More and more people, especially men, are looking for herbal supplements such as Tongkat Ali to improve their bodybuilding, health, male infertility, and erectile dysfunction.
This article aims to provide an in-depth exploration of over ten benefits of Tongkat Ali, the effective ways to use it, its potential side effects and dosage.
Before exploring further, please read the disclaimer located at the end of this webpage.
Key Takeaways
- Tongkat ali, also known as Eurycoma longifolia or Longjack, is a renowned herb originating from Southeast Asia, commonly used in traditional medicine.
- Tongkat ali is believed to naturally boost testosterone levels in men, thereby enhancing energy, mood, athletic performance, body composition, and sexual performance.
- Tongkat ali is considered safe when taken at a dosage of 50-200mg daily.
- However, some side effects, such as cytotoxic effects and DNA damage, may occur.
- Individuals with prostate cancer, hormonal cancers, heart disease, kidney disease, or weakened immune systems should exercise caution when using Tongkat ali.
- Pregnant women and children should not use Tongkat ali due to safety concerns.
What Is Tongkat Ali?
Tongkat Ali, also known as Eurycoma longifolia or Longjack, is an herbal supplement derived from the roots of the green shrub tree Eurycoma longifolia, native to Southeast Asia.
In traditional medicine across Asian countries like Malaysia, Indonesia, and Vietnam, it has been used for various purposes, such as malaria, infections, fevers, male infertility, and erectile dysfunction.
The health benefits of tongkat ali are believed to come from its rich composition of compounds, including flavonoids, alkaloids, and other antioxidants.
These antioxidants play a crucial role in fighting cellular damage caused by free radicals, offering potential benefits to the body.
Presently, Tongkat ali is widely available as a health supplement in various forms worldwide, including tinctures, extracts, capsules, and root powder.
However, scientific evidence supporting its effectiveness in treating erectile dysfunction (ED), male infertility, increasing sexual desire in healthy individuals, or enhancing athletic performance is limited.
Historical Uses of Tongkat Ali
Historically, Tongkat Ali has been widely utilized as a traditional remedy in Southeast Asian countries. Its versatile applications include treating various ailments and symptoms.
Research [1] suggests that Tongkat Ali was commonly employed to cure lumbago, indigestion, and fever.
It was also used as a power tonic after delivery and in the treatment of jaundice, cachexia, and dropsy. Moreover, decoctions of E. longifolia leaves were utilized for washing itches, while its fruits were employed to cure dysentery.
Additionally, the bark of Tongkat Ali was primarily used as a vermifuge, and the taproots were utilized to treat high blood pressure. The root bark, on the other hand, was employed in the treatment of diarrhea and fever.
Notably, the roots extract of E. longifolia served as a folk medicine for various conditions such as sexual dysfunction, aging, malaria, cancer, diabetes, anxiety, aches, constipation, exercise recovery, increased energy and strength, leukemia, osteoporosis, stress, syphilis, glandular swelling, and as an aphrodisiac, antibiotic, appetite stimulant, and health supplement.
10+ Benefits Of Tongkat Ali
In this part, we will explore more than 10 amazing benefits of Tongkat Ali, some of which you may already be aware of, while others might come as a pleasant surprise. Let's delve into the remarkable advantages that Tongkat Ali brings.
May Increase Testosterone Levels And Improve Male Fertility
Male infertility is when a man is unable to impregnate a fertile female. It is a complex condition influenced by various factors, such as decreased sperm production and the presence of dysfunctional sperm.
These abnormalities are commonly observed in cases of idiopathic male infertility [1].
Benefits of Tongkat Ali for men have shown promising potential in improving male fertility and increasing testosterone levels.
Studies have reported that water-soluble extracts of E. longifolia can enhance male fertility by improving semen volumes, spermatozoa count, and motility in both rodent and human trials [1].
One of the key compounds in E. longifolia, eurycomanone, has been found to significantly increase testosterone production in a dose-dependent manner [1].
In a study involving men with low testosterone levels, daily supplementation with Tongkat Ali extract for one month resulted in a significant improvement in serum testosterone levels [6].
Additionally, research on standardized quassinoid-rich E. longifolia extract demonstrated improved spermatogenesis and fertility in male rats, suggesting a potential fertility-enhancing property [6].
These findings suggest that the benefits of Tongkat Ali may hold promise as a natural remedy for testosterone-deficient idiopathic male infertility and sterility.
May Relieve Stress
Tongkat Ali has been extensively studied for its potential to reduce stress. Its effects on stress may include:
- Reducing anxiety
- Lowering cortisol levels
- Improving stress management
- Suppressing stress-related behaviors
- Aiding in recovery from stress-inducing factors such as aging, dieting, and exercise stress.
Multiple studies have been conducted to examine the anti-stress properties of Tongkat Ali.
Study [1] demonstrated that Tongkat Ali has anxiolytic properties similar to diazepam, a drug with sedative effects that helps reduce tension, agitation, anxiety, and induce sleep.
In humans, a study involving 63 subjects with moderate stress showed that daily supplementation with E. longifolia extract significantly improved stress hormone profiles and specific mood state parameters [1].
A study on the "Effects of Tongkat Ali on Stress Hormones and Psychological Mood State in Subjects with Moderate Stress" found that Tongkat Ali significantly improved stress, anger, and confusion.
Tongkat Ali supplementation also helps reduce cortisol exposure and increase testosterone levels [4]. Cortisol is a hormone that plays a crucial role in stress reduction and controlling fear and anxiety.
Furthermore, a study on the Human Performance and Sports Applications of Tongkat Ali revealed that Tongkat Ali promotes overall health and enhances resilience against various stressors, including aging, dieting, and exercise stress [6].
These studies contribute to the evidence supporting the efficacy of Tongkat Ali for stress-related issues, primarily through its mechanism of controlling the cortisol hormone and improving overall health.
Improve Body Composition
Tongkat Ali may contribute to improving body composition by increasing levels of free testosterone. It stimulates the production of luteinizing hormone (LH), which instructs the testicles to generate more testosterone.
Tongkat Ali may also impede the enzyme responsible for converting testosterone into estrogen, potentially leading to a further increase in free testosterone levels.
By elevating free testosterone levels and reducing SHBG levels, Tongkat Ali has the potential to enhance physical fitness and muscle mass.
In addition to supporting testosterone increase and cortisol reduction, Tongkat Ali also helps provide energy, increase endurance, and thereby improve exercise performance.
Thanks to supporting the improvement of exercise performance, Tongkat Ali has indirectly enhanced body composition.
The effects of Tongkat Ali on body composition include reducing fat, increasing lean muscle mass, and especially enhancing muscle.
Although there are some controversial studies on this effect of Tongkat Ali, it is still considered one of the most popular supplements sought after and used by athletes and exercisers.
Increase Muscle Strength
Tongkat Ali has been found to have a significant effect on increasing testosterone levels, which in turn supports the enhancement of muscle strength.
Studies have shown that regular intake of Tongkat Ali root extracts may lead to increased interest among bodybuilders in boosting muscle mass and strength.
For example, a study observed noteworthy improvements in fat-free mass, fat mass, maximal strength, and arm circumference in individuals who consumed 100mg/day of Tongkat Ali compared to a placebo group [4].
These findings indicate that Tongkat Ali extract can augment muscle mass and strength gains while promoting fat loss, making it a potential natural ergogenic aid for athletes and individuals seeking weight loss goals [4].
Additionally, Study [5] concluded that Tongkat Ali is effective for general well-being and is endorsed for use by a wide range of athletes.
The efficacy in increasing muscle mass and overall health has also been observed in physically active elderly individuals.
Read more: Tongkat Ali Bodybuilding Benefits? Dosage for Muscle Growth
May Improve Erectile Function
Tongkat Ali has been shown to have a significant effect on increasing testosterone levels, which is a hormone that plays a key role in the erection process in men, helping to make penetration easier.
A study [3] showed that the aqueous root extract of Tongkat Ali may have clinical benefits in improving erectile dysfunction (ED).
In addition, another double-blind study [15] conducted in 2020 showed that Eurycoma longifolia, combined with concurrent exercise for 6 months, significantly improved erectile function in men with androgen deficiency.
Based on this information, it can be concluded that Tongkat Ali may improve erectile function, especially in men with androgen deficiency.
However, studies still suggest that more research is needed to verify this effect of tongkat ali.
Ergogenic Aid
Tongkat Ali extract has been found to be an effective natural ergogenic aid for athletes and individuals on a diet.
Study [4] suggests that it can increase muscle mass, strength gains, and promote fat loss in healthy individuals who exercise.
Additionally, a pilot study conducted in 2017, titled "Effect of Eurycoma Longifolia Jack Extract on Lipolysis in Collegiate Athletes," supports the notion that Eurycoma Longifolia can enhance performance and increase energy production [20].
Improve Bone Health
According to two studies [16],[17], it has been found that Eurycoma longifolia has potential benefits in improving bone health.
The study [16] suggests that Eurycoma longifolia could be an alternative treatment for testosterone replacement therapy and may help restore bone volume in individuals with androgen-deficient osteoporosis.
Moreover, the study [17] highlights that Eurycoma longifolia exhibits androgenic effects, stimulating osteoblast proliferation and osteoclast apoptosis, which help maintain bone remodeling activity and prevent bone loss.
Although Tongkat Ali is thought to have the potential for bone health, there are other benefits of Tongkat Ali, so combining Tongkat Ali with products and exercises that improve bone health is necessary.
Cancer
According to studies, Tongkat Ali has shown potential in helping with cancer.
In Study [9], eurycomanone, a compound found in Tongkat Ali, has demonstrated inhibitory effects on cancer cell growth and the ability to induce cell death.
Additionally, a 2014 study [14] discovered the presence of flavonoids in various extracts from the plant, which have been associated with health-promoting properties and a positive correlation with reduced risks of cardiovascular and cancer diseases.
Anti-Inflammatory And Antimicrobial Effects
Last but not least, the benefits of Tongkat Ali that contributes to its popularity is its anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
According to study [18], the ethanolic extract of Eurycoma longifolia Jack (ELJ) exhibits dose-dependent anti-inflammatory and antinociceptive effects.
This study also highlights the extract's antipyretic activity, evident only at high doses.
Another study recognized the role of Tongkat Ali in addressing erectile dysfunction, where inflammation plays a significant role [19].
These studies provide clear evidence of Tongkat Ali's effectiveness in combating inflammation and infections, making it a valuable natural resource with potential health benefits.
Additional Benefits
Although research on the effectiveness of tongkat ali varies, it has traditionally been used for managing conditions such as diabetes, malaria, chronic pain, low energy, fever, and infection.
A study conducted by Chan et al. (2019) [20] investigated the potential anti-diabetic effects of tongkat ali extract in animal models, showing promising results in reducing blood glucose levels.
However, further research is needed to validate and establish the clinical benefits of tongkat ali in humans.
It is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional and consider potential side effects or medication interactions before using tongkat ali for any specific health concerns.
"Benefits of Tongkat Ali are multiple and helpful. It has the potential to increase testosterone levels, enhance male fertility and exercise performance, alleviate stress, improve bone health, and even exhibit anti-cancer properties. Moreover, it serves as a natural ergogenic aid for athletes and shows promise in combating inflammation and infections. However, while Tongkat Ali has traditional uses in managing diabetes and chronic pain, further research is necessary to establish its definitive clinical benefits."
Possible Side Effects Of Tongkat Ali
According to several studies, including Study [1], Study [2], Study [5], Study [4], and Study [6], no reported side effects of Tongkat Ali have been observed in human studies involving its supplementation.
However, it is worth noting that some users have reported encountering certain adverse effects in practical situations.
Study [1] indicates that Tongkat Ali concentrations used therapeutically at concentrations up to 2.5 µg·mL−1 appears to have no detrimental effects on human spermatozoa in vitro. However, concentrations higher than 100 µg·mL−1 might cause cytotoxic effects.
Furthermore, in relation to the prostate, it is recommended by the Endocrine Society that Tongkat Ali treatment should be considered with caution for individuals with prostate cancer (PCa) due to its potential to increase serum testosterone concentrations, which may pose risks for prostate problems in elderly men.
A 2021 report by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) Panel on Nutrition, Novel Foods and Food Allergens [14] highlighted that a high dose (2,000 mg/kg body weight) of the water-based extract from dried ground tongkat ali could result in DNA damage to the stomach and duodenum tissues.
Taking excessive amounts of Eurycoma longifolia may lead to mercury or lead poisoning, along with other potential side effects.
Additionally, Study [2] warns that the roots of Tongkat Ali have the capacity to absorb and accumulate harmful substances, such as heavy metals and naturally occurring radioactive isotopes, from the soil.
Some studies have found toxicity in certain quassinoids isolated from the roots.
Besides, caution is advised for individuals with hormonal cancers, as E. longifolia may increase testosterone levels.
It is important to note that while laboratory studies have shown beneficial effects, their translation to the human body may vary.
Additionally, If you are taking medications to lower blood glucose, it is recommended to consult with a doctor before using E. longifolia, as it may enhance the effects of these medications.
In addition to the study, certain sources suggest that individuals with specific conditions such as cancer, heart disease, kidney disease, or weakened immune systems should exercise caution when considering the use of E. longifolia.
While these studies continue to spark debate, it is important to note that cases have been reported where individuals have experienced side effects of Tongkat Ali.
Therefore, caution should be exercised to prevent and fully understand the potential adverse effects of excessive consumption of Tongkat Ali.
Summary: Tongkat Ali is generally considered safe, however, certain side effects may occur. High concentrations could potentially lead to cytotoxic effects and DNA damage. Due to its ability to increase testosterone levels, it should be used cautiously by those with hormonal cancers or prostate issues. Lastly, it may enhance the effects of blood glucose-lowering medications, necessitating medical consultation prior to use.
How Much Should You Take Tongkat Ali Per Day?
Based on both traditional usage practices and credible studies, it is important to establish a suitable dosage for Tongkat Ali to avoid potential side effects.
Study [2] states that typical dosage recommendations range from 50-200 mg/day of a water-extracted Tongkat Ali root standardized to 22% neuropeptides, taking into consideration the available scientific evidence in humans, including dieters and athletes.
However, it is crucial to note that high dosages have the potential to cause damage to gastrointestinal DNA.
In the present day, Tongkat Ali is extensively used in various products. Therefore, it is essential to adhere to the dosage and instructions provided by manufacturers, considering the amount of Tongkat Ali extract present in their product. Furthermore, it is important to be aware that some supplements may contain mercury.
Who Is Suitable For Tongkat Ali?
Tongkat Ali is widely used among males due to its effects in increasing testosterone levels, improving male fertility, enhancing erectile function, optimizing body composition, and increasing muscle strength, particularly beneficial for men engaged in workouts.
According to Study [5], both males and females aged 52-72 experienced changes in testosterone levels with a dosage of 400 mg/day over 5 weeks. While the changes were more significant in males, it cannot be denied that Tongkat Ali has an effect on females as well.
Therefore, Tongkat Ali can be utilized by both genders. Specifically, it is suitable for individuals with sub-normal testosterone levels, including those who are dieting for weight loss, middle-aged individuals suffering from fatigue or depression, and intensely training athletes who may be at risk of overtraining.
Should You Use Tongkat Ali?
Overall, Tongkat Ali is a supplement with multiple beneficial effects on health. It can improve testosterone levels, physical performance, mood and cognitive functioning, bone health, support exercise performance and recovery, et cetera.
As long as the dosage is safe and monitored effectively, it should be used to reap its potential benefits.
It is essential to note that Tongkat Ali can be utilized as a supplement to boost exercise performance and recovery. However, it should not replace proper nutrition or training.
Finally, individuals who are considering using Eurycoma longifolia should consult a doctor before starting the supplement to ensure that they do not have any underlying medical conditions that may put their health at risk when combined with a Tongkat Ali supplement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Tongkat Ali Safe for Everyone?
Tongkat Ali is generally safe for most individuals when consumed at a suitable dosage. However, it may not be suitable for pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, and those with pre-existing medical conditions. Consult a doctor before consuming Tongkat Ali if you have any of these conditions.
Is There Any Risk of Drug Interaction When Taking Tongkat Ali?
There is a risk of drug interaction when taking Tongkat Ali, as some studies have shown that it may interact with at least 26 different drugs [22]. If you are taking any medication, speak to your doctor before taking Tongkat Ali to avoid potential complications.
What Is the Best Way to Take Tongkat Ali?
The best way to take Tongkat Ali is through dietary sources such as tea, capsules, and powder, as these are easily absorbed by the body. In addition, consult with a doctor before taking any kind of supplement in order to determine the best dosage for you.
Will Tongkat Ali Fail Drug Test?
Tongkat Ali is unlikely to cause a failed drug test as it does not contain any banned substances. However, it is important to be aware that some supplements may contain trace amounts of banned substances due to cross-contamination during the manufacturing process. Therefore, if you are subjected to regular drug tests, check with your doctor before starting the Tongkat Ali supplement.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the benefits of Tongkat Ali range from enhancing testosterone levels to improving physical performance and mood. However, careful attention must be paid to dosage to avoid potential side effects.
Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen, including Tongkat Ali.
Despite its potential risks, when used responsibly, Tongkat Ali can be a powerful tool for overall health and wellness.
References
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