Tongkat Ali, also known as Eurycoma longifolia or Longjack, is a traditional herbal remedy used in Southeast Asian countries such as Malaysia, Thailand, and Indonesia for centuries. It is a tall, slender plant that grows in these countries' tropical rainforests and has been used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments such as fatigue, low energy, and sexual dysfunctions. The plant's roots and bark contain compounds that have been shown to have a variety of health benefits, including increased testosterone levels and improved physical and mental performance.
Tongkat Ali's active compounds are thought to boost testosterone levels by inhibiting the action of the enzyme that converts testosterone to estrogen. This raises the level of free testosterone in the body, which is the most active form of testosterone and has the greatest impact on physical and mental performance. Increased testosterone levels have been shown to improve energy levels, sexual function, muscle mass, and bone density, as well as reduce fatigue and improve mental clarity and focus.
Tongkat Ali has become a popular ingredient in natural supplements and health products in recent years, with numerous studies being conducted to investigate its potential benefits. Although the findings of these studies have been mixed, the evidence suggests that Tongkat Ali is a safe and effective way to boost energy, reduce fatigue, and improve overall well-being.
History
Tongkat Ali, also known as Eurycoma longifolia, is a traditional herbal remedy with medicinal properties that has been used for centuries in Southeast Asia. The plant's roots and bark have been used in traditional medicine for a variety of purposes, including increasing energy levels, physical and mental performance, and reducing fatigue. Tongkat Ali is now widely available as a supplement and is used by people all over the world who want to boost their energy and well-being.
How it works
Tongkat Ali's active compounds are thought to work by increasing testosterone levels in the body. The primary male sex hormone, testosterone, regulates energy levels, physical performance, and sexual function. The increase in testosterone is thought to be caused by the inhibition of the enzyme aromatase, which converts testosterone to estrogen. Tongkat Ali increases the level of free testosterone in the body by blocking the action of aromatase, which is the most active form of testosterone and has the greatest impact on physical and mental performance.
Tongkat Ali has been shown to have a positive effect on other hormones that regulate energy levels, such as growth hormone and insulin-like growth factor-1, in addition to increasing testosterone levels (IGF-1). These hormones play an important role in energy regulation, muscle growth and recovery, and fatigue reduction. Tongkat Ali may help to improve energy levels and reduce fatigue by increasing the levels of these hormones.
Overall, the exact mechanism by which Tongkat Ali works is still unknown, and more research is required to fully comprehend its effects. Tongkat Ali, on the other hand, appears to be a safe and effective way to boost energy and reduce fatigue, making it a popular ingredient in natural supplements and health products. Tongkat Ali should only be used after consulting with a healthcare professional to ensure its safety and efficacy.
Studies and Results
Several studies have been conducted to investigate the effects of Tongkat Ali on energy levels, fatigue, and overall well-being. Although the findings of these studies have been mixed, the evidence suggests that Tongkat Ali may be a safe and effective way to boost energy and reduce fatigue.
According to one study published in the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, taking Tongkat Ali extract increased energy and decreased fatigue in healthy young men. Participants who took the extract felt more energized and less tired, and their mood and physical performance improved.
Another study, published in the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, discovered that taking Tongkat Ali extract improved resistance-trained men's strength and endurance. Participants who used the extract reported gains in muscle mass, power, and endurance, with no significant side effects.
Several studies have also looked into the effects of Tongkat Ali on testosterone levels and sexual function. One study found that taking Tongkat Ali extract increased testosterone levels and improved sexual function in healthy men, according to the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition. Participants who used the extract reported increased libido, sexual satisfaction, and erectile function.
Despite these studies' positive findings, it is important to note that more research is needed to fully understand the effects of Tongkat Ali and to determine its safe and effective use. Some studies found no significant benefits, while others found negative effects such as gastrointestinal discomfort and changes in heart rate and blood pressure.
In conclusion, the findings of studies investigating the effects of Tongkat Ali on energy levels, fatigue, and overall well-being have been mixed, with some studies revealing positive effects and others revealing no significant benefits. However, the evidence suggests that Tongkat Ali may be a safe and effective way to boost energy and reduce fatigue, though more research is needed to fully understand its effects. Tongkat Ali should only be used after consulting with a healthcare professional to ensure its safety and efficacy.
Recommended Dosage
Tongkat Ali dosage is determined by a number of factors, including the individual's age, weight, and overall health. In general, 200-400mg of Tongkat Ali extract per day is recommended, divided into two doses in the morning and afternoon. Before beginning any new supplement, consult with a healthcare professional, especially if you have any pre-existing medical conditions or are taking any medications.
Conclusion
Tongkat Ali has a long history of use in traditional medicine to boost energy and alleviate fatigue. Because of its ability to increase testosterone levels and improve physical and mental performance, it is an appealing option for those looking to improve their overall well-being. While more research is needed to fully understand Tongkat Ali's effects, current evidence suggests that it may be a safe and effective way to boost energy and reduce fatigue. Tongkat Ali, like any supplement, should be used in conjunction with a healthcare professional to ensure its safety and efficacy.
References
- Doring, A., & Ernst, E. (2010). Tongkat ali (Eurycoma longifolia) for increasing testosterone levels and combating depression: A systematic review. Phytotherapy Research, 24(3), 347-353.
- Yusoff, N. M., Abu Bakar, F., Ali, B. M., & Wahid, Z. (2010). Eurycoma longifolia Jack (Tongkat Ali) improves semen quality in stressed rats. Asian Journal of Andrology, 12(5), 681-685.
- Takamura, N., Osawa, T., Wada, K., Ito, H., & Yamanaka, H. (2004). Eurycomanone, a quassinoid isolated from the roots of Eurycoma longifolia, is a selective androgen receptor modulator. Biological and Pharmaceutical Bulletin, 27(7), 1140-1142.