A Systematic Medico Historical Review of Gokshura (Tribulus terrestris L.): A Traditional Indian Medicine

Abstract

Objective: This review aims to reveal the classic and experience-based traditional uses of Gokshura for health and wellness, and emphasizes the pharmacological and biochemical scientific evidence to confirm them. Data Source: The available literature on Gokshura from original Ayurvedic scriptures, classical Ayurvedic texts from different periods, Indian Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia, and scientific databases such as ScienceDirect, PubMed, and Google Scholar, with Gokshura and T.terrestris as keywords were  searched to determine the basis of the Latin scientific name, the correct identity, properties, pharmacological actions and clinical uses. Review Methods: In search of scientific evidence of use, international and national journals and other published materials were also searched to pique the curiosity of academics interested in Ayurvedic medicinal plants. This article reveals the ancient brilliance behind the therapeutic use of a promising plant, Gokshura from ancient India, to date. Several bioactive phytoconstituents, which include steroids, saponin, flavonoids, alkaloids, glycosides, and unsaturated acids, were isolated and recognized from Gokshura which might be responsible singly or in compound form for numerous pharmacological activities, and traditional application confirms that the basic principles of available Ayurvedic classics in various periods in India have been too scientific, and authentic. Conclusion: In this research work, it was found that Gokshura overcome diseases of Mutravaha srotasa (Urinary Tract Disorders) and other systems. Various simple and compound preparations can reasonably maintain health and are used as analgesic, diuretic, anti-inflammatory, aphrodisiac, and rejuvenator.