Lj 100
Also known as: Tongkat Ali, Longjack, Pasak Bumi, *Eurycoma longifolia*
Overview
Eurycoma longifolia, commonly known as Tongkat Ali or Longjack, is a plant native to Southeast Asia, recognized for its use in traditional medicine to enhance libido and virility. This herbal supplement, classified as an adaptogen, is primarily utilized to boost male sexual health, increase testosterone levels, and improve physical performance. The standardized extract LJ100® is particularly notable for its rich content of bioactive compounds such as glycosaponins and eurypeptides. While research on Eurycoma longifolia is expanding, revealing promising benefits particularly for testosterone enhancement and sexual function, the overall quality of evidence varies. Many studies show significant effects, yet limitations like small sample sizes and bias require further investigation to comprehensively understand its efficacy.
Benefits
Evidence-based benefits of *Eurycoma longifolia* include: 1. **Increased Testosterone Levels**: Clinical trials indicate a substantial increase in serum testosterone, with one study showing a 46.82% increase in men after one month of supplementation with 200 mg of LJ100®. 2. **Enhanced Muscle Strength and Mass**: Research supports a notable increase in muscle strength and fat-free mass, with a 100 mg/day dosage resulting in a 6.8% increase in bench press strength. 3. **Improved Sexual Health**: Improvements in erectile function and sexual desire have been documented, particularly in aging males suffering from low testosterone. 4. **Infertility**: A study indicated that 200 mg/day for three months improved sperm quality dramatically, suggesting benefits for men with fertility issues. 5. **Fat Mass Reduction**: Some evidence points to reduced fat mass in overweight subjects. These benefits seem particularly pronounced among aging males and athletes, with clinically significant findings across several studies.
How it works
*Eurycoma longifolia* is believed to increase testosterone production by acting on the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis. The bioactive compounds, glycosaponins and eurypeptides, may facilitate this process, potentially through stimulating androgen production. Additionally, its adaptogenic properties may assist the body in managing stress, which can indirectly influence hormone levels. These interactions contribute to its testosterone-boosting abilities and improvements in sexual health.
Side effects
Generally considered safe when used within recommended dosages, *Eurycoma longifolia* has minimal reported side effects. Common side effects (>5%) are largely undocumented, with studies showing no significant adverse events. Uncommon and rare side effects are similarly scarce in the literature. However, caution is advised when combining with other medications affecting hormone levels due to limited data on drug interactions. There are no well-documented contraindications, but it may be prudent for individuals with hormone-sensitive conditions to avoid it. Special precautions should be taken for pregnant or breastfeeding women, as well as individuals with certain pre-existing medical conditions, who should consult healthcare professionals before use.
Dosage
The effective dosage of *Eurycoma longifolia* typically ranges from 100 mg to 200 mg per day, with research indicating 200 mg/day as optimal for significant therapeutic effects. The supplement is usually taken in divided doses, such as 100 mg in the morning and 100 mg in the afternoon. While no maximum safe dose is strictly defined, doses of up to 200 mg/day have shown minimal adverse effects. The standardized extract LJ100® is recommended for its consistent bioactive content, although factors influencing absorption and hydration levels should be considered.
FAQs
Is *Eurycoma longifolia* safe?
Generally considered safe at recommended doses, ongoing studies are needed for long-term safety and potential interactions.
When should I take it?
It is recommended to take it in divided doses, preferably in the morning and early afternoon with adequate hydration.
What results can I expect?
Users can expect improvements in testosterone levels, muscle strength, and sexual health, though individual experiences may vary.
Are there misconceptions about it?
It's not a quick-fix supplement; benefits often emerge after weeks to months of consistent use.
Research Sources
- https://www.termedia.pl/Effects-of-Eurycoma-longifolia-Jack-supplementation-on-eccentric-leg-press-exercise-induced-muscle-damage-in-rugby-players,78,47766,1,1.html – This double-blind RCT involving rugby players assessed muscle damage post-exercise. Though it found no significant changes in testosterone or cortisol levels, other studies noted improvements in muscle strength, indicating a positive impact over longer supplementation periods.
- https://www.researchgate.net/publication/301679475_Eurycoma_Longifolia_as_a_Potential_Adoptogen_of_Male_Sexual_Health_A_Systematic_Review_on_Human_Clinical_Studies – This systematic review consolidates various studies on *Eurycoma longifolia's* effects on male sexual health. It reports significant improvements in testosterone and sexual function metrics, while also acknowledging the need for more standardized and extensive research methodologies.
- https://lj100.com/science/ – The official site for LJ100® presents evidence from randomized controlled trials, indicating substantial benefits in testosterone levels and sexual health for men aged 50 to 70 suffering from low testosterone, while addressing biases and limitations in some studies.