Gokhru (Gokshura)
Synopsis of gokhru
Gokhru, also spelled Gokshura, refers to Tribulus terrestris, a small, flowering plant found in India, the Mediterranean, and parts of Asia and Africa. The fruits and roots of the plant are used medicinally and are rich in saponins (especially protodioscin), flavonoids, alkaloids, and sterols. In both Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), gokhru is renowned as a rejuvenating herb for the urinary, reproductive, and musculoskeletal systems.
In modern herbal medicine, gokhru is most widely known as a natural testosterone and libido booster, commonly used in men’s health formulas to enhance sexual vitality, athletic performance, and muscle tone. While it may not directly increase testosterone in healthy individuals, protodioscin is believed to influence androgen receptor sensitivity and improve sperm quality and libido.
Beyond reproductive support, gokhru is highly regarded for its diuretic and anti-inflammatory properties, making it a traditional remedy for urinary tract infections, kidney stones, painful urination, and water retention. It also supports joint health, heart function, and stamina, and is used as a general tonic to boost energy and vitality.
Gokhru is typically consumed as powder, capsules, decoctions, or in polyherbal formulations targeting reproductive, renal, or musculoskeletal balance.
Historical Use
In Ayurveda, gokhru is classified as a Rasayana (rejuvenative) herb and is especially revered for its ability to balance all three doshas, particularly Vata and Pitta. It is often used to support Shukra dhatu (reproductive tissue), and classical texts describe its use in treating impotence, urinary obstruction, kidney disorders, and joint pain. It is a key ingredient in famous formulations like Dashamoola and Chandraprabha Vati, where it supports both structural and reproductive health.
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, Tribulus terrestris (called Bai Ji Li) is used more for its Liver channel activity, helping to calm the liver, disperse wind, and brighten the eyes. It is used in formulas to address headaches, dizziness, eye irritation, and itching skin, showing a broader energetic application than in Ayurveda.
Across the Middle East and Europe, the plant was also used in folk medicine for enhancing sexual health, soothing urinary tract inflammation, and reducing edema, often prepared as an infusion or extract.
Today, gokhru continues to be a popular adaptogenic and reproductive tonic, bridging ancient traditions with modern sports and urological health protocols, and is frequently featured in men’s vitality blends, kidney health formulas, and performance-enhancing supplements.
Gokhru is used for these health conditions
Diabetes (Traditional)
Kidney Stones (Traditional)
Urinary Tract Infections (Traditional)
gokhru is used to support these body systems
Bladder (Traditional)
Circulatory System (Traditional)
Glandular System (Traditional)
Heart (Traditional)
Immune System (Traditional)
Joints (Traditional)
Kidneys (Traditional)
Liver (Traditional)
Male Reproductive System (Traditional)
Prostate (Traditional)
Reproductive System (Traditional)
Urinary System (Traditional)
