Tribulus terrestris – “Puncture Vine”

Also Known As: Goathead, Bullhead, Caltrop, Cat’s Head, Devil’s Eyelashes, Devil’s Thorn, Devil’s Weed, Tackweed, Bindii, Burra Gokharu, Gokshura, Sarrata
Family: Caltrop (Zygophyllaceae)
Bloom Period: Jun-Oct
Form: Perennial herb
Habitat: Human-disturbed areas
Leaves: Twice pinnately-compound; opposite
Translation: “Tribulus” is Latin for “three-pointed” and is also the word for “caltrop.” Caltrops were three-spiked iron balls that were strewn over a battlefield to impede soldiers and horses. Fruits of plants in this genus have three sharp prongs and resemble the caltrop. “terrestris” is Latin and translates contextually as “low to the ground,” which describes the plant’s growth habit.
Notes: Three-pronged seeds are spread by whatever and whomever they get stuck in, from shoes and automobile tires to feet, hooves and fur. Painful when they penetrate the flesh and able to literally puncture bicycle tires. Seeds remain viable for at least seven years. Not native to the Americas, but spread rapidly after introduction due to the above characteristics. Claims have been made that Puncture Vine boosts testosterone, and thereby muscle mass, but controlled studies have failed to demonstrate this. Don’t believe the hype. Ayurvedic medicine, which refers to the plant as Gokshura or Sarrata, uses it support healthy reproductive and urinary tract function.
Native American Uses: The Navajo used this plant as a traditional ceremonial medicine.