Tribulus Terrestris Extract

Tribulus Terrestris Extract is derived from Tribulus terrestris L., a member of the Zygophyllaceae family. The plant contains a diverse range of secondary metabolites, of which steroidal saponins are particularly characteristic. Important compounds reported from the plant include protodioscin, protogracillin, tribulosin, diosgenin-related saponins, tribulosaponin B and other furostanol and spirostanol glycosides. Flavonoids such as rutin, kaempferol and quercetin derivatives have also been identified.

The chemical profile of Tribulus varies considerably according to plant part, geographical origin, extraction process and cultivar/source material. A classic analytical study found large differences in protodioscin content between raw materials and commercial products, demonstrating why standardized extracts are preferable for consistent B2B supply.

For standardized commercial material, 40% Total Steroidal Saponins is a well-established grade. Current commercial technical specifications also show 40% saponin extracts made from dried fruit. Other commercial grades of 60%, 80% and 90% total saponins are also available, but these should be treated as separate grades rather than assumed for a generic Tribulus extract.

In cosmetic applications, Tribulus terrestris fruit extract is recognized for skin conditioning, and fruit-derived extracts are used as botanical ingredients in skin-care formulation.