Shilajit Vs Tongkat Ali: Can You Combine Them Together?

It's no wonder that more people wonder about the differences between Shilajit and Tongkat Ali due to their unique health benefits.

Both superfoods have been gaining immense popularity lately, especially in Asian cultures, for helping to prevent and treat various ailments such as depression and fatigue. So which one is better?

What exactly sets these two powerful ingredients apart from each other?

Here, we explore the key difference between Shilajit and Tongkat Ali before sharing a surprising combination of both that you might not expect!

Background of Tongkat Ali

Overview of Tongkat Ali

Tongkat Ali, scientifically known as Eurycoma longifolia Jack (ELJ), is a medicinal shrub native to Southeast Asia, particularly Malaysia, Indonesia, and Thailand.

Traditionally used for centuries in folk medicine, it has gained global attention as a natural remedy for supporting male vitality, enhancing libido, boosting energy, and relieving fatigue.

Modern research highlights Tongkat Ali’s adaptogenic and testosterone-supporting properties. It works primarily by reducing sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG), thereby increasing free testosterone levels.

Additionally, it helps regulate cortisol, the body’s primary stress hormone, contributing to improved mood, energy, and resilience. A 2013 study reported a 37% increase in testosterone and a 16% reduction in cortisol exposure among users [6].

Benefits

Tongkat Ali offers many benefits, some well-known and others that might surprise you. Let's explore these advantages:

• Boosts Testosterone and Male Fertility [6] [7]: Helps increase free testosterone levels, potentially enhancing libido, sperm quality, and reproductive health.
• Relieves Stress and Builds Resilience [6] [8] [9] [10] [11]: Functions as an adaptogen by lowering cortisol, reducing anxiety, and supporting mood stability.
• Improves Body Composition and Muscle Mass [8] [13] [14]: Supports lean muscle gain and reduces body fat, making it popular among athletes and bodybuilders.
• Increases Muscle Strength and Endurance [8] [13] [14]: Enhances physical performance and may improve post-workout recovery.
• Supports Erectile Function [8] [15]: Traditionally used to improve sexual performance and libido in men.
• Ergogenic Aid for Athletes and Dieters: Promotes physical stamina and helps mitigate overtraining fatigue.
• Supports Bone Health: Preliminary studies suggest it may help prevent bone loss and improve bone mineral density.
• Anti-inflammatory and Antimicrobial Properties: Exhibits bioactive compounds that contribute to immune support and cellular protection.
• Traditional Applications: Used in managing fevers, malaria, diabetes, low energy, chronic pain, and infections in traditional medicine.

Now that we've highlighted the diverse benefits of Tongkat Ali let's delve deeper into understanding its side effects.

Given its numerous benefits, many people have chosen to take Tongkat Ali in supplement form. Ari Givony, an Amazon user, shared that it helped "increase and enhance my overall sense of well-being and energy levels.*

Explore more:Tongkat Ali Vs Fenugreek - Comparison And Combination

Side Effects

While Tongkat Ali is generally considered safe, it's important to be aware of potential side effects. These typically occur when consuming higher doses, including insomnia, restlessness, and irritability. Other serious side effects that may occur in case of taking excessive dosage of Tongkat:

• Caution Advised for Prostate Cancer Patients
• High Doses Can Cause DNA Damage to Stomach and Duodenum Tissues
• Potential Absorption of Heavy Metals and Radioactive Isotopes from Soil
• Toxicity Concerns Linked to Certain Quassinoids
• Caution for Hormonal Cancer Patients Due to Increased Testosterone
• Consultation Required for Those on Blood Glucose Medications
• Caution for Individuals with Conditions such as Cancer, Heart Disease, Kidney Disease, or Weakened Immune Systems
• There are rumors that it remains Tongkat ali side effects on the liver, gynecomastia, and baldness in men; However, this remains highly controversial.

Dosage and Notable Using Tips

The typical recommended daily dosage of Tongkat Ali ranges from 200–500 mg, depending on extract potency and intended use. Some users may require up to 600 mg for athletic or hormonal support, but such use should be supervised.

Usage guidance:

• Start low and assess tolerance, especially if using for the first time.
• Split the dose into morning and early afternoon to avoid sleep disturbances.
• Forms available: capsule, powder, or liquid extract. Capsules are most common for precise dosing.
• Stacking considerations: Tongkat Ali is often combined with other adaptogens (e.g., Ashwagandha or Shilajit) for synergistic effects.

For maximum benefits:

• Use Tongkat Ali consistently over several weeks; effects are more noticeable with sustained intake.
• Ensure product quality by selecting standardized extracts containing ≥1% eurycomanone, the key active quassinoid.
• Avoid combining with substances or medications that may affect hormone metabolism unless medically approved.

Read more:Tongkat Ali vs Turkesterone: Which's Better & Can They Combine

Background of Shilajit

Overview of Shilajit

Shilajit is a sticky, tar-like resin that seeps from rock formations in high mountain ranges such as the Himalayas, Altai, Caucasus, and Tibet.

It forms over centuries from the gradual decomposition of plant and microbial matter, resulting in a nutrient-rich substance that contains over 84 ionic minerals, fulvic acid, humic acid, trace elements, and amino acids [1].

In Ayurvedic medicine, Shilajit is classified as a Rasayana, or rejuvenator, traditionally used to enhance longevity, vitality, cognitive function, testosterone production, and immune strength.

Its primary active compound, fulvic acid, is known for its detoxifying, antioxidant, and nutrient-transporting properties, supporting cellular energy and mitochondrial function.

Benefits

Shilajit offers a variety of benefits for both men and women. Let's explore these advantages:

• Boosts energy levels by supporting mitochondrial ATP production [3] [4] [5]
• Improves cognitive function, including memory, mental clarity, and focus [2] [5]
• Relieves stress, anxiety, and depression, acting as a natural adaptogen [3] [5]
• Supports hormonal balance, especially testosterone and fertility in men [3] [4] [5]
• Promotes better digestion and metabolism, aiding nutrient assimilation [2]
• Helps manage high-altitude sickness (HACE) and supports brain health [1]
• Provides anti-inflammatory and anti-ulcer effects [2] [3] [5]
• Acts as a strong antioxidant, neutralizing free radicals [2], [3] [4] [5]
• Supports healthy blood sugar levels and antidiabetic effects [2] [5]
• Demonstrates potential antiviral and anti-HIV activity [2]
• Exhibits antimicrobial activity and boosts immune function [5]
• Shows cardioprotective properties, especially in managing oxidative stress [5]
• May help detoxify heavy metals and environmental toxins through fulvic acid

Now that we've highlighted the benefits of Shilajit let's delve deeper into understanding its side effects.

In today’s fast-paced world, many people turn to supplements for their convenience and efficiency. One user on Amazon, Flavio, who recently started using the supplement, shared that he had been looking for something to improve his daily energy and focus, as he often worked long hours and struggled with mental fatigue that affected his productivity. After taking it consistently for a few days, he noticed a significant boost in his energy levels—without the typical “peak and crash” sensation that some stimulants tend to cause.*

You may also like:Viagra Vs. Shilajit: A Detail Comparison to Choose the Best Option

Shilajit Safety

While Shilajit is generally regarded as safe when purified and taken in appropriate doses, there are important safety considerations:

• Contaminated or unpurified Shilajit may contain:
  • Mycotoxins (toxic compounds from fungi)
  • Heavy metals like lead or mercury
  • Polymeric quinones and free radicals, which may cause oxidative stress and DNA damage [3]
• Potential side effects (especially with impure or high doses) include:
  • Digestive discomfort (nausea, diarrhea, upset stomach)
  • Allergic reactions (rare), such as skin rash, itching, or palpitations
  • Lowered blood pressure, which may cause dizziness or fatigue in susceptible individuals
  • Iron overload, particularly in those with hemochromatosis or elevated ferritin levels
• Who should avoid Shilajit:
  • Individuals with low blood pressure
  • People taking medications for hypertension or iron-related conditions
  • Anyone unsure of product purity—always verify source and testing

Dosage and Notable Using Tips Of Shilajit

The standard recommended daily dosage of purified Shilajit is 300–500 mg [1] [2], ideally taken in two divided doses (morning and afternoon). For enhanced absorption and traditional practice, it's often mixed with warm milk or water.

Dosing strategies:

• Short-term (1–2 weeks): Energy boost, reduced fatigue, improved focus
• Medium-term (2–4 weeks): Testosterone support, stamina, cognitive function
• Long-term (4–8+ weeks): Enhanced immunity, anti-aging, and systemic benefits

However, it's important to note that Shilajit should not be used with some foods like horse gram, meat of pigeon, or Solanum nigrum [1]. Additionally, raw and unprocessed Shilajit should be avoided as it contains many free radicals [1].

Quality matters:

Look for purified Shilajit that is lab-tested for heavy metals, standardized for fulvic acid content, and ideally sourced from Himalayan regions. Products should meet purity standards (e.g., GMP-certified, organic, or FDA-registered facilities).

Read more: Cistanche Vs. Shilajit: The Comprehensive Comparison

The Comparison: Tongkat Ali vs Shilajit

Shilajit and Tongkat Ali are two of the most popular natural supplements for enhancing male vitality, energy, and overall health. While they share some overlapping benefits, they differ significantly in origin, mechanism, primary use cases, and time to effectiveness. Understanding these differences can help you determine which supplement best aligns with your individual goals.

Key Differences Overview

Dosing & Format Comparison

Note: Quality matters significantly for both. Look for standardized extracts and avoid unverified or unpurified sources.

Tongkat Ali Vs Shilajit - Which One Is Better for You?

Choosing between Tongkat Ali and Shilajit depends on your personal health goals, lifestyle, and biological needs. While both supplements offer impressive benefits, they serve different purposes and excel in distinct areas of support.

For Energy & Overall Vitality

Choose Shilajit if you’re looking for a broad-spectrum, mineral-rich supplement that supports energy production at the cellular level. Thanks to its high fulvic acid and trace mineral content, Shilajit enhances mitochondrial function, boosts stamina, and supports whole-body recovery—making it ideal for those experiencing chronic fatigue, overtraining, or seeking long-term vitality and anti-aging support.

Best for: All-around vitality, recovery, and those with high physical or cognitive demands.

For Testosterone & Physical Performance

Go with Tongkat Ali if your primary goal is to increase free testosterone, build lean muscle mass, or improve sexual performance and physical stamina. Tongkat Ali is one of the most studied herbal supplements for hormonal balance in men, especially for managing age-related testosterone decline or workout recovery.

Best for: Athletes, bodybuilders, or men looking to enhance libido, strength, and resilience.

For Hormonal Balance Across Genders

While Tongkat Ali is testosterone-focused and best suited for men, Shilajit offers broader endocrine support—beneficial for both men and women. Women dealing with hormonal imbalance, perimenopause, or PCOS may benefit more from Shilajit’s adaptogenic and mineral-replenishing properties.

Best for: Women seeking gentle hormone modulation and those sensitive to androgen-focused supplements.

For Stress Resilience & Cortisol Management

If you're frequently battling stress, poor mood, or high cortisol levels, Tongkat Ali may offer faster results due to its proven ability to reduce stress hormones and improve mood stability. It can be especially useful for professionals, athletes, or anyone exposed to high daily stress.

Best for: Quick stress recovery, emotional stability, and stress-related fatigue.