Tongkat Ali Vs. Turkesterone: Which's Better & Can They Combine
Tongkat Ali and Turkesterone are taking the supplement world by storm but is the hype real, or just another internet-fueled illusion?
Tongkat Ali is often linked to male vitality and drive, while Turkesterone is hyped for its performance-boosting and focus-enhancing potential.
But which one actually delivers and can stacking them offer even better results? This article uncovers the truth behind the buzz, compares their key differences, and explores whether combining them makes sense for your routine.
Before exploring further, please read the disclaimer located at the end of this webpage.
What are Turkesterone and Tongkat Ali?
What Is Tongkat Ali?
Tongkat Ali is a traditional Southeast Asian herb known for enhancing both physical and mental performance.
Also called Eurycoma longifolia or Malaysian ginseng, this natural remedy has long been used to boost libido and support recovery from conditions like malaria and fever.
Modern research has revealed even more potential benefits—from improving metabolism, energy levels, and immune function to reducing stress, enhancing mood, and supporting cognitive and muscular performance.
Curious to know what makes Tongkat Ali so beneficial? Continue reading to delve into its mechanism and unlock its secrets!
How Tongkat Ali Works
Tongkat Ali supports hormonal balance and physical performance by naturally stimulating the body's internal processes.
It enhances the production of luteinizing hormone (LH), a key signal that prompts Leydig cells in the testes to produce testosterone. This rise in testosterone is linked to increased libido, greater muscle strength, and reduced stress.
Beyond its hormonal effects, Tongkat Ali is also rich in antioxidants and exhibits anti-inflammatory properties, which may help the body cope with stress and maintain better overall wellness.
Benefits of Tongkat Ali
Tongkat Ali provides various health benefits, especially for men, due to its ability to enhance testosterone production.
Key effects include increased testosterone levels [6,7], improved libido and fertility [6,7], enhanced muscle strength [8,9,10], better physical performance [8], and support for bone health [11,12].
It may also help reduce stress and fatigue [11,12], exhibit anti-inflammatory properties [15], and show potential anti-cancer effects [13,14].
In addition to the benefits, it is important to be aware of potential side effects when using Tongkat Ali.
Given its wide-ranging benefits, it’s no surprise that many have chosen supplements containing Tongkat Ali.*
Many Reddit users also favor Tongkat Ali, especially the LJ100 extract, for boosting libido, energy, and men’s health. In contrast, Turkesterone is often criticized for being expensive with minimal noticeable effects, and some users even question the effectiveness of both.*
Sean Thornton, a user on Amazon, shared his experience:
“I was looking for a supplement that could boost my energy and motivation without making my heart race. After two weeks of use, I’m feeling really good. The only downside is the lack of transparency regarding the dosage of the two main ingredients. Because of that, I probably won’t purchase it again.”*
Tongkat Ali: Dosage and Side Effects
Tongkat Ali Dosage: The recommended daily dose of Tongkat Ali is 200–400 mg, ideally split into two servings for better absorption. Always follow the supplement’s label instructions and avoid exceeding the suggested amount without medical guidance.
Tongkat Ali Side Effects: While generally safe at proper doses, high intakes may cause insomnia, digestive discomfort, or elevated blood pressure. Some users report concerns about liver, kidney, or hormonal effects, though these remain unproven. Tongkat Ali may also interact with medications like blood thinners or diabetes drugs, so consult your doctor before use.*
What Is Turkesterone?
Turkesterone is a natural compound found in plants like Ajuga turkestanica and Vitex, often grouped with other ecdysteroids due to its anabolic properties.
Although it shares some similarities with testosterone in promoting muscle growth and physical performance, it works differently.
Instead of binding to androgen receptors like testosterone does, Turkesterone acts on various proteins and enzymes that support muscle development, endurance, and recovery—without directly influencing hormonal pathways.
How Turkesterone Works
Turkesterone functions through its connection to ecdysterone, a natural compound known to trigger anabolic activity in the body.
It activates estrogen beta receptors, helping promote muscle growth in a way that mimics testosterone—without suppressing the body’s own hormone production (Velislava Todorova et al., 2023).
Unlike traditional anabolic steroids, Turkesterone doesn’t bind to androgen receptors or interfere with the body’s hormonal axis. This makes it an appealing choice for those looking to build muscle while avoiding the hormonal side effects associated with synthetic steroids [2].
Benefits of Turkesterone
Turkesterone has a number of benefits for athletes, bodybuilders, and regular gym-goers. These include:
- Increased muscle mass [2,4]
- Improved physical performance (Zubeldia et al., 2012)
- Enhanced strength and power [4]
- Reduced fatigue [3,4]
- Greater concentration and focus (Mamarasulov et al., 2020)
Turkesterone: Dosage and Side Effects
Turkesterone Dosage: The recommended dose is 400–800 mg per day, split into three equal servings for optimal results.
Turkesterone Side Effects: Turkesterone is generally well tolerated, but high doses may cause acne, hair loss, mood swings, digestive issues, headaches, or fatigue. Some users also report dizziness or brain fog.
Can You Take Tongkat Ali and Turkesterone Together?
Taking Tongkat Ali and Turkesterone together can provide complementary benefits to enhance physical performance, muscle growth, energy levels, mental clarity, and overall well-being.
However, it is important to take into account individual needs and goals before taking any supplement combination.
Also, if either of the supplements is on WADA's watchlist or prohibited in sports, avoiding taking them in combination is best, as this may lead to serious repercussions.
Regardless of what supplements you choose to take, it's essential to maintain a healthy lifestyle by eating a balanced diet, getting regular exercise, and managing stress levels.
This will ensure that you are getting all the nutrients your body needs to support physical performance and muscle growth.
You can achieve optimal results from your fitness journey by properly combining an active lifestyle with the right supplements.
What Are The Differences Between Tongkat Ali Vs Turkesterone
While both Tongkat Ali and Turkesterone are renowned for their ability to enhance physical performance and muscle growth, they do so through different mechanisms.
Tongkat Ali works by boosting the production of luteinizing hormone (LH), which in turn stimulates the production of testosterone, a hormone vital for male sexual development and muscle growth.
On the other hand, Turkesterone doesn't directly stimulate testosterone production but exerts its effects by activating certain proteins and enzymes, which can improve muscle growth, physical performance, and recovery.
Regarding benefits, both supplements share some commonalities, such as improving physical performance and muscle strength, reducing stress and fatigue, and enhancing cognitive function.
However, Tongkat Ali has additional benefits, including libido improvement and enhanced immunity, which are not prominent in Turkesterone's profile.
When considering the side effects, Tongkat Ali may increase blood pressure at high doses and cause insomnia. Turkesterone, on the other hand, may lead to mood changes and acne due to increased testosterone levels.
It's important to note that Turkesterone is currently on the active substance watchlist of the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA), posing a high risk of being prohibited in sports.
According to the 2018 International Society of Sports Nutrition review, Turkesterone is not recommended for supplementation to enhance performance (Kerksick et al., 2018).
In contrast, Tongkat Ali is accepted for use by the Olympic Committee because its T/E ratio falls within an acceptable range. Additionally, Tongkat Ali is not included in the watchlist of WADA.
The sports and fitness community commonly utilizes Tongkat Ali to enhance anaerobic performance, promote muscle growth, and as a pre-and post-workout supplement.
Finally, the recommended dosage for Tongkat Ali is 200-400 mg per day, while that for Turkesterone is slightly higher, at 400-800 mg per day.
Read more: Fadogia Agrestis vs Tongkat Ali - Can We Take Them Together?
Summary Table
We summarize here the comparison table for you to easy to scan the key differences between Tongkat Ali and Turkesterone:
|
Criteria |
Tongkat Ali |
Turkesterone |
|
Origin |
A herb native to Southeast Asia |
Derived from plants such as Ajuga Turkestanica, Vitex |
|
Mechanism |
Stimulates production of luteinizing hormone (LH), leading to increased testosterone production |
|
|
Main Benefits |
|
|
|
Side Effects |
At high doses, it may increase blood pressure and cause insomnia, gastrointestinal discomfort, or headaches. |
Can lead to mood changes, acne, dizziness, cognitive decline, nausea, headaches, and exhaustion. |
|
Dosage |
Recommended dosage is 200-400 mg per day. |
Recommended dosage is 400-800 mg per day. |
|
Population and Scientific Studies |
More popular |
Less popular |
|
Acceptable Usage |
|
|
Which One Is Better - Tongkat Ali Vs. Turkesterone?
The answer depends on your individual needs and goals. Tongkat Ali is suitable for improving physical performance, muscle growth, libido, immunity, mental clarity, and stress reduction. It is also legal in most sporting events.
In contrast, Turkesterone has been linked to improved physical performance and muscle strength but may carry the risk of serious side effects, such as acne and mood changes.
It is also on the watchlist of WADA and may soon be prohibited in sports.
Therefore, it is best to consult with your doctor or healthcare provider before taking any kind of supplement to ensure that it won't interfere with your overall health and well-being.
Additionally, it's important to stick to the recommended dosage to avoid potential side effects.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are There Any Potential Negative Effects of Combining Turkesterone and Tongkat Ali?
Combining Turkesterone and Tongkat Ali may increase the risk of side effects such as mood changes, acne, and insomnia. Additionally, it could potentially result in an overdose if the combined dosage exceeds the recommended limit.
When Can I Expect to Notice Results After Beginning the Use of Turkesterone and Tongkat Ali?
Typically, it takes a few weeks to notice significant changes after using Turkesterone and Tongkat Ali. However, individual results may vary depending on dosage, lifestyle, and physiological responses to the supplements.
Can Turkesterone Effectively Address Erectile Dysfunction?
While Turkesterone is known to enhance physical performance and muscle strength, it does not directly stimulate testosterone production, which is crucial for addressing erectile dysfunction. Therefore, its effectiveness in treating erectile dysfunction is not well-established.
Is the Usage of Turkesterone and Tongkat Ali Safe for Women?
Both Turkesterone and Tongkat Ali can be used by women under the guidance of a healthcare professional. However, as these supplements can influence hormonal balance, their effects may differ in women and men.
It's crucial for women to consult with a healthcare provider before starting these supplements to ensure safety and efficacy.
What Supplements Can Be Combined with Turkesterone for Stacking?
To enhance the effects of Turkesterone, consider using supplements like testosterone boosters, estrogen blockers, and growth hormone boosters.
Testosterone boosters increase testosterone production, complementing Turkesterone's muscle growth and performance benefits.
Estrogen blockers balance hormone levels and may enhance Turkesterone's results.
Growth hormone boosters support muscle development and recovery, aligning with Turkesterone's desired outcomes. Consult a healthcare professional for safe and optimal stacking.
What Precautions Should Be Taken When Using Turkesterone?
Turkesterone should be used in a controlled and recommended dosage to prevent potential side effects such as mood changes, acne, and dizziness.
It is also crucial to consult with a healthcare provider before starting Turkesterone, especially for individuals with pre-existing medical conditions or other medications.
Lastly, as Turkesterone is on WADA's watchlist, athletes should exercise caution in its use to avoid potential disqualification in sports.
Is Turkesterone More Well-Liked Compared To Tongkat Ali?
The preference between Turkesterone and Tongkat Ali is highly individual and depends on personal health goals and tolerance for potential side effects. However, due to its wider range of benefits and fewer side effects, Tongkat Ali is often more favored than Turkesterone, particularly by athletes and those in the fitness industry.
Conclusion
With so many natural performance-enhancing supplements, it can be difficult to determine the best one for you.
However, when it comes down to Tongkat Ali and Turkesterone, both have their strong points in terms of effects and features.
Some may prefer one, while others may even choose both for an added boost.
Whichever path you take, this combination is a powerful force to keep you at your peak physical and mental performance.
References
- [1] Kerksick, C. M., Wilborn, C., Roberts, M. D., Smith‐Ryan, A. E., Kleiner, S. M., Ralf Jäger, Collins, R., Cooke, M., Davis, J. N., E Galván, Greenwood, M., Lowery, L., Wildman, R., José António, & Kreider, R. B. (2018). ISSN exercise & sports nutrition review update: research & recommendations. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, 15(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12970-018-0242-y
- [2] Velislava Todorova, Ivanov, K., Karcheva-Bahchevanska, D., & Ivanova, S. (2023). Development and Validation of High-Performance Liquid Chromatography for Identification and Quantification of Phytoecdysteroids Ecdysterone and Turkesterone in Dietary Supplements. Processes, 11(6), 1786–1786. https://doi.org/10.3390/pr11061786
- [3] Bakhodir Mamarasulov, Kakhramon Davranov, & Dilfuza Jabborova. (2020, June). Phytochemical, pharmacological and biological properties of Ajuga turkestanica (Rgl.) Brig (Lamiaceae). ResearchGate; unknown. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/342678412_Phytochemical_pharmacological_and_biological_properties_of_Ajuga_turkestanica_Rgl_Brig_Lamiaceae
- [4] Mária Báthori, & Pongrácz, Z. (2005). Phytoecdysteroids - From Isolation to Their Effects on Humans. Current Medicinal Chemistry, 12(2), 153–172. https://doi.org/10.2174/0929867053363450
- [5] Zubeldia, J. M., Aarón Hernández-Santana, Jiménez-del-Rio, M., Verónica Pérez-López, Rubén Pérez-Machín, & José Manuel García-Castellano. (2012). In Vitro Characterization of the Efficacy and Safety Profile of a Proprietary Ajuga Turkestanica Extract. Chinese Medicine, 03(04), 215–222. https://doi.org/10.4236/cm.2012.34031
- [6] Shaheed Ur Rehman, Kevin Kyungsik Choe, & Hye Hyun Yoo. (2016). Review on a Traditional Herbal Medicine, Eurycoma longifolia Jack (Tongkat Ali): Its Traditional Uses, Chemistry, Evidence-Based Pharmacology and Toxicology. Molecules, 21(3), 331–331. https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules21030331
- [7] Talbott, S. (2013). Human Performance and Sports Applications of Tongkat Ali (Eurycoma longifolia). Elsevier EBooks. https://doi.org/10.1016/b978-0-12-396454-0.00053-9
- [8] Talbott, S., Talbott, J. A., George, A., & Pugh, M. (2013). Effect of Tongkat Ali on stress hormones and psychological mood state in moderately stressed subjects. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, 10(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/1550-2783-10-28
- [9] Henkel, R., Wang, R., Bassett, S., Chen, T., Liu, N., Zhu, Y., & Mohd. (2013). Tongkat Ali as a Potential Herbal Supplement for Physically Active Male and Female Seniors-A Pilot Study. Phytotherapy Research, 28(4), 544–550. https://doi.org/10.1002/ptr.5017
- [10] Low, B.-S., Das, P. K., & Chan, K. (2013). Standardized quassinoid-rich Eurycoma longifolia extract improved spermatogenesis and fertility in male rats via the hypothalamic–pituitary–gonadal axis. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 145(3), 706–714. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jep.2012.11.013
- [11] Toyama, H., & al, et. (2022). Randomized Controlled Trial of the Effects of Tongkat Ali Intake on Stress Markers and Sleep Quality in Healthy Japanese Adults. 薬理と治療, 50(5), 871–876. https://www.pieronline.jp/content/article/0386-3603/50050/871
- [12] Vet, J., & Malaysia. (2022). INHIBITORY EFFECTS OF TONGKAT ALI (Eurycoma longifolia) EXTRACT ON LIGHTING STRESS- INDUCED SLEEP DISORDERS IN PIGS. 34(1). https://storage.unitedwebnetwork.com/files/478/8896465115c3e9db273d44a1aac2326b.pdf
- [13] Shankar Jothi, Thaigarajan Parumasivam, & Noratiqah Mohtar. (2023). Eurycoma longifolia: an overview on the pharmacological properties for the treatment of common cancer. Journal of Public Health in Africa. https://doi.org/10.4081/jphia.2023.2495
- [14] Qinna, N. A., Taha, H. A., Matalka, K. Z., & Badwan, A. A. (2009). A new herbal combination, Etana, for enhancing erectile function: an efficacy and safety study in animals. International Journal of Impotence Research, 21(5), 315–320. https://doi.org/10.1038/ijir.2009.18
- [15] Aida EL makawy, BARAKAT ALAA, HAFEZ, O. M., & ALLAH, M. (2016, April). Assessment of genetic and reproductive toxicity of tongkat ali plus®. ResearchGate; International Journal of Pharma and Bio Sciences. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/301206860_Assessment_of_genetic_and_reproductive_toxicity_of_tongkat_ali_plusR
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