Latin Name : Tribulus terrestrisLinn. (Zygophyllaceae)
Sanskrit/Indian name : Gokshura, Gokhru
Urdu Name : Gokhru Khurd
General information :
Land Caltrops has been used for centuries as a general tonic by the Ancient Greeks. It is used in Ayurvedic medicine to maintain efficient kidney and urinary functions and in reducing renal discomfort. 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. Land Caltrops has also been described as an aphrodisiac in Ayurveda.
Recent research has shown that Land Caltrops has analgesic properties. The herb is also a nervine tonic and rejuvenative.
Therapeutic constituents :
The plant contains saponins, which, after hydrolysis, yield the sapogenins diosgenin, gitogenin, chlorogenin, ruscogenin, 25D-spirosta-3 and 5-diene, among others. The seeds contain the carboline alkaloids harmane and harmine. Harmol is also found in the herb. These constituents render the herb its therapeutic properties.
Key therapeutic benefits :
- The extracts of this herb are useful in treating low libido and erectile dysfunction.
- The herb is also used to treat kidney dysfunction, urinary disorders and diseases of the genito-urinary system.
