Root of the Eurycoma longifolia shrub from South-East Asia.
Why it’s used: Traditionally used to support male vitality and energy.
Tongkat ali is the root of Eurycoma longifolia, a slender shrub that grows in the rainforests of Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand and Vietnam. The name means Ali's walking stick in Malay, a nod to the long, twisted roots. It is also known as Malaysian ginseng or pasak bumi, and it has an intensely bitter taste.
In South-East Asian tradition the root is boiled and drunk as a tonic, and tongkat ali is traditionally used to support male vitality and energy. In supplements it usually appears as a standardised water extract of the root, often freeze-dried, and the label may state the content of eurycomanone, one of its key compounds and a useful guide to an extract's strength.
Researchers have studied tongkat ali in a number of trials in men. A 2022 meta-analysis of five small randomised trials found higher total testosterone levels in men taking it, especially those with low levels to begin with, while some other trials found no effect. The studies were small and varied in design, so larger trials are needed before firm conclusions can be drawn.
3 findings behind this ingredient. Hover a card for the detail and the source.
Systematic review of nine studies with five randomised trials in the meta-analysis. Eurycoma longifolia increased total testosterone (SMD 1.352), and the effect was confirmed in the hypogonadism subgroup.
Randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled multicentre trial in 105 men given 100 mg, 200 mg or placebo for 12 weeks. Total testosterone rose versus placebo in both groups and ageing-male symptom and fatigue scores fell; free testosterone did not differ between groups.
Six-month randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled four-arm trial in 45 men. Both interventions improved erectile function, with the largest gains when Eurycoma longifolia was combined with concurrent training.
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Some trials have found higher testosterone in men taking tongkat ali, particularly those with low levels to begin with, while others found no change. It is traditionally used to support male vitality and energy, but the research so far is small and mixed.
Most studies and supplements use 200 to 400 mg of standardised root extract a day. Follow the dose on the label, as extract strengths vary. If you have a health condition or take medicines, check with your GP or pharmacist first.
In trials, tongkat ali has generally been well tolerated, with occasional reports of stomach upset and itching. Very high doses caused liver changes in rats. It is meant for adult men, and anyone with a health condition or taking medicines should check with a GP or pharmacist first.
Videos from doctors, research scientists and registered dietitians, for general education. They are independent of Nutra Formulations, do not refer to our products and are not medical advice for you.
The Holy Grail for ED, Low T and Infertility? Tongkat Ali (Longjack) Benefits
Dr Rena Malik, MD, urologist · Rena Malik, M.D. on YouTube
Information only, not medical advice. If you take medication, are pregnant or breastfeeding, speak to your GP or pharmacist first.
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