Eurycoma Longifolia (Tongkat Ali): Benefits, Risks, and Science Explained

What is Eurycoma Longifolia (Tongkat Ali)?

Origins and Traditional Uses

Eurycoma longifolia, commonly known as Tongkat Ali, is a shrubby tree native to Southeast Asia, particularly Malaysia, Indonesia, and Vietnam. It has been a cornerstone of traditional medicine in the region for centuries. Known by other names such as Malaysian ginseng and Long Jack, Tongkat Ali has historically been used to treat:

• Malaria and other infections
• Fevers and glandular swelling
• Postpartum fatigue and decreased energy
• Impotence and decreased virility

Its reputation as an aphrodisiac has driven its use globally, especially among men seeking to enhance fertility and sexual performance.

Key Compounds and Active Ingredients

Tongkat Ali owes its medicinal properties to its rich array of bioactive compounds, including:

• Quassinoids (e.g., eurycomanone): Known for antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.
• Flavonoids and alkaloids: Help combat cellular damage caused by free radicals.
• Other bioactives: Eurycolactone and eurycomalactone, which may support testosterone production and endurance.

These compounds make Tongkat Ali a promising herbal remedy for various health conditions.

Potential Benefits of Tongkat Ali

Male Fertility and Sexual Performance

One of Tongkat Ali’s most well-documented benefits is its ability to improve testosterone levels, particularly in men with low levels of this hormone. Studies suggest:

• Improved sperm quality: Enhanced motility, concentration, and volume.
• Increased testosterone: Especially in cases of hypogonadism, a condition where sex glands produce insufficient testosterone.
• Enhanced libido and erectile function: Shown to boost sexual performance and satisfaction.

For example, a study of 108 men aged 30–55 found that taking 300 mg of Tongkat Ali extract daily improved sperm volume by 18% and motility by 44%, significantly increasing fertility.

Stress Relief and Mood Improvement

Research suggests Tongkat Ali may reduce cortisol (the stress hormone) while improving emotional well-being. Notable findings include:

• Reduced anger, tension, and confusion in participants.
• Enhanced feelings of vigour and improved emotional stability.

One study found that supplementing with 200 mg of Tongkat Ali extract daily reduced cortisol levels by 16% and significantly lowered stress-related symptoms.

Athletic Performance and Body Composition

Tongkat Ali is popular among athletes for its potential to enhance physical performance. Studies indicate it may:

• Improve muscle mass and reduce body fat.
• Act as an ergogenic aid, helping the body utilize energy efficiently.
• Increase endurance and reduce fatigue.

However, the results are mixed. While some studies report significant improvements in lean muscle mass and strength, others show no effect, suggesting outcomes may depend on dosage and duration.

Bone Health

Preliminary research indicates that Tongkat Ali may help prevent bone loss, particularly in androgen-deficient osteoporosis. However, its effects on bone health are less potent than other traditional herbs, and more studies are needed to confirm these findings.

Anticancer Properties

In vitro studies suggest that certain compounds in Tongkat Ali may exhibit anticancer properties. These findings are promising, but there is currently no robust evidence of its effectiveness in humans.

Risks and Side Effects

Potential DNA Damage

The European Food Safety Authority has warned that high doses of Tongkat Ali may cause DNA damage in gastrointestinal tissues. While human studies have not confirmed this risk, it highlights the importance of sticking to recommended dosages.

Safety Concerns for Specific Populations

Tongkat Ali may not be suitable for everyone. Individuals with the following conditions should exercise caution or avoid its use:

• Prostate cancer: Tongkat Ali can raise testosterone levels, potentially exacerbating hormone-sensitive cancers.
• Kidney or liver disease: Limited evidence on safety for these conditions.
• Pregnancy or breastfeeding: Insufficient research on safety for women in these categories.

Contamination Risks

Studies have found mercury contamination in some Tongkat Ali supplements, with 26% of tested products exceeding safe mercury levels. Always choose supplements from reputable brands.

Long-Term Use and Unknowns

While short-term use appears safe, there is limited data on long-term effects. Most studies focus on supplementation periods of 4–12 weeks, leaving questions about prolonged use unanswered.

Recommended Dosage and Safe Use

General Dosage Guidelines

Research suggests that Tongkat Ali is safe when consumed in doses of 200–400 mg per day for most healthy adults. Higher doses (up to 1.2 grams per day) have been studied, but safety beyond these ranges remains unclear.

Tips for Choosing Quality Supplements

To ensure safety and efficacy:

• Look for third-party testing and certifications.
• Choose supplements with clear ingredient labelling and transparent sourcing.
• Avoid products from unknown brands or those with questionable claims.

Should You Take Tongkat Ali?

If you’re considering Tongkat Ali supplementation, keep these factors in mind:

1. Align with Your Health Goals
   • Ideal for individuals seeking stress relief, testosterone support, or fertility improvements.
   • Less suitable for those with pre-existing medical conditions.
2. Start with a Low Dose
   • Begin at the lower end of the recommended range (200 mg/day) to monitor tolerance.
3. Consult a Healthcare Provider
   • Essential if you have existing health conditions, take medications, or are pregnant/breastfeeding.
4. Choose Reputable Products
   • Avoid contaminated or mislabeled supplements by researching the brand.

The Bottom Line

Tongkat Ali (Eurycoma longifolia) has long been revered in traditional medicine for its potential to enhance testosterone, alleviate stress, and improve body composition. While research supports many of these claims, evidence remains limited, and concerns about DNA damage and contamination warrant caution.

If you’re interested in trying Tongkat Ali, consult your healthcare provider first and choose high-quality, tested supplements. Used responsibly, it may offer significant benefits for specific health concerns.

Practical Takeaways

• Benefits: Testosterone support, stress relief, fertility enhancement, and possible muscle-building effects.
• Risks: Potential DNA damage, contamination risks, and contraindications for certain conditions.
• Safety Tips: Stick to recommended dosages (200–400 mg/day), consult your doctor, and prioritize reputable brands.

By staying informed and cautious, you can make the most of what this traditional herbal remedy has to offer.