Tongkat Ali, scientifically known as Eurycoma longifolia and sometimes referred to as Malaysian ginseng, is an herbal supplement with a variety of potential health benefits.

Main Benefits

1. Testosterone Boosting: Tongkat Ali is widely recognized for its ability to increase testosterone levels in men. The active component, eurycomanone, may enhance the production of androgen precursors and inhibit the enzyme aromatase, which converts testosterone into estrogen¹².
2. Aphrodisiac Properties: Traditionally used as an aphrodisiac, Tongkat Ali has been linked to improvements in sexual function, libido, and fertility³.
3. Stress Reduction: Studies have shown that Tongkat Ali can improve stress hormone profiles, reducing cortisol levels and improving mood states such as tension, anger, and confusion⁴.
4. Physical Performance: Research indicates that Tongkat Ali may enhance physical performance, increase muscle strength, and improve exercise endurance⁵.
5. Other Potential Uses: Although less studied, Tongkat Ali has been suggested to help with conditions like fatigue, blood pressure regulation, and fever reduction⁶.

Research Insights

• Effect on Testosterone Levels: A systematic review and meta-analysis showed a significant increase in total testosterone after Tongkat Ali supplementation, particularly in men with low baseline testosterone levels (hypogonadal men)⁷.
• Stress and Mood Improvement: A study involving moderately stressed subjects found significant reductions in cortisol levels and improvements in mood parameters after four weeks of supplementation⁴.
• Impact on Menopausal Women: There is ongoing research on the effects of Tongkat Ali on the well-being of perimenopausal and postmenopausal women, indicating its potential broader applications⁸.

Conclusion

Tongkat Ali has been traditionally used for various health benefits, ranging from enhancing male reproductive health to improving stress and physical performance. The evidence, while promising, varies in robustness, particularly due to variations in study design and potential conflicts of interest.

If you're considering Tongkat Ali supplementation, it's advisable to consult with a healthcare practitioner to ensure its appropriateness for your individual health needs.

Footnotes

1. Examine.com, 2023 ↩

2. Eurycoma longifolia (Jack) Improves Serum Total Testosterone in Men: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Clinical Trials ↩

3. Examine.com ↩

4. Effect of Tongkat Ali on stress hormones and psychological mood state in moderately stressed subjects - PubMed ↩ ↩²

5. Tongkat Ali as a potential herbal supplement for physically active male and female seniors--a pilot study - PubMed ↩

6. Review on a Traditional Herbal Medicine, Eurycoma longifolia Jack (Tongkat Ali): Its Traditional Uses, Chemistry, Evidence-Based Pharmacology and Toxicology ↩

7. Eurycoma longifolia (Jack) Improves Serum Total Testosterone in Men: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Clinical Trials ↩

8. Protocol for a randomised, double-blinded, placebo-controlled, parallel group study on the well-being of perimenopausal and postmenopausal women ↩

Tongkat Ali, also known as Eurycoma longifolia, has traditionally been used to address various health conditions, primarily in men. However, emerging research indicates that it may also have potential benefits for women. Here's a summary of the known effects and ongoing research:

Benefits for Women

1. Hormonal Balance and Menopause Management:

   • Eurycoma longifolia is being investigated for its potential to improve the well-being of perimenopausal and postmenopausal women by addressing symptoms related to hormonal imbalances¹. These symptoms can include hot flashes, mood swings, and decreased energy levels.

2. Stress and Mood Improvement:

   • Tongkat Ali has been shown to improve stress hormone profiles by reducing cortisol levels and increasing testosterone levels². This effect might be beneficial for women experiencing stress or mood disorders.

3. Enhanced Physical Performance:

   • Some studies suggest that Tongkat Ali might improve physical performance and muscle strength. A study on elderly individuals showed significant increases in muscle strength and blood testosterone levels in both men and women³.

Research Insights

• Perimenopausal and Postmenopausal Well-being:

  • A protocol has been established for a double-blinded, placebo-controlled study to investigate the effects of Eurycoma longifolia on the well-being of perimenopausal and postmenopausal women¹. This study aims to provide more concrete evidence of its efficacy in women experiencing menopause-related symptoms.

• Stress Hormone and Mood State:

  • In a study involving mildly stressed individuals, Tongkat Ali supplementation led to significant improvements in stress hormone profiles and mood states like tension, anger, and confusion². Although this study included both men and women, the benefits observed are likely applicable to women as well.

• Muscle Strength in Elderly Women:

  • A study on physically active elderly individuals, both male and female, indicated that Tongkat Ali supplementation could enhance muscle strength and alter hormone levels to favor increased free testosterone by reducing sex hormone-binding globulin³.

Conclusion

While most research has historically focused on the benefits of Tongkat Ali for men, recent studies have begun examining its potential benefits for women, particularly concerning hormonal balance, menopause management, stress reduction, and physical performance. However, more research is needed to fully understand and confirm these benefits.

If you are considering Tongkat Ali supplementation, it is best to consult with a healthcare provider to ensure it is appropriate for your specific health needs.

Footnotes

1. Protocol for a randomised, double-blinded, placebo-controlled, parallel group study on the well-being of perimenopausal and postmenopausal women ↩ ↩²

2. Effect of Tongkat Ali on stress hormones and psychological mood state in moderately stressed subjects - PubMed ↩ ↩²

3. Tongkat Ali as a potential herbal supplement for physically active male and female seniors--a pilot study - PubMed ↩ ↩²

Tongkat Ali (Eurycoma longifolia) is generally considered safe when used appropriately. However, as with any supplement, there can be potential side effects and adverse reactions. Here are some documented unwanted effects associated with Tongkat Ali:

Potential Side Effects

1. Gastrointestinal Issues:

   • Some users may experience gastrointestinal discomfort, including stomach pain, nausea, or diarrhea¹.

2. Sleep Disturbances:

   • Due to its stimulating effects, Tongkat Ali might cause insomnia or other sleep disturbances in some individuals. It is therefore advisable to avoid taking it late in the day².

3. Allergic Reactions:

   • Although rare, some individuals might experience allergic reactions, including rashes, itching, or swelling.

4. Increased Anxiety or Restlessness:

   • Due to its effects on hormonal balance and energy levels, some people might experience increased anxiety or restlessness³.

5. Hormonal Imbalances:

   • While Tongkat Ali is often used to balance hormones, improper use could potentially lead to hormonal imbalances. This might particularly affect women in terms of menstrual irregularities or exacerbated symptoms of hormonal disorders⁴.

Considerations and Precautions

1. Interactions with Medications:

   • Tongkat Ali might interact with other medications, particularly those affecting hormone levels or medications for mood disorders. It’s important to consult with a healthcare provider before combining Tongkat Ali with other treatments².

2. Dosage and Duration:

   • Most side effects are associated with inappropriate dosages or prolonged use. It is crucial to follow recommended dosages and consider taking breaks from supplementation.

3. Underlying Health Conditions:

   • Individuals with certain health conditions, including hormone-sensitive cancers, liver or kidney diseases, or heart conditions, should avoid using Tongkat Ali without medical supervision⁴.

Research Insights

• Toxicity and Safety Studies:
  • Acute toxicity studies in animals have shown that the LD50 (lethal dose for 50% of animals tested) for the alcoholic extract of E. longifolia is between 1500–2000 mg/kg, while the aqueous extract form has an LD50 of more than 3000 mg/kg⁵. Standard liver and renal function tests showed no adverse changes at normal daily doses and with chronic use, indicating a relatively high safety margin⁵.

Conclusion

While Tongkat Ali is associated with numerous potential health benefits, it is essential to use it responsibly to minimize the risk of unwanted effects. Consulting with a healthcare provider before starting Tongkat Ali supplementation is advisable, especially for individuals with underlying health concerns or those on medication.

Footnotes

1. Review on a Traditional Herbal Medicine, Eurycoma longifolia Jack (Tongkat Ali): Its Traditional Uses, Chemistry, Evidence-Based Pharmacology and Toxicology ↩

2. Examine.com, 2023 ↩ ↩²

3. Effect of Tongkat Ali on stress hormones and psychological mood state in moderately stressed subjects - PubMed ↩

4. Examine.com, 2023 ↩ ↩²

5. Review on a Traditional Herbal Medicine, Eurycoma longifolia Jack (Tongkat Ali): Its Traditional Uses, Chemistry, Evidence-Based Pharmacology and Toxicology ↩ ↩²