Effect of aqueous extract of Tribulus terrestris on the activity of major platelets factors and the treatment of immune thrombocytopenic purpura

Idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP), an autoimmune disease with decreased platelet counts needs corticosteroids, intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg), and anti-Rho in the first line and splenectomy, rituximab, and thrombopoietin in the second line of therapy. The present study reveals the application of the aqueous extract Tribulus terrestris (T. terrestris) plant in ITP treatment.  A standard aqueous extract of T. terrestris was given orally to twenty patients who were newly diagnosed with ITP in the form of 500 mg capsules (three times per day for14 days). Blood samples were taken from patients before, during, and after two weeks of treatment to count plasma Platelet Factor 4 (PF4), serotonin factor, and Von Willebrand Factor (VWF). We observed a significant increase in the platelet count among all patients, while plasma platelets and assay factor 4 decreased and VWF increased during and after treatment. Serotonin was increased on days 1 and 14 and slightly decreased once the treatment was completed.  Our findings suggest that T. terrestris extract can be considered an efficient alternative medicine for the treatment of ITP.