×

This article on Epainassist.com has been reviewed by a medical professional, as well as checked for facts, to assure the readers the best possible accuracy.

We follow a strict editorial policy and we have a zero-tolerance policy regarding any level of plagiarism. Our articles are resourced from reputable online pages. This article may contains scientific references. The numbers in the parentheses (1, 2, 3) are clickable links to peer-reviewed scientific papers.

The feedback link “Was this Article Helpful” on this page can be used to report content that is not accurate, up-to-date or questionable in any manner.

This article does not provide medical advice.

1

Benefits and Side Effects of Tongkat Ali

What is Tongkat Ali?

Tongkat Ali is a herbal remedy used mostly for male sexual organs. It is a tree that is native to South Asia. It is used as a traditional medicine in Malaysia, Vietnam, and other Asian countries.

Health Benefits of Tongkat Ali

Most of the benefits of Tongklat Ali are not well-researched. Some studies show that it may be helpful in improving male infertility, improving mood, and increasing muscle mass. Its health benefits are as follows.

Increases Testosterone Level and Improves Male Infertility

Tongkat Ali contains compounds that may boost testosterone and help in treating the above issues.(3, 4)

A study was performed on 76 men with low testosterone levels. They were given 200 mg of Tongkat Ali compound per day. It was observed that the level of testosterone hormone came to the normal level.(4)

Tongkat Ali may also be effective in improving sperm motility and concentration. A study performed on men 30-55 years for 12 weeks found that Tongkat Ali extracts increased sperm count and motility by 18% to 44%.(8)

May Help in Relieving Stress

Tongkat Ali helps in lowering the stress hormone and thereby helps in decreasing anxiety and improving mood.

A study done on rats in 1999 found that the effect of Tongkat Ali extract in reducing anxiety was comparable with the common anti-anxiety medication.(9)

One more study done on 63 adults with moderate stress found that supplementing with Tongkat Ali extract reduced the level of stress hormone in the saliva by 16% when compared with placebo.(10) The participants involved in the study also reported a significant reduction in stress, anger, and tension.

May Help in Improving Body Composition

Tongkat Ali contains compounds called quassinoids that may help the body use energy more efficiently and help in reducing fatigue and improving endurance.(11) It may act as ergogenic acid, a substance that enhances physical performance and improves body composition.

A study was done on 14 men participating in a strength training program. They were given 100 mg of Tongkat Ali extract every day. It was observed that there was an increase in lean body mass than those taking a placebo and also the participants lost more fat.(12)

Another study done on 25 older adults discovered that 400mg of tongkat ali extract everyday increased muscular strength.(13)

Side Effects of Tongkat Ali

A review done in 2016 on the safety and toxicity of Tongkat Ali found that it did not have any detrimental effects on sperms in therapeutic doses but could be toxic in higher concentrations.(14) It was concluded by the scientist that Tongkat Ali could be safe unless not taken in high doses. 200-400 milligram was recommended safe to be consumed.

People with hormonal cancer should be cautious before using it as it may increase their testosterone level.

Those taking blood sugar-lowering medication should speak with the doctor before starting Tongkat Ali as it may increase the effects of these medications.

Also, people with certain conditions such as cancer, heart disease, kidney disease, and those with weakened immune system should be cautious while using Tongkat Ali. Tongkat Ali is an effective remedy for numerous health conditions. As the studies are limited, for safety purposes it is always good to keep the doctor in the loop whenever planning to start with any herbal medication. After all, it is your health.

Team PainAssist
Team PainAssist
Written, Edited or Reviewed By: Team PainAssist, Pain Assist Inc. This article does not provide medical advice. See disclaimer
Last Modified On:April 29, 2022

Recent Posts

Related Posts