The list of natural herbal compounds claiming to naturally boost testosterone levels grows longer by the day. One ingredient that has been receiving quite a little bit of attention recently is Tongkat Ali. You could have noticed it on the label of your favorite testosterone booster (possibly as ‘longjack’) and wondered what it’s all about. Well, wonder no more.
In this text, we’ll explore the advantages of Tongkat Ali for testosterone increase. We’ll consider the most recent research to see whether it supports the Tongkat Ali testosterone booster claims. Read on to get the hype-free facts about this much-heralded herbal ingredient.
What you’ll be able to expect in this text:
- What’s Tongkat Ali?
- Does Tongkat Ali Raise Testosterone?
- How Does Tongkat Ali Increase Testosterone?
- Other Advantages of Tongkat Ali
- Side Effects of Tongkat Ali
- How Much Tongkat Ali Should Take?
- Tongkat Ali FAQs
- Summary
What’s Tongkat Ali?
Tongkat Ali, or , is a flowering plant indigenous to Southeast Asian nations like Malaysia, Indonesia, and Thailand. Common names for Tongkat Ali include “Malaysian ginseng” and “longjack.” Southeast Asian civilizations have long used the plant as a standard medicinal herb.
The Tongkat Ali plant’s roots are used for various medical uses. They’re gathered, dried, and either processed into extracts or powdered right into a powder. On account of its potential health advantages, Tongkat Ali has grown in popularity as a dietary complement.
Together with its traditional uses, Tongkat Ali has grow to be a preferred ingredient in testosterone-boosting supplements and as a stand-alone product. Tongkat Ali supplements can be found as a high-quality powder that could be added to beverages, in capsule form, as a liquid extract, and as a tonic mix.
Does Tongkat Ali Raise Testosterone?
Tongkat Ali extract is believed to have the flexibility to naturally boost the body’s secretion of testosterone. While the research is pretty limited, a handful of studies support using Tongkat Ali for low testosterone.
In a single study, 63 healthy subjects got Tongkat Ali or a placebo for 4 weeks. The Tongkat Ali group experienced a median increase in total testosterone by 37%. At the identical time, their cortisol levels were reduced by a median of 16%. This research supports the contention that Tongkat Ali’s effects on testosterone are significant.¹
How does Tongkat Ali increase testosterone?
Although the research on Tongkat Ali’s effects on testosterone is restricted, the prevailing research does offer some insights into the possible mechanisms by which the herb is in a position to boost natural testosterone production.
1. Increases Free Testosterone
Each free (unbound) testosterone and testosterone sure to proteins are sorts of testosterone present in the body. The share of testosterone within the bloodstream that’s unbound to proteins like albumin or sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) is known as free testosterone.
Nearly all of the testosterone within the blood is bonded to proteins, including albumin and SHBG. Since this sure testosterone is inactive biologically, it cannot exercise its effects by interacting with androgen receptors. Nevertheless, free testosterone is able to freely entering cells and interacting with androgen receptors to exert its physiological effects, including increasing muscle mass and strength.
By decreasing the activity of SHBG, Tongkat Ali may raise the extent of free, lively testosterone within the blood. A study published within the revealed that Tongkat Ali extract dramatically reduced SHBG levels in human participants. This supports the assumption that Tongkat Ali may contribute to maintaining larger amounts of free testosterone by lowering SHBG activity.²
2. Boosts LH Production
Luteinizing hormone (LH) is created by the pituitary gland. In males, it has a key role in controlling testosterone synthesis. LH stimulates the Leydig cells throughout the testes to fabricate after which release testosterone. It also acts on specific Leydig cell receptors to advertise the conversion of cholesterol into testosterone. This mechanism can also be how researchers think D-Aspartic Acid boosts testosterone.
A category of organic substances called quassinoids, abundant Tongkat Ali, have been shown to have potential effects on luteinizing hormone (LH) release. It is assumed that quassinoids interact with particular receptors or signaling systems which are involved within the control of LH production.
One study examined how a standardized extract from Tongkat Ali affected the hormone profiles in rats. The extract considerably raised LH levels within the treated group in comparison with the control group. Though the incontrovertible fact that the precise mechanisms of motion weren’t established, the researchers hypothesized that the extract’s quassinoids is likely to be chargeable for the increased LH levels.³ Further research, though, is required to quantify the effect that Tongkat Ali has on luteinizing hormone.
The quassinoids in Tongkat Ali are also believed to enhance sleep quality, particularly the REM stage of sleep. Researchers contend that there’s a connection between sleep quality and testosterone production, with studies showing that low testosterone levels are directly correlated with poor sleep habits. So, the flexibility of quassinoids to advertise deeper REM sleep may contribute to the flexibility of the herb to extend testosterone levels.
One other advantage of quassinoids is their ability to assist reduce stress levels. These compounds have been identified by researchers as contributing aspects to Tongkat Ali’s ability to lower cortisol levels, which we discuss further in the following section. Low testosterone levels have been related to the increased inflammation that results from high cortisol levels.
Other Advantages of Tongkat Ali
Tongkat Ali extract has been used throughout Asia for greater than a thousand years as a natural healer. The next health profit has been identified, each through traditional and modern research:
1. Stress Reducer
Tongkat Ali has long been used to cut back stress by Southeast Asian peoples. There has recently been some research to support its use for this end. In a 2013 study by Talbot et al., 63 study participants got either Tongkat Ali or a placebo for 4 weeks. On the study’s conclusion, the Tongkat Ali group had significantly reduced levels of cortisol, the stress hormone. In addition they reported increased mood and reduced levels of stress, anger, and confusion.⁴
Researchers are usually not aware of the precise methods by which Tongkat Ali helps reduce stress. It has been suggested that Tongkat Ali has adaptogenic properties that help the body achieve homeostasis and adjust to stressful situations. Specifically, it has been theorized that the herb helps regulate the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, which triggers the stress response.
Tongkat Ali also appears to have the ability to manage the discharge of cortisol, which increases production in times of stress.
2. Libido Enhancer
The consequences of Tongkat Ali extract on adult males with reduced libido were the main target of a study that was published within the in 2012. Within the study, 109 men were randomly given either Tongkat Ali extract or a placebo for 12 weeks.
In line with the study’s findings, the group receiving Tongkat Ali extract had significantly higher libido levels than the placebo group. The Tongkat Ali group also reported improvements in sperm quality, erectile function, and sexual performance satisfaction.⁵
Tongkat Ali’s ability to enhance libido is regarded as connected to its ability to spice up testosterone production and lift testosterone levels. The discharge of sure testosterone and a rise in testosterone production each have the potential to enhance libido and sexual performance.
Nitric oxide, a substance that aids in blood vessel dilation and enhances blood flow, may be produced in greater quantities when Tongkat Ali is consumed. Improved blood flow to the genitals may enhance sexual arousal and support erectile function.
Tongkat Ali’s possible stress-relieving advantages may not directly result in an increased libido. It would help to foster a psychological environment that’s more conducive to sexual desire and performance by lowering tension and anxiety.
In a 2020 study, the flexibility of Tongkat Ali to enhance erectile function in men with low testosterone levels was studied. Forty-five men with a median age of 47 were divided into 4 groups.
Two of the groups undertook a resistance training program, with certainly one of them also taking 200 mg of Tongkat Ali every day, while the opposite two didn’t train, with certainly one of those groups also taking 200 mg of Tongkat Ali. The study lasted for six months.
Erectile function was improved in each groups that took Tongkat Ali, while there was no improvement within the two placebo groups. Essentially the most significant improvement in erectile function was seen in the boys who took Tongkat Ali and performed resistance exercises.⁶
3. Performance Booster
There may be some evidence that Tongkat Ali can increase strength levels and muscle mass. In a single study, 100 mg of Tongkat Ali was given to a bunch of men who were also placed on an 8-week circuit training program. A placebo group did the identical workout program but took a placebo. The outcomes showed that the Tongkat Ali group increased each strength and muscle mass (by 4%), while the placebo group showed no gains.⁷
There are a couple of studies that show quite dramatic increases in strength after taking Tongkat Ali, but these were funded by complement firms with a vested interest, in order that they can’t be relied upon.
Side Effects of Tongkat Ali
Tongkat Ali is a natural herbal compound that is mostly considered to be protected when taken in keeping with dosage recommendations. Nevertheless, as with all natural supplements used, some people may experience a number of of the next unwanted side effects from taking a Tongkat Ali complement:
- Insomnia resulting from the herb’s ability to stimulate the central nervous system
- Restlessness or agitation for a similar reason
- Elevated body temperature
- Hormonal fluctuations
How much Tongkat Ali should you’re taking?
The dosage of Tongkat Ali utilized in clinical studies ranges from 200-400 mg per day. Nevertheless, one study dosed it at 1.2 grams per day with no antagonistic effects.⁸
The advisable Tongkat Ali dose for testosterone-boosting effects varies from one manufacturer to the following. Until further studies emerge, we recommend on the lookout for a Tongkat Ali complement that doses at or around 400 mg per day in case your predominant reason for taking the complement is as a testosterone booster.
Tongkat Ali and Testosterone FAQs
Does Tongkat Ali really work?
Yes, Tongkat Ali does really work when it comes to enhancing the body’s natural testosterone production, reducing stress, increasing libido, and improving strength levels.
There may be valid research to support each of those Tongkat Ali advantages. The extent to which it’s in a position to achieve these results, nonetheless, has not been fully established and should vary from individual to individual.
How much does Tongkat Ali increase testosterone?
The extent of testosterone increase that results from taking Tongkat Ali varies from individual to individual based on the quantity and purity of the herb taken, the person’s physiology, and the duration of supplementation.
What does Tongkat Ali do?
While the research is restricted, Tongkat Ali is assumed to have various potential physiological effects, including improving libido and sexual function. Tongkat Ali is regularly used as an energy booster and to extend athletic stamina. It is assumed to enhance athletic performance and reduce fatigue by boosting each energy levels and stamina.
Tongkat Ali is characterised as an adaptogen, helping the body to adapt to emphasize. It’s believed to manage the degrees of stress hormones like cortisol and lessen the results of hysteria and stress.
In line with some research, Tongkat Ali may help maintain lean body mass, promote increased muscle mass, increase muscle recovery, and improve strength, especially when used at the side of resistance training.
Finally, Tongkat Ali is assumed to assist increase the natural production of testosterone.
How long for Tongkat Ali to work?
The length of time it takes for Tongkat Ali to work will depend on various variables, including an individual’s genetic makeup, weight loss program, and exercise level. Generally, it is best to allow for several weeks of use before expecting to see results from Tongkat Ali supplements.
Summary
Tongkat Ali is an exciting player within the testosterone-boosting space. There may be some promising research to support Tongkat Ali use as a natural booster of the body’s natural release, each by increasing free testosterone levels and stimulating the discharge of luteinizing hormone.
If you add in Tongkat Ali’s proven ability to cut back stress levels, boost libido and increase strength and lean muscle mass when combined with resistance training, you have some pretty compelling reasons to make this a mainstay in your supplementation regimen.
References
- Talbott, Shawn M, et al. “Effect of Tongkat Ali on Stress Hormones and Psychological Mood State in Moderately Stressed Subjects.” , vol. 10, 26 May 2013, p. 28
- Henkel, Ralf R., et al. “Tongkat Ali as a Potential Herbal Complement for Physically Lively Male and Female Seniors-A Pilot Study.” , vol. 28, no. 4, 11 June 2013, pp. 544–550
- Low, Bin-Seng, et al. “Standardized Quassinoid-Wealthy Eurycoma Longifolia Extract Improved Spermatogenesis and Fertility in Male Rats via the Hypothalamic–Pituitary–Gonadal Axis.” , vol. 145, no. 3, 13 Feb. 2013, pp. 706–714
- Talbott, Shawn M, et al. “Effect of Tongkat Ali on Stress Hormones and Psychological Mood State in Moderately Stressed Subjects.” , vol. 10, 26 May 2013, p. 28
- Ismail, Shaiful Bahari, et al. “Randomized Clinical Trial on the Use of PHYSTA Freeze-Dried Water Extract of Eurycoma Longifolia for the Improvement of Quality of Life and Sexual Well-Being in Men.” , vol. 2012, 1 Nov. 2012, p. e429268
- Leitão, Alice Erwig, et al. “A 6-Month, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Randomized Trial to Evaluate the Effect of Eurycoma Longifolia (Tongkat Ali) and Concurrent Training on Erectile Function and Testosterone Levels in Androgen Deficiency of Aging Males (ADAM).” , vol. 145, Mar. 2021, pp. 78–85
- Ooi, Foong & Afifah, Mohamed & Chen, Chee & Asari, Mohd. (2015). Combined effects of Eurycoma longifolia Jack supplementation and a circuit training programme on bone metabolism markers, muscular strength and power, and immune functions in adult men. Internation Journal of Engineering Research and Sports Science. 2. 1-10.
- Li, Ching-Hao, et al. “Evaluation of Acute 13-Week Subchronic Toxicity and Genotoxicity of the Powdered Root of Tongkat Ali (Eurycoma LongifoliaJack).” , vol. 2013, 2013, pp. 1–11
