Educational guide
Tongkat ali: Benefits and side effects
There are various purported benefits of Tongkat ali. These include improvement in male sexual performance, bone health, and stress reduction. However, the research is inconclusive. Research has been done into Tongkat ali’s properties. However, people should be
This guide cannot diagnose a condition or recommend a personal treatment plan. Discuss medical questions with a qualified professional.
There are various purported benefits of Tongkat ali. These include improvement in male sexual performance, bone health, and stress reduction. However, the research is inconclusive.
Research has been done into Tongkat ali’s properties. However, people should be cautious about trying it if they have certain health conditions or are taking specific medications.
Keep reading to learn more about Tongkat ali’s traditional uses and the scientific evidence regarding its potential benefits and side effects.
Eurycoma longifolia, or Tongkat ali, is a shrubby tree
Other common names for E. longifolia are Long Jack, Malaysian ginseng, and Ali’s Umbrella.
There are, in fact, three other plant species that people may refer to as Tongkat ali. These are Entomophthora apiculata, Polyalthia bullata, and Goniothalamus. This article, however, will focus onE. longifolia.
People tend to use the roots, bark, and fruits of the flowering plant to make remedies. A
- antimalarial
- antibacterial
- antidiabetic
- antipyretic, meaning it can reduce a fever
There are claims that it may also help with the following:
- relieving stress and tension
- enhancing physical performance
- restoring energy
- treating impotence and decreased virility in males
- treating postpartum depression and fatigue in females after childbirth
Tongkat ali may have health benefits for certain conditions.
The following sections look at some of these conditions in more detail. However, it is important to note that more research in humans is required to determine the efficacy and safety of using Tongkat ali.
Male fertility and sexual performance
Some research indicates that E. longifolia may enhance male fertility and sexual performance.
According to an older
- increased semen volumes, sperm count, sperm viability, and sperm motility
- increased production of testosterone
- enhanced erectile function and sexual performance
A
Ergogenic aid
Athletes sometimes use ergogenic aids to enhance their performance. E. longifolia may act as an ergogenic aid because it decreases stress and increases testosterone levels, according to one
The researchers concluded that, with high dosages and long-term supplementation, E. longifolia might have some benefits for endurance performance.
A more recent
Bone health
A
More research on humans is necessary to understand the effect of E. longifolia on bone health.
Stress
An older 2013 study in the
The researchers saw significant improvements in anger, tension, and confusion in people taking the extract. Testosterone levels increased, and levels of the stress hormone cortisol decreased.
They concluded that Tongkat ali might be an effective remedy for modern-day chronic stress, sleep deprivation, and exercise training.
Another
A
Cancer
A
A
According to the
A
The same review concluded that scientists consider E. longifolia safe as long as people do not take it in high doses. The authors recommend taking 200 to 400 milligrams (mg) daily with caution, especially if the person is an older adult.
Experts recommend that people who have hormonal cancers be cautious of taking E. longifolia, as it may increase testosterone levels. Although laboratory studies have indicated beneficial effects, these effects may not be the same in the human body.
People taking medications to lower their blood glucose may wish to speak with their doctor before taking E. longifolia, as it may increase the effects of these medications.
According to the review, some sources advise people with certain conditions to avoid E. longifolia. These conditions include cancer, such as prostate cancer, heart disease, and kidney disease. People with weakened immune systems should also be cautious.
Tongkat ali seems to be a promising remedy for several health issues. Some research suggests that it is beneficial for male fertility, sexual performance, and stress. It might also be an effective ergogenic aid.
Some laboratory studies indicate the effectiveness of E. longifolia against cancer in test tubes. However, research also suggests that people with certain cancers avoid using it.
There are some safety issues for people who have certain health conditions and those who are taking specific medications. Therefore, it is best that a person check with their doctor before taking any herbal supplements.