For every adult, especially for males, having the right testosterone level is essential. It aids in improving their libido, increasing lean mass, and enhancing athletic performance.
Several studies have concluded that taking testosterone booster can be beneficial for increased muscle, strength, fat loss, and enhanced sexual function.
While there are some over the counter medicines and supplements available in the market, there are some natural and effective ways to boost your testosterone level. One of them is Tongkat Ali.
This article looks into the efficacy of Tongkat Ali in increasing testosterone levels, its side effects, and many more.
Tongkat Ali: What is it?
Tongkat Ali is a herbal supplement derived from the roots of the Eurycoma longifolia, a green shrub native to Southeast Asia.
Also known as longjack, this traditional medicine has been used in Malaysia, Thailand, and some other Asian countries to treat infections, erectile dysfunctions, and male infertility.
Tongkat Ali is quite famous due to its ability to increase testosterone levels in men with a low level of this hormone.
Various studies have been conducted on Tongkat Ali dosage and its effectiveness in improving testosterone levels. However, before you start taking natural testosterone supplements, you need to know why an increased testosterone level is essential for you.
Importance of Testosterone Level
Testosterone is known as the primary male sex hormone. It’s crucial in the development of some of the male reproductive tissues, such as prostate and testes.
However, maintaining the right level of testosterone is essential for both men and women. Especially men with low testosterone levels may suffer from issues like erectile dysfunction, low libido, and even infertility.
Low testosterone levels can be a result of aging, radiation treatments, chemotherapy, infection of the testicles, chronic alcoholism, and many more.
Apart from suffering from infertility, a low level of this hormone can cause anorgasmia in women, reduced stamina, increased body fat, and plateau in muscle building.
How Can Tongkat Ali Help?
The effectiveness of Tongkat Ali in improving the testosterone level is well researched and documented.
Several studies conducted on both animals and humans have shown that it can enhance the hormonal level in general while improving sperm quality. This herbal remedy has also been shown to improve arm circumference, strength, and decrease body fat percentage.
Research performed on 76 older men with low testosterone found that consuming 200 mg of longjack extract every day can improve testosterone levels in over 90% of the participants.
Another study was conducted on 108 men aged between 30 and 55. The result showed that those who took 300mg of this herbal medicine had an increased motility and sperm volume by an average of 44% and 18%.
These studies show that Tongkat Ali is quite effective in treating infertility and low testosterone problems in some men. However, more research needs to be done to establish this fact.
Can Tongkat Ali Improve Libido?
While testosterone is considered as the primary sex hormone for men, it’s equally important for women as well. A drop in this hormone level can have an adverse effect on the sexual performance of both men and women.
A pilot study performed on physically active men and women involved taking 400 mg of Tongkat Ali per day for 5 weeks.
The result showed a significant improvement in testosterone level, muscle strength, and libido in both men and women.
Anxiety, stress, age, and other difficulties can also affect libido in males and females. Tongkat Ali can effectively reduce anxiety and improve libido.
According to a study conducted in 2013, this herbal supplement can reduce the level of the stress hormone cortisol, resulting in less anger, stress, and anxiety in older adults.
Other Benefits of Tongkat Ali
Apart from improving the testosterone level and sexual performance, this herbal medicine offers other health benefits as well.
Components like alkaloids and flavonoids found in Tongkat Ali can act as antioxidants, which can effectively fight cell damage caused by free radicals. Regular consumption of it can also enhance body composition.
Besides, longjack can improve athletic performance, reduce fatigue, and treat insomnia. The supplement also contains antibacterial properties that can be useful in treating some issues in the digestive tract.
Does Tongkat Ali Have Any Side Effect?
Little is known about the safety of longjack as few studies have been conducted to find its effects on humans. As most of the studies used 200mg to 300 mg of this supplement, it’s not sure exactly how much is safe for a healthy adult.
One study suggests that taking 300 mg of Tongkat Ali can be considered safe. However, none of the studies was conducted for a long time, so it’s unclear whether it’s safe for long-term use.
However, a study found 26% of mercury in longjack supplements from Malaysia, which can lead to mercury poisoning, mood swing, and even memory problems.
Also, if you don’t take this supplement in moderate dosage, your testosterone level may become extremely high, causing kidney and liver disease, heart problems, sleep apnea, etc.
Who Should Take Tongkat Ali?
Tongkat Ali can be an excellent supplement to increase testosterone and improve libido and other bodily functions, but you must make sure that you get it from a trusted source.
Considering its popularity and demand, there are many fake products available in the market. Some manufacturers are also producing supplements that have a reduced concentration of longjack herb, which you must avoid.
While you’re having Tongkat Ali as a testosterone booster, consider taking other vital ingredients such as magnesium and zinc. Also, consult with your doctor as it might conflict with the other medications you’re having.
However, if you have any issues like heart problems or kidney disease, it’s recommended that you avoid such supplements or take them under the supervision of a doctor.
Final Thoughts
Having a healthy level of testosterone is crucial for optimal body functioning. While there are multiple treatments available to increase this hormone level, alternative herbal medicine like Tongkat Ali can be considered as a natural and safe way to do so.
However, due to the shortage of clinical studies, this supplement should be taken moderately and after discussing it with a doctor or nutritionist.
Always purchase from a reputed brand to avoid counterfeit products. And make sure you don’t have any physical issues that can become worse after taking this supplement.
Shawn is a content writer at FeedFond. A pet enthusiast and fitness freak, he loves all things animals. To read more of his articles, visit FeedFond.com.
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