Tribulus Terrestris for PCOS: Does It Help?
Quick Summary: A study found that a combination of lifestyle changes and herbal medicine, including Tribulus terrestris, helped overweight women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) have more regular periods. This combination also showed some improvements in weight and quality of life.
What The Research Found
The research showed that women with PCOS who combined lifestyle changes (like diet and exercise) with herbal medicine, including Tribulus terrestris, had a significant improvement in their menstrual cycles compared to those who only made lifestyle changes. This means they experienced fewer missed or irregular periods. The study also found some positive effects on weight and overall well-being.
Study Details
- Who was studied: 122 overweight women in Australia diagnosed with PCOS.
- How long: The study lasted for 3 months.
- What they took: All participants followed a personalized lifestyle plan. One group also took two herbal tablets daily. One of these tablets contained Tribulus terrestris, along with other herbs.
What This Means For You
If you have PCOS and are overweight, this research suggests that combining lifestyle changes with herbal medicine, including Tribulus terrestris, might help regulate your periods. It's important to remember:
- Lifestyle is Key: Lifestyle changes like diet and exercise are the foundation for managing PCOS.
- Talk to Your Doctor: Always discuss any supplements, including Tribulus terrestris, with your doctor before starting them. They can help you determine if it's safe and appropriate for you.
- Combined Approach: This study used Tribulus terrestris with other herbs. The benefits might be from the combination, not just Tribulus alone.
Study Limitations
It's important to keep these things in mind:
- Not Just Tribulus: The study used a mix of herbs, so we can't be sure how much of the effect was due to Tribulus terrestris alone.
- Short Study: The study only lasted 3 months. We don't know if the benefits would last longer.
- Specific Group: The study focused on overweight women with PCOS. The results might not be the same for everyone.
- More Research Needed: More studies are needed to confirm these findings and understand the specific effects of Tribulus terrestris.
Technical Analysis Details
Key Findings
The study found that combining lifestyle modification with herbal medicine (including Tribulus terrestris) significantly reduced oligomenorrhoea/amenorrhoea in overweight women with PCOS compared to lifestyle alone. At 3 months, the intervention group showed a 32.9% reduction (95% CI: 23.3–42.6, p < 0.01) in menstrual irregularities, with a large effect size (η). Secondary outcomes included modest improvements in BMI (−1.8 kg/m², p < 0.05), hirsutism scores, and quality of life. No significant differences in adverse events were reported between groups.
Study Design
This was a pragmatic, community-based randomized controlled trial (RCT) conducted in Australia. A total of 122 overweight women (BMI ≥ 25 kg/m²) with PCOS were randomized into two groups: lifestyle intervention alone (control) or lifestyle plus herbal medicine (intervention). The intervention lasted 3 months. Lifestyle plans were personalized, while herbal treatment involved two tablets daily.
Dosage & Administration
Tribulus terrestris was administered as Tablet 2 (1000 mg daily, standardized to 45% furostanolic saponins). Tablets were taken twice daily with meals. Tablet 1 contained a blend of Cinnamomum verum, Glycyrrhiza glabra, Hypericum perforatum, and Paeonia lactiflora.
Results & Efficacy
The primary outcome (oligomenorrhoea/amenorrhoea) improved significantly in the combination group (32.9% reduction, p < 0.01, 95% CI: 23.3–42.6). Secondary outcomes included reductions in BMI (−1.8 kg/m², p < 0.05) and depression scores, along with improved quality of life. Hormonal changes (e.g., lower testosterone) were observed but not quantified in the summary. No differences in pregnancy rates or safety markers were reported.
Limitations
The multi-herb formulation limits conclusions about Tribulus terrestris’ isolated effects. The study duration (3 months) was short, and long-term outcomes (e.g., sustained menstrual regularity) were not assessed. Self-reported menstrual data may introduce bias. The sample size (n=122) was moderate, and results may not generalize to non-overweight women or other populations.
Clinical Relevance
For overweight PCOS patients, adding Tribulus terrestris (with other herbs) to lifestyle interventions may enhance menstrual regularity and metabolic health. However, the lack of Tribulus-only data means its specific contribution remains unclear. Users should prioritize lifestyle changes as first-line therapy, while considering adjunct herbal treatments cautiously. Future research should isolate Tribulus’ effects and evaluate longer-term outcomes.
Note: The study evaluated Tribulus terrestris as part of a multi-herb regimen; results cannot be attributed solely to Tribulus. Always consult a healthcare provider before starting supplements for PCOS.
Original Study Reference
Combined Lifestyle and Herbal Medicine in Overweight Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): A Randomized Controlled Trial.
Source: PubMed
Published: 2017
📄 Read Full Study (PMID: 28685911)
