Gokshura

Gokshura (Tribulus terrestris Linn.) is a very reverend herb of the Indian Ayurvedic system of medicine for treatment of various kinds of diseases. Its name is derived from two sanskrit words; ‘Go’ meaning cow and ‘Aakshura’ meaning hoof, as the fruits of this plant resemble the hooves of cows. Tribulus terrestris extract is widely used as a traditional curable medicine used by  several nations such as China, European nations, and America.

 Ayurvedic Action

Health Benefits

Aphrodisiac activity

Tribulus Terrestris has more potential than Aswagandha and Kappikachu. All three drugs are good enhancers of sexual  function and behavior by increasing the testosterone  levels.

Support urinary system

It is effective in treating urinary tract disorders because it promotes the flow of urine and cools and soothes the membranes of the urinary tract. It is used in ayurvedic medicine to maintain efficient kidney and urinary function and in reducing renal discomfort.

Gokshura and Healthy heart

Gokshura contains a saponin called tribulosin which helps in maintaining a healthy heart. Tribulosin helps in widening narrowed arteries thereby improving blood circulation to the heart. This might help lower the risk of coronary heart disease as well as the pain and discomfort associated with it.

Gokshura for erectile dysfunction

Saponins present in Gokshura helps in managing erectile dysfunction as it strengthens the penile tissue and enhances penile erection.

Gokshura for muscle building

Gokshura supplementation can increase testosterone as well as muscle power because of its biologically active chemical compounds such as alkaloids (saponins) and glycosides

Gokshura and uric acid 

Gokshura helps to reduce the level of uric acid due to its Mutral (diuretic) property which increases the urine output and helps flush the toxins from the body.

Gokshura and blood pressure

Gokshura has diuretic activity and helps the body get rid of extra salts and water thus controlling blood pressure. Gokshura can be taken by patients with mild to moderate hypertension mainly associated with fluid retention. A recent study also said that Gokshura minimizes systolic pressure, diastolic pressure, mean arterial pressure and improves heart rate

Gokshura and PCOS

Gokshura is considered to be useful for Polycystic ovary syndrome. Some of the symptoms of PCOS are enlarged ovaries, excess male hormone and absence of ovulation. Gokshura contains certain elements which might help in the management of ovarian health and might improve the levels of hormones which are responsible for ovulation and fertility.

Useful part- Dried fruit

Dosage and side effects (only after consultation with an ayurvedic doctor).

Dosage - Gokshura Churna - ¼-½ teaspoon, twice a day.

Always take Gokshura in the recommended dose or duration as a high dose can lead to stomach upset and diarrhea .

References:

1. Sandeep PM, Bovee TF, Sreejith K. Anti-Androgenic Activity of Nardostachys jatamansi DC and Tribulus terrestris L. and Their Beneficial Effects on Polycystic Ovary Syndrome-Induced Rat Models. Metab Syndr Relat Disord. 2015;13(6):248-54.
2. Jamil M, Akhtar AJ, Abuzar A, et al, Ennus Pharmacological scientific evidence for the promise of Tribulus terrestris IRJP.2012;3:403-406.
3. Arentz S, Abbott JA, Smith CA, et al. Herbal medicine for the management of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and associated oligo/amenorrhoea and hyperandrogenism; a review of the laboratory evidence for effects with corroborative clinical findings. BMC Complement Altern Med. 2014;14:511.
4. The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India.Part 1 Volume 1.