Lj100 Eurycoma Longifolia Extract
Also known as: Tongkat Ali, Longjack, *Eurycoma longifolia*
Overview
*Eurycoma longifolia*, commonly referred to as Tongkat Ali or Longjack, is a medicinal plant native to Southeast Asia. Traditionally used in herbal medicine, it has applications ranging from treating fevers to enhancing male fertility and addressing erectile dysfunction. The root of the plant is the principal source of its extract, which is rich in bioactive compounds like eurycomanone, eurycomanol, and longilactone. There is a growing body of research surrounding its efficacy, particularly in increasing testosterone levels and improving overall male health. The extract is available in various forms, predominantly standardized aqueous extracts like Physta®, which have garnered attention in clinical trials. While some of the evidence is robust and well-supported by randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and systematic reviews, further long-term studies are needed to comprehensively evaluate its safety and efficacy.
Benefits
The primary benefits of *Eurycoma longifolia* supplementation include a significant increase in testosterone levels, as evidenced by systematic reviews indicating a mean effect size (SMD) of 1.352 with a confidence interval of 95% (0.565 to 2.138; p=0.001). Additionally, RCTs have reported improvements in quality of life and reduction in fatigue, especially in aging men. Secondary effects noted in preliminary studies include potential anxiolytic properties and improving erectile function in men with lower baseline erectile scores. Most notably, hypogonadal men have shown the most pronounced benefits, as have older men experiencing fatigue and diminished quality of life.
How it works
*Eurycoma longifolia* may work primarily by influencing hormonal balance, particularly testosterone production. Although the exact mechanisms are not fully elucidated, compounds such as eurycomanone and longilactone may interact with hormonal pathways that enhance testosterone synthesis in the endocrine system. Additionally, its effects on the central nervous system suggest potential anxiolytic properties that may mitigate stress and anxiety levels, establishing a holistic benefit to mental and physical health.
Side effects
Generally, *Eurycoma longifolia* is deemed safe for short-term use with minimal reported side effects, often well-tolerated in doses utilized in clinical settings. However, individual responses do vary, and some adverse effects such as mild gastrointestinal discomfort may occur. Acute and subacute toxicity studies suggest no harmful effects at recommended dosages; however, caution is advised as potential cytotoxic effects have been noted at high doses in vitro, although not commonly observed in human subjects. Drug interactions are an important consideration, particularly with medications like propranolol, for which bioavailability may be affected. Furthermore, pregnant or breastfeeding women are advised against taking this supplement due to insufficient research confirming its safety in these populations.
Dosage
Research suggests a minimum effective dose of around 100 mg per day of a standardized *Eurycoma longifolia* extract, with optimal dosages typically ranging from 100 mg to 200 mg daily—200 mg reflecting more pronounced effects on testosterone stimulation and quality of life improvements. Doses as high as 1.2 grams have been studied without significant adverse effects; however, precautions should be taken when moving beyond standard recommendations. Standardized aqueous extracts, such as Physta®, are preferred for efficacy, typically taken once daily. While absorption may be influenced by the extraction method, interactions with other medications can also play a role, necessitating careful monitoring.
FAQs
Is *Eurycoma longifolia* safe?
Yes, it is generally safe in the short term, but long-term effects are not well-studied, especially in pregnant or breastfeeding women.
How should I take it?
It can be taken once daily, and optimal timing is not specified; consistency is key.
What results can I expect?
Within a few weeks, users may see increased testosterone levels, improved quality of life, and reduced fatigue.
Is it a steroid?
No, *Eurycoma longifolia* is not a steroid but may enhance natural testosterone levels without the risks associated with anabolic steroids.
Research Sources
- https://foodandnutritionresearch.net/index.php/fnr/article/view/5647 – This randomized controlled trial assessed the effects of *Eurycoma longifolia* extract on quality of life, demonstrating significant improvements in fatigue and testosterone levels among aging men.
- https://magistralbr.caldic.com/storage/product-files/445511096.pdf – This systematic review and meta-analysis focused on the impact of *Eurycoma longifolia* on testosterone levels, concluding a significant increase in total testosterone levels in men.
- https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/tongkat-ali-longjack-review – Healthline provided a comprehensive overview of Tongkat Ali, discussing its traditional uses, potential benefits, and safety concerns based on available research.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36013514/ – This systematic review found moderate evidence supporting *Eurycoma longifolia*'s role in improving erectile function, particularly in men with lower baseline scores.
- https://www.urotoday.com/recent-abstracts/urologic-oncology/investigative-urology/84872-efficacy-of-tongkat-ali-eurycoma-longifolia-on-erectile-function-improvement-systematic-review-and-meta-analysis-of-randomized-controlled-trials.html – A systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the efficacy of *Eurycoma longifolia* on erectile dysfunction, indicating positive outcomes in clinical studies with consistent methodologies.