Abstract

TRIBULUS TERRESTRIS: AN AYURVEDIC HERB WITH PHYTOCHEMICAL BOOSTER

Lakshya Dharamdasani*, Dr. Nirmala Gupta, Kriti Rai, Pallavi Nair and Prerna Bodhankar

ABSTRACT

In modern times the use of Ayurvedic herbs seems to be increased with physiological responses. One such plant species Tribulus terrestris isolated from nature has proved to be promising drug for treatment of various diseases. Tribulus terrestris commonly called as “puncture vine” or “Gokshur” has been in use since ages in Indian and Chinese system of medical treatment. It belongs to the family Zygophyllaceae and constitutes ample of chemical constituents which are of medicinal importance. TT, medicinal herb shows presence of biochemical compounds like flavonoids, steroidal saponins, and alkaloids. Being a therapeutic drug it is recommended for the treatment of male health. It is a common supplement used for boosting testosterone and as potent libido enhancer. It has diuretic, anti-urolithic, anti-diabetic, immunomodulatory and therapeutic properties as well. The methanolic and ethanol extract of the plant showed immense importance of this plant in medicine for its hepatoprotective, anti-carcinogenic, anti-helmintic and antibacterial properties have stood in times. In last few decades extensive research showed the importance of biological and pharmacology activities of Tribulus terrestris extract. This review article focuses on the physiochemical properties of plant and its wide range effect on anti-oxidative or anti-bactericidal proving it as value added utility drug.

Keywords: Tribulus terrestris; Phytochemical; Alkaloids; Flavonoids; Glycosides; Steroidal