By WellnessMSN Team
When you think of herbal remedies for energy, libido, and resilience, ginseng or ashwagandha probably come to mind. But there’s another plant making waves: Tongkat Ali. Known scientifically as Eurycoma longifolia, this slender shrub grows in the rainforests of Southeast Asia, especially Malaysia and Indonesia. For centuries, it’s been valued as a traditional tonic. Now, research is starting to confirm why.
Let’s take a closer look at what Tongkat Ali actually does, how it works, and whether it’s right for you.
What Is Tongkat Ali?
Tongkat Ali is often called “Malaysian ginseng,” although it isn’t botanically related to ginseng. Locals traditionally used the root to address:
- Fatigue and low energy
- Sexual health issues
- Fever and infections
- Stress
Today, it’s typically consumed as an extract in capsules, teas, or powders.
How Does Tongkat Ali Work?
The benefits of Tongkat Ali come largely from its unique compounds, including quassinoids and eurycomanone. These phytochemicals appear to influence hormones and the body’s stress response. Here’s what research shows so far:
- Boosting Testosterone NaturallySome of the most compelling evidence is for testosterone support. Several studies have found that Tongkat Ali may help raise testosterone levels in men with low baseline levels, potentially improving energy, mood, and libido.A 2012 study published in Andrologia found that about 90% of participants with low testosterone restored their levels to normal after a month of supplementation.
- Supporting Athletic Performance and Muscle StrengthAthletes sometimes use Tongkat Ali as a natural performance enhancer. A study in the British Journal of Sports Medicine showed that men taking Tongkat Ali along with resistance training experienced greater increases in muscle size and strength compared to placebo.The root may also help reduce exercise-related stress hormones, especially cortisol.
- Reducing Stress and Improving MoodHigh cortisol doesn’t just impact your body—it can also weigh down your mood. Research suggests Tongkat Ali can lower cortisol and improve subjective feelings of stress and anger.A placebo-controlled study found that daily supplementation for four weeks significantly improved tension and anger scores in moderately stressed adults.
- Potential Fertility BenefitsPreliminary studies indicate Tongkat Ali may improve sperm count and motility, especially in men dealing with infertility. However, more robust trials are needed before it can be recommended as a fertility treatment.
Is Tongkat Ali Safe?
For most healthy adults, Tongkat Ali appears safe when used in moderate doses (around 200–400 mg daily). Reported side effects are mild and may include:
- Insomnia (especially if taken late in the day)
- Irritability
- Mild restlessness
If you have a hormone-sensitive condition or take medication that affects testosterone or cortisol, talk to your doctor first. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should avoid it due to a lack of safety data.
Conclusion
Tongkat Ali isn’t just a folk remedy—it’s an herb with promising evidence for supporting testosterone, reducing stress, and improving vitality. If you’re looking for a natural way to feel more energetic and resilient, this Southeast Asian root might be worth considering.
As with any supplement, it’s best to consult a healthcare professional before starting. Your body’s chemistry is unique, and what works well for one person may not be right for another.