Ishan Ayurvedic Medical College & Research Centre
Gokshura (Puncture Vine)

Gokshura (Puncture Vine)

Tribulus terrestris is a small, herbaceous plant that is widely distributed in warm temperate and

Medicinal Plant

Gokshura (Puncture Vine)

Tribulus terrestris is a small, herbaceous plant that is widely distributed in warm temperate and

Tribulus terrestris is a small, herbaceous plant that is widely distributed in warm temperate and

Scientific Name

Tribulus terrestris

Family

Zygophyllaceae

Common Name

Puncture Vine

Gokshura
Gokshura medicinal plant
Gokshura medicinal plant
Botanical Description

About the Gokshura Plant

tropical regions.

Leaves: The leaves are small and pinnately compound, typically with multiple pairs of leaflets.

Flowers: The plant produces bright yellow flowers with five petals. The flowers are often solitary and

have a distinctive appearance.

Fruits: One of the most notable features of Tribulus terrestris is its spiky fruit, which consists of

several hard, woody nutlets. These nutlets have sharp, pointed spines that can stick to clothing or

animal fur, aiding in the plant's dispersal.

Ayurvedic Properties

Rasa · Guna · Virya · Vipaka

Gokshura (Tribulus terrestris) is a well-known herb in Ayurveda and is used for various purposes due to its Ayurvedic properties, tastes, and actions.: tastes is believed to have a cooling effect on the body. thought to help balance excess heat or pitta in the body. Benifites 1-Supports Reproductive Health: Gokshura is commonly used to support male reproductive health. It is believed to enhance sperm production, improve sperm quality, and promote healthy libido and sexual function. It is often used as a natural aphrodisiac. 2-Urinary Health: Gokshura is known for its diuretic properties, which may help promote healthy urinary function. It is used to flush out toxins from the urinary system and may assist in managing urinary tract infections. 3-Balances Hormones: Some studies suggest that Gokshura may help balance hormone levels, particularly in men. It may support the normal functioning of the endocrine system. 4-Strength and Stamina: Gokshura is considered a rejuvenating herb and is believed to enhance physical strength and stamina. Athletes and bodybuilders sometimes use it as a natural supplement to improve endurance and performance. 5-Adaptogenic Properties: Gokshura is considered an adaptogen, which means it may help the body adapt to stressors and support overall well-being. It may reduce the effects of stress on the body. 6-Anti-inflammatory: Some traditional uses of Gokshura suggest that it may have anti-inflammatory . It may be used to manage inflammation in conditions such as arthritis and joint pain. 7-Heart Health: There is some evidence to suggest that Gokshura may have a positive impact on heart health by helping to reduce cholesterol levels and supporting healthy blood pressure.

Rasa (Taste)

Rasa (Taste)

Gokshura is primarily known for its sweet and bitter taste. The combination of these

Gokshura is primarily known for its sweet and bitter taste. The combination of these

Virya (Potency)

Virya (Potency)

It is generally considered to have a cooling or cold potency. This cooling nature is

It is generally considered to have a cooling or cold potency. This cooling nature is

Vipaka (Post-digestive Taste)

Vipaka (Post-digestive Taste)

Gokshura is said to have a sweet vipaka, which means it can have a nourishing effect on the body after digestion

Gokshura is said to have a sweet vipaka, which means it can have a nourishing effect on the body after digestion

Guna (Quality)

Guna (Quality)

Snigdha (Oily), Guru (Heavy), Madhura (Sweet)

Snigdha (Oily), Guru (Heavy), Madhura (Sweet)

Karma (Actions)

Karma (Actions)

Balya, Vrishya Mutrala ,VataharaDosha Affinity

Balya, Vrishya Mutrala ,VataharaDosha Affinity

Chemical Composition

Phytochemical Constituents

Tribulus terrestris is known to contain a variety of chemical constituents, including:

Saponins: Tribulus terrestris is rich in saponins, which are glycosides with diverse biological

activities

Alkaloids: Small amounts of alkaloids may also be present in the plant.

Flavonoids: Tribulus terrestris contains various flavonoids, which are a class of polyphenolic

compounds known for their antioxidant properties.

Phytosterols: These plant compounds are similar in structure to cholesterol and are believed to have

various health benefits.

Terpenoids: Some terpenoid compounds have been identified in Tribulus terrestris

Contraindications & Caution

Pregnancy and Lactation: Gokshura's effects during pregnancy and breastfeeding are not wellstudied. Due to its potential hormonal effects, it is advisable for pregnant and breastfeeding women to avoid using Gokshura to prevent any potential adverse effects on hormone balance or fetal development.