The tongkat ali, whose scientific name corresponds to Eurycoma longifolia, is a plant known in different ways, depending on where we find it. While in Indonesia, it is called pasak bumi, in the United States, Canada, and Australia, it is often called long jack.
This plant is native to Southeast Asia, and Indonesia has the largest population, with smaller concentrations in nations such as Thailand, Malaysia, Vietnam, and Laos. In the same way, it stands out for reaching a height of up to 12 meters in a period of between 10 and 15 years, adopting a reddish color when ripe.
Now, the tree’s root is attributed to compounds used for centuries for medicinal purposes, either to increase testosterone levels or treat erectile dysfunction, among other uses. Currently, it can be found as an extract or in capsules.
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Potential health benefits of tongkat ali
Traditional medicine in some Southeast Asian countries uses tongkat ali to treat fever, malaria, and male infertility. Based on the available evidence, let’s look at some of its other possible health effects.
1. Increases testosterone levels and improves fertility
A study published in Therapeutic Advances in Urology revealed that testosterone levels decline due to aging, chemotherapy, infections in the testicles, the action of certain medications, and diseases such as chronic alcoholism and sleep apnea.
The same research found that having low testosterone levels can lead to intense sexual desire, erectile dysfunction, and even infertility. However, a study published in the medical journal Andrologia suggested that Tongkat ali may increase levels of this hormone.
Similarly, research in 76 older men with low testosterone levels proposed that taking 200 milligrams of tongkat ali extract daily for one month significantly increases hormone levels by 90%.
Likewise, an investigation in animals showed that the consumption of Eurycoma longifolia is capable of increasing sexual stimulation and improving erectile dysfunction.
Lastly, scientific evidence shows that Tongkat Ali can also increase sperm motility and concentration, thus improving male fertility. According to a study published in the Asian Journal of Andrology, the intake of 400 milligrams enhances sperm motility by 44%.
2. Reduces stress
A study published in the Japanese Journal of Pharmacology found that tongkat ali can act as an anxiolytic drug and alleviate anxiety symptoms in mice. However, although these same effects have been observed in humans, more research is required.
On the other hand, an investigation of 63 adults with moderate stress found that taking supplements of 200 milligrams of tongkat ali extract daily lowered levels of cortisol, the stress hormone, by 16%. Likewise, the participants experienced less anxiety.
3. It can improve body composition
It has been shown that Tongkat Ali can function as an ergogenic aid, a substance capable of improving sports performance and increasing body mass. This is because it is a source of quassinoids, chemical compounds that allow the body to use energy more efficiently, reducing fatigue and increasing endurance.
A study of 14 men on a strength training program revealed that taking 100 milligrams of Tongkat ali daily can significantly increase lean body mass and fat loss.
Similarly, research in 25 older adults found that taking 400 milligrams of tongkat ali extract daily increased muscle strength. However, a cyclist study concluded that a drink with a little of this plant does not improve performance or power but that its action is similar to water.
Considerations and side effects of tongkat ali
Although the consumption of Tongkat Ali in humans has not produced side effects, it should be noted that the research carried out is scarce. On the other hand, a study published in Food and Chemical Toxicology observed that the root from Malaysia has mercury levels that are 26% higher than the recommended limit.
In general, this could cause mercury poisoning, the symptoms of which include mood swings, as well as memory and motor skills problems.
However, since it has not been tested in children, pregnant or lactating women, it is unknown if it can be safe, and its consumption is not recommended in these population groups.
Dosage and recommendations
According to a study published in Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, eating 300 milligrams of Tongkat Ali daily may be safe. Similarly, research published in Molecules and Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine found that taking up to 1.2 grams of its extract is safe for adults.
Although no studies have examined long-term use, for this reason, the service of chronicity is not specific.
Tongkat Ali: studied erectile dysfunction and infertility
Eurycoma longifolia is a plant native to Southeast Asia that can reach 12 meters. Despite its height, its root is used for medicinal purposes.
For centuries, the traditional medicines of the different countries in this area have used Tongkat ali to reduce fever and treat malaria, erectile dysfunction, and male infertility.
For its part, science has shown that it is effective in increasing testosterone levels and, therefore, helping against impotence and infertility. Other science-backed benefits include stress reduction and improved body composition.
However, despite being considered safe to consume through supplements and extracts, it could be harmful due to its high mercury content. Also, it is not recommended for children, pregnant and lactating women.