Tongkat Ali: Benefits, Uses, Dosage, and Side Effects
, by Dr. Eric Snow
In this article, we’ll discuss Tongkat Ali, including its common uses, benefits, and side effects. Other common names for this supplement include longjack, Malaysian ginseng, and tung saw.
What is Tongkat Ali (longjack)?
Tongkat Ali is a natural herbal supplement derived from the roots of the Eurycoma longifolia, or longjack, plant. Eurycoma longifolia is a flowering shrub native to Southeast Asia. Traditionally, extracts from the longjack plant have been used in parts of Malaysia, Vietnam, and Indonesia as a treatment for malaria, intestinal parasites, and male infertility. The active compounds (eurycomanone and related quassinoids) are why standardization matters, since a cheap extract can contain very little of them.
Tongkat Ali: Uses and Benefits
In the United States, Tongkat Ali is often used as a supplement for stress relief, testosterone support, and healthy male libido.
Tongkat Ali acts on the endocrine system–a collection of hormone-producing glands that serves as the body’s messenger service. The endocrine system regulates mood, energy metabolism, growth, and reproduction, among other functions.
Boost testosterone production
Studies suggest that Tongkat Ali boosts testosterone by activating the adrenal glands and supporting production of Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), a hormone that drives testosterone production.
Tongkat Ali also drives the production of free testosterone (the most usable form) by reducing SHBG (Sex Hormone-Binding Globulin), a binding hormone that limits the availability of testosterone.
While many of us associate testosterone with male sexual health, it also plays an essential role in muscle growth, metabolism, and mood regulation, for both men and women.
As we age, testosterone levels naturally decrease. This can lead to reduced libido, lower energy, and slower muscle growth. By supporting your body’s natural testosterone production, you can help restore youthful energy and muscle strength.
Concerned about your testosterone levels? Learn the signs of low testosterone with our free Male Hormone Quick Check.
If you’re ready to take the next step and supercharge your body’s natural testosterone production, we recommend Dr. Eric Snow’s Male Hormone Bundle. In addition to Tongkat Ali, the Male Hormone bundle contains Wheat Germ Oil for muscular health, and Symplex M, a proprietary blend of peptides and nucleotides specifically formulated for men.
Relieve stress
In 1999, a study found that mice dosed with Tongkat Ali showed a similar reduction in anxiety symptoms as those dosed with a common anti-anxiety medication. In 2013, another study conducted among adults with moderate stress found that a daily Tongkat Ali supplement of 200mg reduced stress hormones in saliva samples by 16% as compared to placebo. Trial participants also reported significantly less anger, tension, and stress after taking Tongkat Ali.
While more human trials are still needed, these results are promising.
Tongkat Ali: Side Effects
Side effects are usually mild, but can include:
- Insomnia (if taken late)
- Restlessness
- Irritability
- Mild stomach upset
This supplement may also cause sudden drops in glucose levels. Do not take Tongkat Ali if you are pregnant or nursing. The main safety lever here is supplement quality and standardization. We cover this extensively in Is Tongkat Ali Safe?
Tongkat Ali: Summary
Common uses and benefits of Tongkat Ali:
- Supports testosterone production
- Helps regulate mood
- May boost libido
- May help build and maintain muscle
- May help regulate stress
Our Pick: Standard Process Tongkat Ali
We always recommend Standard Process Tongkat Ali, a standardized, practitioner-grade formula. There is no mystery sourcing, no heavy metal risk, and you get a consistent dose every time.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is tongkat ali good for?
Men use Tongkat Ali to support healthy testosterone already within a normal range, along with energy, libido, and vitality.*
(These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.)
Is tongkat ali the same as longjack?
Yes. Longjack is another common name for Tongkat Ali (Eurycoma longifolia).
How long does tongkat ali take to work?
It varies from person to person, but most people give it a few weeks of consistent daily use before they start noticing its effects.
How much tongkat ali should I take?
As a general rule, you should follow the dosage printed on the product label or follow your practitioner's recommendation. Also, many people cycle off periodically rather than taking it indefinitely.
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