Tongkat Ali Supplement: Benefits, Side Effects, and Dosage

Despite being a small, unassuming plant, Tongkat Ali has been revered for centuries for its potent health benefits. Also known as Eurycoma longifolia, Tongkat Ali is a traditional herbal remedy that has captivated the interest of both ancient healers and modern scientists. In this article, let’s delve into the benefits, uses, and side effects of Tongkat Ali, exploring how this plant continues to be a cornerstone of natural medicine in the modern world.

What Is Tongkat Ali?

As mentioned in the introduction, Tongkat Ali is a herbal remedy. There are a variety of benefits to taking Tongkat Ali, from improving overall health to an increase in energy levels and libido. We’ll focus more on the benefits in the following sections, but for this one, let’s find out the recommended dosage and usage for the remedy. 

What’s The Best Time & Dosage For Tongkat Ali?

The optimal dosage of Tongkat Ali can vary depending on the form in which it is consumed and individual health factors. As per The Botanical Institute, the recommended dosage for standardised Tongkat Ali extract is between 200 to 400 milligrams per day. With Shoku Iku’s very own Wild Harvested Tongkat Ali extract, we recommended ½ tsp. This dosage can provide a sufficient amount of active compounds to harness the herb’s benefits without causing negative side effects.

When it comes to timing, it is best to take Tongkat Ali with meals to enhance absorption and minimise the risk of gastrointestinal discomfort. Either in the morning or afternoon is recommended by The Botanical Institute. 

Those who prefer taking it in the morning tend to want to capitalise on its potential energy-boosting and stamina-enhancing effects, which can be beneficial for physical activities and workouts. What we will say is to avoid taking Tongkat Ali in the evenings, especially before bed. The remedy can be stimulating and energising for many, ruining any chances of getting a good night’s sleep.

As with any supplement, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating Tongkat Ali into your routine. This is especially true if you have any underlying health conditions or are taking other medications. This ensures that you are using the supplement safely and effectively.

What Are The Benefits Of Tongkat Ali?

• Men’s Health

Tongkat Ali is particularly celebrated for its benefits to men’s health. Based on studies published in the National Library of Medicine, it has been shown to improve male fertility by increasing sperm quality, quantity, and motility. Additionally, Tongkat Ali supports prostate health and can help mitigate age-related decline in sexual function.

• Women’s Health

While often associated with men’s health, Tongkat Ali also offers significant benefits for women. It can help balance hormones, alleviate symptoms of menopause, and improve overall reproductive health. The herb’s adaptogenic properties make it a valuable supplement for managing stress and enhancing energy levels, according to a study published on PubMed.

• Testosterone Levels

One of the most well-known benefits of Tongkat Ali is its ability to naturally boost testosterone levels. This can lead to improved muscle mass, strength, and endurance, making it a popular supplement among athletes and bodybuilders. Higher testosterone levels also contribute to better overall health and vitality.

• Libido Enhancement

Tongkat Ali has been traditionally used as an aphrodisiac, and modern research supports its effectiveness in enhancing libido and sexual performance. According to the National Library of Medicine, this is because of its ability to increase testosterone levels and improve blood flow.

Read more: Sexual Health.

• Energy Boost

Tongkat Ali is known for its energy-boosting properties. It can help combat fatigue and improve physical performance, making it an ideal supplement for those with demanding lifestyles or those looking to enhance their workout routines. The herb’s ability to increase energy levels without causing jitteriness makes it a popular alternative to caffeine.

• Stress Relief

As an adaptogen, Tongkat Ali helps the body manage stress more effectively. According to a study published in the National Library of Medicine, participants’ level of tension, anger, and confusion were reduced as a result of Tongkat Ali. This makes Tongkat Ali a valuable tool for improving mental health and overall well-being.

Read more: Adaptogen herbs for stress reduction.

• Cognitive Improvements

Research suggests that Tongkat Ali can have positive effects on cognitive function. By reducing stress and anxiety, the herb can enhance mental clarity, focus, and memory. This makes it a beneficial supplement for those looking to improve their cognitive performance, whether for work, study, or daily life activities.

What Are The Side Effects Of Tongkat Ali?

The fact is, despite the many purported benefits of Tongkat Ali, it still remains a relatively unresearched herbal remedy. According to Health Line, it’s still unclear whether taking the supplements over longer periods is beneficial and safe. Here are a few potential side effects.

• Digestive Issues

Some users may experience digestive issues such as stomach upset, nausea, or diarrhoea when taking Tongkat Ali. These side effects are often mild and can be minimised by taking the supplement with food.

• Insomnia

Due to its stimulating properties, Tongkat Ali may cause insomnia or disrupt sleep patterns, especially if taken in the evening. To avoid this, it is recommended to take the supplement earlier in the day and avoid taking it close to bedtime.

• Increased Heart Rate

Tongkat Ali can sometimes cause an increase in heart rate. People with pre-existing heart conditions or those who are sensitive to stimulants should use caution and consult a healthcare provider before using the supplement.

• Mood Changes

In some cases, Tongkat Ali may cause mood changes such as irritability or anxiety, particularly if taken in high doses. Monitoring your response to the supplement and adjusting the dosage accordingly can help mitigate these effects.

• Hormonal Imbalances

While Tongkat Ali is known for its ability to boost testosterone levels, excessive use can potentially lead to hormonal imbalances. It is important to adhere to recommended dosages and consult a healthcare provider if you have concerns about hormonal health.

• Allergic Reactions

Although rare, some individuals may experience allergic reactions to Tongkat Ali. Symptoms can include rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, or difficulty breathing. If you experience any of these symptoms, discontinue use and seek medical attention immediately.

• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

There is limited research on the safety of Tongkat Ali during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Therefore, it is generally recommended that pregnant or breastfeeding women avoid using the supplement unless advised otherwise by a healthcare provider.

Shoku Iku Has All The Best Tongkat Ali Extract Supplements!

Shoku Iku is proud to announce its very own Wild Harvested Tongkat Ali, a premium Tongkat Ali extract with the power to harness your body’s natural vitality. Whether you’re seeking a performance boost or you want to enhance your libido, check out our Tongkat Ali and see whether it’s right for you. Contact us now for more information!

Reference:

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6. Leitão, A. E., Vieira, M. C. S., Pelegrini, A., da Silva, E. L., & Guimarães, A. C. A. (2021). 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). Maturitas, 145, 78–85. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.maturitas.2020.12.002
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