booster. Clinical studies reveal some interesting facts about who might benefit from this supplement and when.
Studies showing no significant testosterone increase
Science tells us that Tribulus terrestris (TT) supplements don't boost testosterone in most men. In fact, eight out of ten studies found no real changes in androgen profiles after TT supplementation [5]. Several studies back this up:
-
Young adults showed no testosterone changes after four weeks of TT (10 or 20 mg/kg daily) [4]
-
Adults with idiopathic infertility saw no testosterone changes after three months of TT (750 mg daily) [4]
-
TT didn't change testosterone, cortisol, or testosterone/cortisol ratio in CrossFit athletes [11]
-
Rugby players saw no improvements in strength, body composition, or testosterone after taking 450 mg of TT daily for five weeks [4]
Animal studies show testosterone increases with TT, but these results don't carry over to humans [12]. The message is clear - men with normal hormone levels won't see much benefit from TT as a testosterone booster.
When TT may work: hypogonadism and low-T cases
TT shows promise in specific groups, especially men with diagnosed hypogonadism or low testosterone. Two studies found modest increases in total testosterone (60–70 ng/dL) in men with hypogonadism [5].
Ageing males with partial androgen deficiency and erectile dysfunction saw better results. Their testosterone levels went up after three months of daily TT supplements [13]. The International Index of Erectile Function scores jumped from 10.7 to 16.1 after treatment [13].
Men with normal hormone levels won't benefit much from TT. However, it might help those dealing with age-related testosterone decline or clinical hypogonadism. This explains why natural remedies for male andropause often list TT as an option for andropause erectile dysfunction.
Comparison with other herbal testosterone boosters
Other herbal testosterone boosters work better than TT. A detailed review found that only fenugreek seed extracts and ashwagandha root/leaf extracts reliably boost testosterone in men [7].
Men with infertility or subfertility saw their serum total testosterone rise by 100 ng/dL on average with ashwagandha [6]. Fenugreek also shows promise in boosting free testosterone and bioavailable testosterone [6].
Only 9 out of 32 studies on herbal supplements showed real increases in testosterone [7]. This shows that natural remedies for andropause vary in how well they work.
Older men looking at tribulus dosage options should try different approaches. They might get better results by combining lifestyle changes with supplements based on their hormone levels and symptoms, rather than relying on tribulus alone.
Tribulus and libido: separating fact from fiction
Image source: Cell Press
The most intriguing aspect of Tribulus terrestris research lies in how differently it affects libido versus hormone levels. Clinical studies have showed TT can boost sexual function even when testosterone levels stay the same.
Improved sexual desire vs hormone levels
TT supplements can substantially boost libido without changing hormone levels. Men with low sex drives saw a 79% boost in sexual desire after taking 750–1,500 mg of TT daily for two months [12]. The results were promising for women too - all but one of these women with very low libidos reported better sexual desire after taking 500–1,500 mg for 90 days [12].
These findings become even more fascinating because they happen without any rise in testosterone levels. The sort of thing I love about TT, as I wrote in the natural remedies for male andropause page, is how it works beyond simple hormone changes.
IIEF-5 scores and erectile function outcomes
Doctors use the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-5) questionnaire as their gold standard to evaluate male sexual performance. Studies of all sizes show TT supplements raise these scores consistently.
Research shows TT raised IIEF-5 scores by 4.21 points on average compared to starting levels [14]. TT worked better than placebo pills too, with scores 3.23 points higher [14]. These improvements prove real benefits rather than just placebo effects.
A study of older men with partial androgen deficiency showed a clear link between testosterone levels (both total and free) and IIEF-5 scores after taking TT [15]. This matters a lot for men dealing with andropause erectile dysfunction.
Why libido may improve even without testosterone changes
Scientists were puzzled by how TT could boost libido without changing testosterone. Recent studies point to several possible reasons:
-
Neurosteroid effects: TT's saponins work directly as neurosteroids. They raise DHEA levels and block gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which helps sexual function regardless of testosterone [5].
-
Nitric oxide pathway: TT helps make more nitric oxide, which relaxes blood vessels and penile tissue to improve erectile function [5].
-
Direct tissue effects: Active compounds in TT might work right on sexual tissues, without involving hormones.
Older men should think over their tribulus dosage options with these findings in mind. Benefits might come through these alternative pathways. As noted on the natural remedies for andropause page, TT supplements are a great way to get better sexual function even if they don't boost testosterone.
Effective dosage and quality considerations for older men
Men over 60 who want to try tribulus supplements need the right dosage and quality to get results. Research gives us clear guidelines about what works best for this age group.
Common dosage ranges (400–1500 mg/day)
Most clinical studies use daily tribulus testosterone doses between 750–1,500 mg. The standard dose is 750 mg/day [1]. Research teams have tested 750-1200 mg daily over 12-week periods [2]. Some studies used smaller amounts of 500–750 mg/day for 4–8 weeks [16]. The right amount depends on how concentrated the extract is and personal factors like your weight.
Traditional Ayurvedic powder forms (churna) use 3–6 g daily. You mix it with warm water or milk and take it before meals [16]. This is different from today's commercial extracts that pack more active compounds into smaller doses.
Importance of saponin content (45–60%)
Saponins are the compounds that make tribulus terrestris work for men. Quality supplements should have 45–60% saponins [12]. This percentage shows how strong the supplement is—a vital detail when you're buying.
The type of saponins matters just as much as the percentage. The best extracts contain specific compounds like protodioscin and prototribestin [8]. Higher saponin percentages mean you need smaller doses because the supplement is stronger [12]. One study had people take 500 mg of extract with 225 mg of furostanol saponins three times each day [1].
Tribulus dosage elderly: what's safe and effective?
Older men need special attention when picking the right dose. Research shows tribulus supplements are likely safe at 750-1500 mg daily for up to 90 days [2]. Here's a simple weight-based guide:
-
60kg individuals: about 500mg of 60% extract daily
-
70kg individuals: around 580mg of 60% extract daily
-
80kg individuals: close to 670mg of 60% extract daily [10]
You need extra care if you have kidney problems, especially if you get dehydrated easily [16]. Since we don't know much about using it beyond 90 days, older men should take breaks between supplement cycles.
Standardisation and supplement quality issues
Quality problems are systemic in tribulus supplements. Where it comes from matters a lot—Bulgarian and Turkish extracts usually have more protodioscin [10]. "Tribestan" from SOPHARMA set the standard as the first standardised product [8].
The quality of extracts can vary widely between brands. Products with similar labels might work differently [8]. How manufacturers prepare the extract affects both its strength and safety. Look for products that list their saponin content and follow good manufacturing standards [17].
Talk to healthcare providers who know about herbal medicine before mixing tribulus with other natural remedies for male andropause or using it for andropause erectile dysfunction.
Who may benefit most—and who should avoid it
Image Source: Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Centre
Research shows some groups of men get better results from Tribulus terrestris supplements, while others need to be careful before trying this herbal remedy.
Men with mild ED or low libido
Men who have mild to moderate erectile dysfunction respond best to TT supplements. Studies show that men's sexual desire increased by 79% when they took 750–1,500 mg daily for two months [12]. This benefit works better for people who already have sexual dysfunction rather than healthy individuals looking for enhancement.
Clinical evidence reveals that TT oral therapy helps patients with mild ED, and their lab test results stay normal [18]. The improvements in sexual function prove valuable for men who need natural remedies for male andropause.
Men with diagnosed hypogonadism
TT supplements work better for men who have partial androgen deficiency. A pilot study of ageing males with partial androgen deficiency and erectile dysfunction showed better testosterone levels and erectile function after taking TT supplements [19]. Men who have low testosterone levels get better results than those with normal hormone levels.
TT could help as a complementary treatment among other natural remedies for andropause if you have andropause erectile dysfunction.
When to avoid: kidney issues, medications, or high expectations
TT isn't right for everyone. You should avoid it if:
-
You have kidney concerns: Young male patients with no previous kidney disease have suffered severe nephrotoxicity from acute tubular necrosis linked to TT use [20]
-
You take certain medications: TT might cause dangerous blood sugar drops with diabetes medications [2] and affect blood pressure medications [21]
-
You're having surgery: Stop TT at least two weeks before scheduled surgery because it can affect blood sugar and blood pressure [2]
Pregnant women should never use tribulus since animal research suggests it could harm foetal development [2].
Conclusion
Tribulus terrestris paints an interesting picture for men over 60 who want natural testosterone support. Many companies market it as a testosterone booster, but science shows its effects change by a lot based on each person's situation. Men diagnosed with hypogonadism or very low testosterone levels might see small benefits. Those with normal hormone levels usually don't see any change in their testosterone.
Notwithstanding that, TT can boost sexual function and libido whatever the hormonal changes. These benefits probably come from other factors like neurosteroid effects and better nitric oxide production rather than direct testosterone increases. So men with mild erectile dysfunction or lower sex drive might find this herbal supplement helpful, even if their hormones don't change.
You need to think about dosage and quality to get the best results. Most people see benefits with 750-1500 mg daily, and the saponin content should be 45-60%. The quality of supplements varies a lot between manufacturers. You'll need standardised products with verified saponin profiles to get consistent results.
Safety comes first with tribulus supplements. Men should be extra careful if they have kidney problems or take diabetes or blood pressure medications. It's also important to keep expectations realistic. Tribulus works best as part of a comprehensive approach to andropause erectile dysfunction. It's not a miracle cure.
Men learning about natural remedies for andropause can think about tribulus as one of many helpful herbs. Before starting supplements, you should weigh your health factors, talk to healthcare providers, and understand what you want for your sexual health and vitality. Tribulus terrestris ended up offering modest but helpful benefits for specific men over 60, especially those with mild sexual dysfunction or low testosterone levels.
Key Takeaways
Scientific evidence reveals that Tribulus terrestris works differently than commonly marketed, offering specific benefits for certain men over 60 whilst requiring realistic expectations about its limitations.
• Tribulus doesn't boost testosterone in healthy men—only 9 out of 32 studies showed significant increases, primarily in those with diagnosed hypogonadism or very low baseline levels.
• Sexual function improvements occur independently of hormone changes—men experienced 79% increased libido through neurosteroid effects and enhanced nitric oxide production rather than testosterone elevation.
• Optimal dosing requires 750-1500mg daily with 45-60% saponin content for 8-12 weeks, with quality varying dramatically between manufacturers and extraction methods.
• Men with mild erectile dysfunction or diagnosed low testosterone benefit most, whilst those with kidney issues or taking diabetes/blood pressure medications should avoid supplementation.
• Tribulus works best as part of comprehensive andropause management rather than a standalone testosterone replacement, offering modest but genuine improvements in sexual desire and erectile function for specific populations.
For men over 60 experiencing age-related sexual health changes, tribulus terrestris represents a potentially useful tool when properly matched to individual circumstances, realistic expectations, and appropriate medical oversight.
FAQs
Q1. Can Tribulus terrestris boost testosterone levels in older men? While Tribulus terrestris is often marketed as a testosterone booster, scientific evidence shows it doesn't significantly increase testosterone in most men. However, it may provide modest benefits for those with diagnosed hypogonadism or very low testosterone levels.
Q2. How does Tribulus terrestris improve sexual function without increasing testosterone? Tribulus terrestris can enhance sexual function through alternative mechanisms, such as neurosteroid effects and increased nitric oxide production. These pathways can improve libido and erectile function independently of testosterone levels.
Q3. What is the recommended dosage of Tribulus terrestris for men over 60? The most common effective dosage range is 750-1500 mg daily, with a saponin content of 45-60%. However, the optimal dose may vary based on individual factors and extract quality. It's best to consult a healthcare provider for personalised advice.
Q4. Are there any risks associated with taking Tribulus terrestris supplements? While generally considered safe for most people, Tribulus terrestris can pose risks for those with kidney issues or those taking medications for diabetes or blood pressure. It's important to consult a healthcare professional before starting supplementation, especially if you have pre-existing health conditions.
Q5. How long does it take to see effects from Tribulus terrestris supplementation? The timeframe for experiencing effects can vary, but most studies use supplementation periods of 8-12 weeks. Some men may notice improvements in libido or erectile function within this timeframe, though individual responses can differ.
References
[1] - https://examine.com/supplements/tribulus-terrestris/?srsltid=AfmBOortkwl71n5aiK2EYwPfiH01Ea89z1blIW-GYrlhyDLhoY0VOUFG
[2] - https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-39/tribulus
[3] - https://www.droracle.ai/articles/61858/what-is-the-mechanism-of-action-of-tribulus-terrestris
[4] - https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4120469/
[5] - https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11990417/
[6] - https://www.liebertpub.com/doi/full/10.1089/andro.2022.0007
[7] - https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8166567/
[8] - https://ekubergpharma.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/07/tribulus-terrestris-candida.pdf
[9] - https://vemoherb.com/de/tribulus-terrestris-the-effect-over-reproductive-and-sexual-performance/
[10] - https://vilgain.co.uk/tribulus-terrestris-what-it-is-effects-and-dosage?srsltid=AfmBOorewVmtHc5pp7DGh9oykc76GZIxj-i4LfkmWoyZyZV2okraNnha
[11] - https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/17/7/1275
[12] - https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/tribulus-terrestris
[13] - https://www.urotoday.com/recent-abstracts/men-s-health/androgen-deficiency/107496-tribulus-terrestris-versus-placebo-in-the-treatment-of-erectile-dysfunction-and-lower-urinary-tract-symptoms-in-patients-with-late-onset-hypogonadism-a-placebo-controlled-study.html
[14] - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40360723/
[15] - https://www.urotoday.com/recent-abstracts/men-s-health/androgen-deficiency/80180-pilot-study-on-the-effect-of-botanical-medicine-tribulus-terrestris-on-serum-testosterone-level-and-erectile-function-in-ageing-males-with-partial-androgen-deficiency-padam-abstract.html
[16] - https://ask-ayurveda.com/wiki/article/6047-tribulus-terrestris--gokshura
[17] - https://www.nowfoods.com/healthy-living/articles/more-about-tribulus
[18] - https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0378512216302973
[19] - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30253697/
[20] - https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11315611/
[21] - https://www.medicinenet.com/is_tribulus_terrestris_good_for_you_side_effects/article.htm
