Tongkat Ali
Eurycoma longifolia (Longjack)
Southeast Asian herb with evidence for supporting healthy testosterone levels, energy, and stress resilience.
Tongkat Ali is a flowering plant native to Southeast Asia, traditionally used as an aphrodisiac and energy tonic. Research shows it may support healthy testosterone levels, particularly in men with suboptimal levels or high stress. Also shows adaptogenic properties, helping manage cortisol and stress response.
Mechanisms of Action
Testosterone Support
May support natural testosterone production
Cortisol Modulation
Helps balance the stress hormone cortisol
Recommended Dose
200-400mg standardized extract
Optimal Timing
- Morning
- With or without food
Can be taken without food
Best Form
Standardized root extract (100:1 or 200:1)
Alternatives: Root powder (requires higher doses)
Standardized extracts are more reliable. Look for products tested for heavy metals and contaminants.
Duration
Minimum: 4 weeks
Optimal: 8 weeks
Cycling: 5 days on, 2 days off. Or 4 weeks on, 1 week off. Cycling may prevent tolerance.
Note: Some prefer taking in the morning due to potential energizing effects. Standardized to eurycomanone content (1-2%).
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Testosterone Support
May increase total and free testosterone
Energy Boost
Improved energy and reduced fatigue
Stress Reduction
Lower stress and improved mood
Avoid — affects hormones
Use with caution; may affect hormone levels
Who Should NOT Take This
- Hormone-sensitive cancers
- Heart conditions
- Immune disorders
Drug Interactions
May have additive effects
May affect blood pressure
May affect blood sugar
Possible Side Effects
Tip: Take in morning; reduce dose
Tip: Reduce dose
Tip: May be normal; reduce dose if uncomfortable
Warnings
- Quality varies significantly — many products are adulterated
- Not appropriate for those with hormone-sensitive conditions
- May affect sleep if taken late in day
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Zinc
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Cistanche
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Maca
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Top studies from 15+ peer-reviewed papers
George A et al. • Phytotherapy research : PTR (2016)
“This study is registered in UMIN-CTR (UMIN000011753).Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.”
Key Findings:
- The numbers of total, naïve, and CD4(+) T cells were also higher in the TA group than those in P group (p < 0.05).
- No severe adverse events were observed.
- The results suggest that ingestion of the root water extract of TA (Physta®) enhances comprehensive immunity in both middle-aged men and women.
- This study is registered in UMIN-CTR (UMIN000011753).Copyright © 2016 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Ye DN et al. • Zhongguo Zhong yao za zhi = Zhongguo zhongyao zazhi = China journal of Chinese materia medica (2024)
“This study aims to facilitate the compatible use and product development of Tongkat Ali while providing reference for introducing it as a new TCM resource and studying the TCM properties of ginseng plants abroad.”
Key Findings:
- Tongkat Ali has the main functions of tonifying kidney and replenishing essence, invigorating spleen and replenishing Qi, and soothing liver and relieving depression.
- The recommended dosage and usage of this medicine are 2-10 g daily and decoction with water, respectively.
- This study aims to facilitate the compatible use and product development of Tongkat Ali while providing reference for introducing it as a new TCM resource and studying the TCM properties of ginseng plants abroad.
Leisegang K et al. • Phytotherapy Research (2022)
“Tongkat Ali supplementation consistently elevated testosterone levels and improved physical function markers including grip strength and muscular endurance in aging men.”
Key Findings:
- Consistent elevation of free and total testosterone levels across clinical studies
- Improved physical function including grip strength and muscular endurance
- Positive effects on body composition with reduced body fat percentage
Leisegang K et al. • Medicina (Kaunas, Lithuania) (2022)
“Although more research is required before its use in clinical practice, this may represent a safe and promising therapeutic option, particularly in hypogonadal men.”
Key Findings:
- A significant improvement in total testosterone levels after E. longifolia treatment was mostly reported in both healthy volunteers and hypogonadal men.
- The random model effect revealed a significant increase (SMD = 1.352, 95% CI 0.565 to 2.138, p = 0.001) in the total testosterone levels in men receiving E. longifolia supplementation, which was confirmed in the hypogonadism subgroup.
- Conclusions: This systematic review and meta-analysis of the literature supports the possible use of E. longifolia supplementation for enhancing testosterone production.
- Although more research is required before its use in clinical practice, this may represent a safe and promising therapeutic option, particularly in hypogonadal men.
Balasubramanian A et al. • The journal of sexual medicine (2019)
“Our investigation revealed that human studies evaluating the efficacy of ED-S ingredients are limited and have yielded no definitive findings of the effects on ED.”
Key Findings:
- Our literature review identified 413 studies involving the 21 identified ingredients, of which 59 (16%) involved human subjects.
- Among these 69 human studies, only 12 (17%) investigated supplement ingredients individually and reported improvement in ED.
- Our investigation revealed that human studies evaluating the efficacy of ED-S ingredients are limited and have yielded no definitive findings of the effects on ED.
- Patients considering ED-S use should receive appropriate counseling, given the prevalence of disingenuous reviews and the ready availability of Food and Drug Administration-approved drug therapies.
Study Type Distribution
Goals This Supplement Supports
Related Goals
This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting any supplement.