Do not let the name scare you. Tongkat Ali is a herbal extract that has been used widely in Southeast Asian medicine for centuries. It effectively treats a wide range of ailments, including bacterial infections, fever, and erectile dysfunction. Other studies also suggest that the extract relieves stress, boosts male fertility, and enhances body composition.

Where is it sourced?

Tongkat Ali is a herbal extract from the roots of a green shrub tree known as Eurycoma longifolia. It is found in southeast Asia. It has been helpful in traditional medicine in Malaysia, Vietnam,  Indonesia, and other Asian countries for hundreds of years to treat conditions like fever, infections, malaria, erectile dysfunction, and male infertility.

The perks of the herbal extract stem from the active compounds of the plant it comes from. Tongkat Ali contains alkaloids, flavonoids, and other ingredients that serve as antioxidants. Antioxidants are active compounds that prevent cellular damage caused by free radicals, but they can benefit your body in many different ways. Tongkat Ali is consumed in pills or drinks containing the herbal extract.

The health benefits of tongkat ali

Can improve male fertility and increase testosterone levels

The ability of Tongkat Ali to improve testosterone levels in men with low levels is well known and documented. Low levels of testosterone can be caused by aging, chemotherapy, infection of the testicles, radiation elements, some medicines, and even chronic alcoholism. Low testosterone levels result in low libido, erectile dysfunction, and low infertility in some men. Since Tongkat Ali increases testosterone levels, it can treat some of these issues.

According to a study in animals, Tongkat Ali stimulates sexual arousal, improving erectile dysfunction. It also boosts sperm motility and concentration; therefore, it can enhance male fertility.

May relieve stress

Tongkat Ali is believed to lower stress hormones in the body, anxiety and boost mood hormones. According to a study conducted in 1999, Tongkat Ali was effective in treating mood issues. It was compared to an antianxiety drug. In a study, 63 adults were supplemented with 200mg of Tongkat Ali daily and were found to have reduced levels of the stress hormone known as cortisol by 16%. Although the research is limited, the effects have been seen in humans. People who have used Tongkat Ali report less anger, stress, and tension.

Boosts body composition

Another benefit of Tongkat Ali is that it boosts body muscle mass and athletic performance. The herbal extract contains some compounds known as quassinoids, eurycolatone, eurycomanone, and eurycomaoside that help the body use its energy more efficiently, improve endurance and reduce fatigue. That means the Tongkat Ali supplements serve as ergogenic acid enhancing physical body composition.

Does Tongkat Ali have any side effects?

Various studies on the use of Tongkat Ali in human beings have not reported any side effects. However, no study has examined its long-term use, so it remains unclear if it is safe for use in the long term. Research is still limited, although some of its benefits have been proven.

The takeaway

It is good to consult with your healthcare provider if you are interested in taking Tongkat all supplements to ensure safety.