Tribuloside is a flavonoid glycoside found in Tribulus terrestris, a plant used for centuries in traditional medicine, especially in Ayurvedic and Chinese systems, to support male sexual health and treat erectile dysfunction (ED). Historical records suggest its use as an aphrodisiac and a general tonic for enhancing libido and sexual performance. However, most traditional remedies use extracts of the whole plant or its fruit, not isolated tribuloside, and the precise role of tribuloside within these extracts is not well-defined.

Scientific evidence for tribuloside itself in treating ED is very limited. While some studies have examined the effects of Tribulus terrestris extracts on sexual function, results are mixed and often inconclusive. Most research focuses on saponins (such as protodioscin) rather than flavonoids like tribuloside. A few animal studies suggest possible benefits for sexual behavior or testosterone levels, but these do not isolate the effects of tribuloside, nor do they translate clearly to human clinical outcomes. No robust human trials have specifically evaluated tribuloside for ED.

In summary, the use of tribuloside for erectile dysfunction is primarily rooted in traditional herbal practices rather than in strong scientific validation. The direct evidence supporting tribuloside as an effective treatment for ED remains weak, with a lack of targeted clinical research and a reliance on broader traditional uses of the parent plant.