Tongkat Ali (Eurycoma longifolia): Benefits, Uses, Dosage & Risks

Tongkat Ali, botanically known as Eurycoma longifolia, is a medicinal plant native to Southeast Asia, particularly Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, and Vietnam. It is traditionally celebrated for its wide array of health-boosting properties. Over recent years, Tongkat Ali has gained popularity as a dietary supplement, especially among those seeking to improve vitality, athletic performance, and hormonal health. This article offers in-depth insight into Tongkat Ali’s health benefits, traditional uses, proper dosage, reported side effects, and important precautions.

What is Tongkat Ali?

Tongkat Ali, often referred to as longjack, pasak bumi, or Ali’s walking stick, is a shrub-like tree with roots cherished in Southeast Asian folk medicine. The plant has been used for centuries to treat a range of health conditions, with modern research beginning to shed light on its efficacy and safety profile.

Botanical Background

• Scientific name: Eurycoma longifolia
• Common names: Tongkat Ali, Longjack, Pasak Bumi
• Family: Simaroubaceae
• Native regions: Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, Vietnam

Traditional Uses of Tongkat Ali

The roots of Tongkat Ali have been employed in traditional medicine to address a wide spectrum of conditions.

• Enhancing male sexual health and virility
• Managing malaria and fever
• Increasing energy and stamina
• Relieving aches, pains, and other general complaints

These practices stem from the plant’s perceived adaptogenic, aphrodisiac, and energizing effects.

Scientifically Backed Health Benefits

Recent clinical and pre-clinical studies have begun to explore the efficacy of Tongkat Ali for various health outcomes. While more robust clinical trials are needed, available evidence points to several promising benefits:

1. Male Fertility Enhancement

• Some human and animal studies suggest Tongkat Ali can improve sperm concentration, motility, and semen volume, thereby potentially addressing fertility issues in men.
• May help in managing age-related male hypogonadism.

2. Testosterone and Hormonal Health

• Tongkat Ali may positively influence testosterone levels, especially in individuals with low baseline levels.
• Supplementation is commonly used by men for supporting sexual health, boosting libido, and improving sexual performance.

3. Increased Strength, Muscle Mass, and Physical Performance

• Athletes and fitness enthusiasts often use Tongkat Ali for its role in enhancing muscle strength and promoting lean muscle mass formation.
• May contribute to reductions in body fat and improvements in endurance and physical energy.

4. Reduced Stress and Improved Mood

• Adaptogenic properties: Some small studies indicate Tongkat Ali may reduce cortisol (a stress hormone), anxiety, and symptoms of mood disturbance.
• Potential to promote an overall sense of well-being.

5. Antimalarial and Antimicrobial Effects

• Tongkat Ali’s traditional use as an antimalarial has been partially supported by lab research, showing potential activity against malaria parasites and some bacteria.

6. Other Claimed Benefits (Requires More Study)

• May help manage blood glucose levels
• Pain relief and anti-fever (antipyretic) effects
• General immune support

Note: While these results are encouraging, further larger-scale, high-quality clinical trials are needed to fully confirm the efficacy and safety of Tongkat Ali for these uses.

How Does Tongkat Ali Work? (Mechanisms of Action)

Tongkat Ali root contains several bioactive compounds thought to drive its potential health benefits, including:

• Quassinoids: Eurycomanone and related compounds (considered the main bioactives for hormonal and fertility effects)
• Alkaloids
• Glycosaponins
• Polysaccharides

The precise mechanisms are still being researched, but some proposed actions include:

• Stimulating endogenous (natural) testosterone production
• Improving sperm production and maturation
• Enhancing muscle protein synthesis and recovery
• Reducing stress hormone (cortisol) levels

Recommended Dosage of Tongkat Ali

Dosing guidelines for Tongkat Ali can vary based on the supplement’s formulation, purpose, and user’s health status. There are no universally standardized official dosages; however, some general suggestions are available based on current research:

Note: Studies have generally used doses up to 400 mg of extract per day for short periods. Higher and prolonged doses have not been well studied in humans. It is strongly recommended to follow the manufacturer’s or healthcare provider’s directions for use.

Best Practices for Dosage

• Start with the lowest effective dose to assess tolerance.
• Monitor for any adverse symptoms and adjust dose accordingly.
• Consult with a qualified healthcare provider before initiating supplementation, especially if you are on medication or have health concerns.

Potential Side Effects and Safety Precautions

Tongkat Ali is considered relatively safe for short-term use at recommended dosages for most healthy adults; however, adverse effects can occur and safety over the long term remains uncertain.

Common Side Effects

• Insomnia or restlessness, especially at higher doses
• Irritability and mood changes
• Anxiety and increased aggression
• Gastrointestinal discomfort (nausea, abdominal pain, diarrhea)
• Headache
• Skin rash or itching (rare)

Severe or Rare Side Effects

• Potential acute liver injury (rare, usually self-limited and possibly linked to contaminated supplements or concurrent use of other substances)
• Possible DNA damage at very high doses (as shown in animal studies, not confirmed in humans)
• Heavy metal poisoning (mercury, lead) from contaminated or low-quality supplements

Contraindications & Warnings

• Not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women due to lack of safety data
• Children and adolescents should avoid use
• Individuals with chronic illnesses (kidney, liver, heart disease, diabetes) should seek medical advice first
• Should not be used by people with prostate or breast cancer, sleep apnea or those on immunosuppressant medications

Drug Interactions

• No severe interactions have been reported with prescription drugs; however, moderate and minor interactions with some herbal supplements (e.g., astragalus, echinacea, maitake) may occur
• Always discuss new supplements with your healthcare provider to avoid possible interactions or side effects

Risks of Contaminated or Poor-Quality Supplements

Testing of some Tongkat Ali products has detected heavy metals (mercury, lead) above recommended limits, particularly in those manufactured without stringent quality controls. Consuming contaminated products may lead to adverse effects including:

• Mood changes
• Motor skill problems
• Memory impairment

To minimize risk: Only purchase Tongkat Ali supplements from trusted, reputable brands that provide independent third-party testing for purity and contaminants.

Possible Mechanism of Side Effects

• Central nervous system stimulation leading to insomnia, restlessness, and agitation
• Potential immune system effects—uncommon liver-related side effects may indicate immunological mediation
• Direct GI irritation in sensitive individuals

Precautions & Recommendations

• Always follow recommended dosages and instructions on supplement labels.
• If you experience any adverse symptoms, discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional.
• Individuals with underlying medical conditions or those using prescription medications should discuss Tongkat Ali with their healthcare provider prior to use.
• Pregnant, nursing, or attempting to conceive? Avoid use due to lack of safety evidence.
• Children and adolescents should not use Tongkat Ali supplements.

Summary Table: Tongkat Ali at a Glance

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: What is the best time to take Tongkat Ali supplements?

A: Tongkat Ali is often best taken in the morning or early afternoon with food to minimize digestive discomfort and reduce the risk of sleeplessness or overstimulation.

Q2: How long does it take to experience benefits from Tongkat Ali?

A: Some users report noticeable effects—such as improved energy or libido—within a week, though full benefits, especially in hormone balance and fertility, may require several weeks of consistent use.

Q3: Is Tongkat Ali safe for women?

A: While some women may use Tongkat Ali for energy and stamina, its safety profile in women—especially those pregnant, breastfeeding, or with hormone-sensitive conditions—has not been established. Consultation with a healthcare provider is essential.

Q4: Can Tongkat Ali be used long-term?

A: Available research focuses on short-term use (up to a few months). Long-term safety has not been confirmed; periodic breaks in supplementation are recommended.

Q5: Can Tongkat Ali supplements help with bodybuilding?

A: Tongkat Ali may aid muscle strength, energy, and testosterone support, which can complement bodybuilding programs, but it is not a substitute for quality nutrition or training and should preferably be supervised by a professional.

Key Takeaways

• Tongkat Ali is an herbal supplement with a long tradition in Southeast Asian medicine.
• May offer benefits in male fertility, testosterone support, energy, and mood improvements, backed by emerging scientific evidence.
• Possible side effects include insomnia, GI upset, mood changes, and, rarely, liver injury or heavy metal toxicity from contaminated products.
• Consultation with a healthcare professional is vital before starting supplementation, especially for those with pre-existing conditions or using other medicines.
• Purchase only reputable, third-party tested Tongkat Ali supplements to ensure safety and efficacy.

Author

Sneha TeteBeauty & Lifestyle Writer

 

Sneha is a relationships and lifestyle writer with a strong foundation in applied linguistics and certified training in relationship coaching. She brings over five years of writing experience to thebridalbox, crafting thoughtful, research-driven content that empowers readers to build healthier relationships, boost emotional well-being, and embrace holistic living.

Read full bio of Sneha Tete