A perennial, trailing thorny plant Tribulus is found growing widely in China, India and Vietnam. It also occurs in South Africa and Europe.

Traditionally the cylindrical roots and yellow globose fruits are used: the fruits mainly as an astringent, aperient, diuretic,and in urinary/bladder disorders and hepatitis. Also used for skin complaints.

Ethnoveterinary application: the whole plant including the fruit are used where ruminants suffer from urinary problems and dysentery.