Tongkat Ali extract
Also known as: Tongkat Ali, Malaysian ginseng, Longjack, Eurycoma longifolia
Overview
Eurycoma longifolia, commonly known as Tongkat Ali, is a herbal extract derived from the root of a plant native to Southeast Asia. It is traditionally utilized for enhancing male sexual health, energy, and overall vitality. Its primary applications include improving erectile function, boosting testosterone levels, enhancing mood, and reducing fatigue. The herb contains bioactive compounds, notably quassinoids like eurycomanone, which are believed to be responsible for its therapeutic effects. While research on Tongkat Ali is moderately developed with several randomized controlled trials and systematic reviews, more extensive, large-scale studies are needed to provide conclusive evidence for all its purported benefits.
Benefits
Tongkat Ali has shown several evidence-based benefits. A systematic review and meta-analysis of 7 studies indicated a significant increase in serum total testosterone levels in men, particularly those with low baseline testosterone (<300 ng/dL), with a moderate to large effect size (SMD 1.352). For erectile function, a meta-analysis of 2 RCTs found no overall significant improvement, but a subgroup analysis revealed significant improvement in men with lower baseline erectile function. Animal studies suggest potential benefits for sleep quality and mood, possibly reducing fatigue, though human data are currently limited. Additionally, some in vitro studies have reported antibacterial activity, but the clinical relevance of these findings is not yet clear.
How it works
Tongkat Ali is believed to increase testosterone levels by stimulating Leydig cells in the testes and modulating the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis. It may also reduce the binding of testosterone to sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG), thereby increasing the amount of free, bioavailable testosterone. Bioactive quassinoids, such as eurycomanone, are thought to exert adaptogenic effects, which can improve the body's response to stress and enhance energy metabolism. The absorption and bioavailability of Tongkat Ali can vary significantly depending on the extract formulation, with standardized extracts containing quantified eurycomanone content generally preferred for consistent effects.
Side effects
Tongkat Ali is generally considered safe for healthy adults when consumed within recommended dosages. Documented common side effects are not well-established but may include mild gastrointestinal discomfort. Rare side effects and long-term safety data are limited, necessitating caution with prolonged use. Potential drug interactions include altered absorption of propranolol and possibly other medications metabolized by the liver, as suggested by some research. Due to a lack of sufficient safety data, Tongkat Ali is contraindicated during pregnancy and lactation. Individuals with pre-existing medical conditions or those taking other medications should consult a healthcare professional before starting supplementation.
Dosage
Effective dosages of standardized Tongkat Ali extract in clinical trials typically range from 200 mg to 400 mg per day. These extracts are often standardized to contain 1-2% eurycomanone, which is considered a key active compound. The minimum effective dose for testosterone enhancement appears to be around 200 mg per day. While optimal dosing and timing require further research, benefits are generally observed after 4-12 weeks of consistent supplementation. Absorption may be enhanced when taken with food. It is important to note that formulations vary widely, and consumers should look for products with clear standardization. Upper limits and safety thresholds for long-term use are not yet definitively established.
FAQs
Is Tongkat Ali effective for low testosterone?
Yes, especially in men with clinically low testosterone, with moderate evidence supporting increased serum levels. Benefits are more pronounced in individuals with baseline deficiencies.
Does it improve erectile dysfunction?
Evidence is mixed; benefits may be limited to men with lower baseline erectile function, suggesting it might be more effective for mild to moderate cases.
Is it safe long-term?
Long-term safety data are insufficient. Short-term use (up to 12 weeks) appears safe in healthy adults, but prolonged use requires more research.
When to expect results?
Improvements in testosterone levels and sexual function typically become noticeable after 4-12 weeks of consistent supplementation.
Research Sources
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26365449/ – This meta-analysis of two RCTs (n=139) investigated Tongkat Ali's effect on erectile function. It found no overall significant improvement but noted a significant positive effect in a subgroup of men with lower baseline erectile function, suggesting targeted benefits.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9415500/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis of 7 studies (n>200) concluded that Tongkat Ali significantly increases total testosterone levels (SMD 1.352, p=0.001). The effect was more pronounced in men with low baseline testosterone, despite high heterogeneity among studies.
- https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/An-Evidence-Based-Systematic-Review-of-Tongkat-Ali-Ulbricht-Conquer/efce2ca8125997cfee4f5e440538d0bc5993d2b6 – This systematic review provides an overview of Tongkat Ali's antibacterial effects, potential drug interactions, and general safety profile. It integrates various study types, highlighting both promising findings and areas needing further robust clinical investigation.
- https://academic.oup.com/sleepadvances/article/5/1/zpae047/7710213 – This animal RCT in mice explored Tongkat Ali's impact on sleep. It reported improved sleep-wake cycles and enhanced slow-wave activity, suggesting potential benefits for sleep quality, though human translation requires further research.
