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Gokshura
Gokshura
Gokshura is a common invasive shrub and the name is derived from two Sanskrit words: Go means cow and Aakshura means hoof. Also, the fruits of this plant look very much similar to hooves of cows, with several little spines and lots of big thorns on them[2][3]. There are two varieties of Gokhshru: Chota Gokaharu and Bada Gokaharu, with different fruit size but similar medicinal benefits. Gokhshura is slightly bitter and astringent in taste and is widely used as an aphrodisiac to manage sexual disorders in males. Gokshura is also used to increase the GFR rate of the kidney, manage cough, skin pruritus, headache, vertigo and improve eye vision[2-6][22].
What are the synonyms of Gokshura?
Tribulus terrestris, Goksuraka, Trikanata, Small Caltrop, Devil’s thorn, Goat head, Puncture vine, Gokhru, Gokhuri, Gokshra, Sharatte, Palleruveru, Nerinjil, Betagokharu, Bhakhra, Gokharu, Neggilu, Gokhri, Michirkand, Khar-e-Khasak Khurd
What is the source of Gokshura?
Plant Based
Benefits of Gokshura
Modern Science View
Not enough scientific evidence is available to support the role of Gokshura in athletic performance.
Ayurvedic View
Gokshura enhances athletic performance by boosting your energy level and vitality due to its Guru (heavy) and Vrushya (aphrodisiac) properties.
Tips:
1. Take 1/4-1/2 teaspoon of Gokshura powder.
2. Mix with milk and drink it twice a day after taking food.
Tips:
1. Take 1/4-1/2 teaspoon of Gokshura powder.
2. Mix with milk and drink it twice a day after taking food.
Modern Science View
Saponins present in Gokshura helps in managing erectile dysfunction as it strengthens the penile tissue and enhances penile erection. In one of the studies, Gokshura extract showed a significant increase in ICP or intracavernous pressure (a physiological marker of erectile function)[5][6][17].
Ayurvedic View
Gokshura helps in boosting energy, vitality and also strengthens the penile tissue which enhances penile erection due to its Guru (heavy) and Vrishya (Aphrodisiac) properties. Together, this helps improve the symptoms of erectile dysfunction.
Modern Science View
Gokshura is considered as a potent aphrodisiac and might increase the sexual desire in men. Active phytochemicals present in Gokshura improves the level of testosterone as well as the overall quality and quantity of sperm. This might help control infertility problems in men[6][19][20].
Tip:
1. Boil 20 gm of Gokshura flowers in 250ml milk.
2. Strain and drink this every morning and evening.
Tip:
1. Boil 20 gm of Gokshura flowers in 250ml milk.
2. Strain and drink this every morning and evening.
Modern Science View
Studies state that Gokshura might be useful to manage prostate gland disorders such as benign prostatic hyperplasia. It also improves the urine flow and helps in the almost complete emptying of the bladder thus decreasing urine retention. This might lower the symptoms of prostate enlargement[6][18].
Tip:
1. Take two teaspoons of the fruit and grind coarsely.
2. Bring it to a boil in two cups of water until about half the water remains.
3. Drink 1 cup of this mixture.
4. You can also take it along with sugar and milk for a better taste.
Tip:
1. Take two teaspoons of the fruit and grind coarsely.
2. Bring it to a boil in two cups of water until about half the water remains.
3. Drink 1 cup of this mixture.
4. You can also take it along with sugar and milk for a better taste.
Ayurvedic View
Gokshura gives relief in benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) or enlarged prostate gland due to its Mutral (diuretic) and Sita (cold) properties. This helps to increase urine secretion and reduce the swelling and burning sensation during urination.
Modern Science View
Gokshura is said to improve libido in women who have a low sex drive. It also helps boost energy and vitality[6][21].
Ayurvedic View
Gokshura helps improve libido and boost vitality in both men and women due to its Vrishya (aphrodisiac) property.
Modern Science View
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[5][6][12].
Modern Science View
Gokshura might be useful for cancer as it induces apoptosis while leaving the non-cancerous cells unharmed. It also has anti-proliferative property and might reduce the growth of cancer cells[5][6].
Modern Science View
Not enough scientific evidence is available to support the role of Gokshura in flatulence.
Ayurvedic View
Gokshura helps improve digestion and gives relief from intestinal gas due to its Deepan (appetizer) property which helps to digest food easily and prevent gas formation in the intestine.
How effective is Gokshura?
Likely ineffective
Athletic performance
Insufficient evidence
Anemia, Benign prostatic hyperplasia, Cancer, Chest pain (Angina), Cough, Eczema, Erectile dysfunction, Flatulence (gas formation), Increasing sexual desire, Infertility
Precautions when using Gokshura
Advice from Experts
Modern Science View
Gokshura has a diuretic effect (increase urine flow). So it is advisable to use Gokshura with caution along with other drugs having a diuretic effect[16].
Breastfeeding
Modern Science View
It is advisable to avoid Gokshura during breastfeeding due to lack of evidence on its safety[6][15].
Patients with diabetes
Modern Science View
Gokshura may lower blood sugar level. So it is advised to monitor your blood sugar level while taking Gokshura along with anti-diabetic drugs[6].
Pregnancy
Important
Modern Science View
It is advisable to avoid Gokshura during pregnancy as it might induce abortion. An animal research also says that Gokshura might affect the functional development of the fetal brain[6][15].
Side Effects
Important
Modern Science View
1. Stomach pain
2. Nausea
3. Diarrhea
4. Vomiting
5. Constipation
6. Difficulty in sleeping[6].
2. Nausea
3. Diarrhea
4. Vomiting
5. Constipation
6. Difficulty in sleeping[6].
Ayurvedic View
Always take Gokshura in recommended dose or duration as a high dose can lead to stomach upset and diarrhea due to its Guru (heavy) nature.
Recommended Dosage of Gokshura
- Gokshura Churna - ¼-½ teaspoon, twice a day.
- Gokshura Tablet - 1-2 tablet, twice a day.
- Gokshura Capsule - 1-2 capsule, twice a day.
How to use Gokshura
1. Gokshura Churna
a. Take ¼-½ teaspoon of Gokshura Churna.
b. Mix it with honey or take it with milk, twice a day after meals.
2. Gokshura Tablet
a. Take 1-2 Gokshura Tablet.
b. Swallow it with water, after meals twice a day.
3. Gokshura Capsule
a. Take 1-2 Gokshura Capsule.
b. Swallow it with water, after meals twice a day.
4. Gokshura Kwath
a. Take 4-6 teaspoon of Gokshura Kwath.
b. Mix it with honey or water and take after meals twice a day.
a. Take ¼-½ teaspoon of Gokshura Churna.
b. Mix it with honey or take it with milk, twice a day after meals.
2. Gokshura Tablet
a. Take 1-2 Gokshura Tablet.
b. Swallow it with water, after meals twice a day.
3. Gokshura Capsule
a. Take 1-2 Gokshura Capsule.
b. Swallow it with water, after meals twice a day.
4. Gokshura Kwath
a. Take 4-6 teaspoon of Gokshura Kwath.
b. Mix it with honey or water and take after meals twice a day.
Benefits of Gokshura
Modern Science View
Not enough scientific evidence is available to support the role of Gokshura in eczema.
Ayurvedic View
Gokshura gives relief in skin problems like eczema, skin irritations, itching, and eruptions due to its Ropan (healing) property.
How effective is Gokshura?
Insufficient evidence
Eczema
Precautions when using Gokshura
Allergy
Modern Science View
1. Apply Gokshura to a small area first to test for possible allergic reaction.
2. People who are allergic to Gokshura or its constituents should use it only under doctor’s supervision.
2. People who are allergic to Gokshura or its constituents should use it only under doctor’s supervision.
Recommended Dosage of Gokshura
- Gokshura Powder - ½-1 teaspoon or as per your requirement.
How to use Gokshura
1. Gokshura with Rose Water
a. Take ¼-½ teaspoon of Gokshura paste or powder.
b. Mix it rose water and apply evenly on the face and neck.
c. Let it sit for 5-7 minutes.
d. Wash with tap water.
e. Use this remedy 2-3 times a week to get rid of skin ageing and dullness.
a. Take ¼-½ teaspoon of Gokshura paste or powder.
b. Mix it rose water and apply evenly on the face and neck.
c. Let it sit for 5-7 minutes.
d. Wash with tap water.
e. Use this remedy 2-3 times a week to get rid of skin ageing and dullness.
Frequently asked questions
Modern Science View
Himalayan Gokshura is an effective herbal medicine from the Himalaya Drug company. It contains Gokshura extract and is said to be effective for male sexual disorders.
Modern Science View
Gokshura can be easily found in Ayurvedic stores or online.
Modern Science View
One of the studies said that Gokshura supplementation can increase testosterone as well as muscle power because of its biologically active chemical compounds such as alkaloids (saponins) and glycosides[7].
Ayurvedic View
Gokshura is a popular supplement for aiding in bodybuilding as it helps to enhance your energy level and vitality due to its Guru (heavy) and Vrishya (aphrodisiac) properties.
Modern Science View
Saponin present in Gokshura has blood sugar lowering properties. It helps lower the level of serum glucose, serum triglyceride, and serum cholesterol due to its antioxidant property[5][8][9].
Ayurvedic View
Gokshura helps to control blood sugar level by removing toxins from the body due to its Mutral (diuretic) properties. It also helps to improve metabolism because of its Ama (toxic remains in the body due to improper digestion) removing nature which is responsible for high blood sugar level.
Modern Science View
Gokshura is said to have good antilithic activity. It not only helps in reducing the level of uric acid but also reduces the chances of hyperoxaluria (excessive urinary secretion of oxalate) which can lead to kidney stones. The antilithic activity is attributed to the potent protein biomolecules present in Gokshura[10].
Ayurvedic View
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. It also improves the metabolism because of its Ama (toxic remains in the body due to improper digestion) removing nature and inhibits excess production of uric acid.
Modern Science View
Gokshura might be good for kidney stones as it causes diuresis (excretion of excess salt and water) because of the presence of potassium and nitrates. It also facilitates the process of dissolving preformed kidney stones and increases the excretion of urea and uric acid[5][11].
Ayurvedic View
Gokshura reduces the risk of kidney stones due to its Mutral (diuretic) property which increases the urine output and helps flush the toxins from the urinary tract and kidneys. It also helps to improve metabolism because of its Ama (toxic remains in the body due to improper digestion) removing nature and inhibits the formation of kidney stones.
Modern Science View
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[5][13][14].
Ayurvedic View
Gokshura helps to maintain blood pressure due to its Mutral (diuretic) property which increases the urine output and helps flush the toxins and extra fluid from the body that are responsible for high blood pressure.
References
- The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia of India.Part 1 Volume 1.
- Metcalfe CR, Chalk L. The Anatomy of The Dicotyledons.Oxford: Clerendon Press; 1950;2:1013–4.
- Cooke T. The Flora of the Presidency of Bombay.Taylor and Francis.1903;2:337–8.
- Kevalia J, Patel B.Identification of fruits of Tribulus terrestris Linn. and Pedalium murex Linn.: A pharmacognostical approach.Ayu.2011;32(4):550–553.
- Chhatre S, Nesari T, Somani G, et al.Phytopharmacological overview of Tribulus terrestris.Pharmacogn Rev.2014;8(15):45–51.
- WebMD.Tribulus: Uses, Side effects, Doses, Interactions [Internet].Atlanta [last updated in 2016].
- Pokrywka A, Obmiński Z, Lenczowska JM, et al.Insights into supplements with Tribulus terrestris used by athletes.J Hum Kinet.2014;41:99–105.
- Samani NB, Jokar A, Soveid M, et al.Efficacy of Tribulus terrestris extract on the serum glucose and lipids of women with diabetes mellitus.Iran J Med Sci.2016;41(3):S5.
- Shahid M, Riaz M, Talpur MM, et al.Phytopharmacology of Tribulus terrestris.J Biol Regul Homeost Agents.2016;30(3):785-788.
- Aggarwal A, Tandon S, Singla SK, et al.A novel antilithiatic protein from Tribulus terrestris having cytoprotective potency.Protein Peptide Lett.2012;19(8):812–819.
- Kamboj P, Aggarwal M, Puri S, et al.Effect of aqueous extract of Tribulus terrestris on oxalate-induced oxidative stress in rats.Indian J Nephrol.2011;21(3):154–159.
- Samy RP, Pushparaj PN, Gopalakrishnakone P.A compilation of bioactive compounds from Ayurveda.Bioinformation.2008;3(3):100–110.
- Murthy AR,Dubey SD, Tripathi K.Anti-hypertensive effect of Gokshura (Tribulus terrestris Linn.) A clinical study.Anc Sci Lif.2000;19(3-4):139–145.
- Jiang YH, Guo JH, Wu S, et al.Vascular protective effects of aqueous extracts of Tribulus terrestris on hypertensive endothelial injury.Chin J Nat Med.2017;15(8):606-614.
- Walker D, Bird A, Flora T, et al.Some effects of feeding Tribulus terrestris, Ipomoea ionchophylla and the seed of Abelmoschus ficulneus on fetal development and the outcome of pregnancy in sheep.Reprod Fertil Dev.1992;4(2):135-44.
- Ulbricht CE.Natural Standard Herb & Supplement Guide.1st ed.2010.
- Do J, Choi S, Choi J, et al.Effects and mechanism of action of a Tribulus terrestris extract on penile erection.Korean J Urol.2013;54(3):183-8.
- Shrivastava A, Gupta VB.Various treatment options for benign prostatic hyperplasia: A current update.J Midlife Health. 2012;3(1):10–19.
- Sellandi TM, Thakar AB, Baghel MS.Clinical study of Tribulus terrestris Linn. in oligozoospermia: A double blind study.Ayu.2012;33(3):356–364.
- Balkrishna A.Secrets of Indian Herbs For Good Health.Divya Prakashan.1st ed.2008.
- Akhtari E, Raisi F, Keshavarz M, et al.Tribulus terrestris for treatment of sexual dysfunction in women: Randomized double-blind placebo - Controlled study.Daru. 2014;22(1):40.
- Balkrishnan A.Ashwagandha.Ayurved Jadi Buti Rehsya.Danik Bhaskar.2017.
Disclaimer
The content is purely informative and educational in nature and should not be construed as medical advice. Please use the content only in consultation with an appropriate certified medical or healthcare professional.