What is Tongkat Ali? Benefits, Uses & Side Effects
Tongkat ali is a common name for Eurycoma longifolia, a tall evergreen shrub native to Southeast Asia. The extract of the roots of this shrub have been used for centuries in global health practices to boost libido and physical performance. Many take Tongkat ali to increase testosterone. However, effects of long-term use are unstudied.
Tongkat Ali vs. Long Jack
Many plants have both common and scientific names and since the full botanical species name is Eurycoma longifolia Jack, it came to be called long jack in several English-speaking countries. So Tongkat ali and longjack are simply different names for the same plant.
Tongkat Ali Benefits
Historically used primarily as an aphrodisiac, benefits of Tongkat ali for men include support for testosterone levels, sexual health and potentially male fertility. Regular use may enhance athletic performance and muscle mass when used in conjunction with weightlifting. This herbal supplement may also support a calm mindset.
- Tongkat Ali for Sexual Health: Tongkat ali (long jack) is a popular supplement for sexual health. It may help rev male libido and make your intimate encounters more enjoyable. This male sexual health tonic may also encourage sperm health and motility.
- Tongkat Ali for Physical Strength & Performance: When combined with resistance training, Tongkat ali is good for helping to boost physical and muscular power.(1) Emerging research indicates that Eurycoma longifolia (Tongkat ali, longjack) may enhance muscle strength in older adults for both men and women.(2)
- Tongkat Ali for Mood & Stress Support: Taken daily, Tongkat ali encourages a healthy balance of stress hormones which is key to a positive mood. Tongkat is not the same as ashwagandha, though it may offer adaptogenic properties that promote a healthy response to daily stressors.(3)
- Tongkat Ali for Hormone Support: Tongkat ali helps support healthy testosterone levels, which can be an important component of maintaining strength and vitality throughout the aging process.(4)
How Much Tongkat Ali Should You Take?
There is no official recommended daily intake for Tongkat ali. Common usage of full-spectrum Eurycoma longifolia is between 200 and 400 mg daily.
Tongkat Ali Side Effects
High doses of Tongkat ali may lead to stomach damage and gastrointestinal discomfort. Long-term use of Tongkat ali has not been studied; children and pregnant or breastfeeding women should not take Tongkat ali. Other side effects of Tongkat ali (longjack) may include insomnia, irritability and restlessness. Those taking blood glucose medications should consult their healthcare provider before taking Tongkat ali. People at risk of hormone-sensitive cancers or have a history of heart disease or kidney disease may have an adverse reaction to this supplement.(5)
If you’re interested where to buy Tongkat ali, Swanson offers several Tongkat ali supplements, including one featuring patented LongJaX®, which has been clinically studied for its potential to increase testosterone levels and support male sexual potency.(6) Shop all sexual health supplements here.
You be well, now.
Swanson
*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
Sources
- Effects of Eurycoma Longifolia Jack Supplementation Combined with Resistance Training on Isokinetic Muscular Strength and Power, Anaerobic Power, and Urinary Testosterone. International Journal of Preventative Medicine. Read source
- Tongkat Ali as a Potential Herbal Supplement for Physically Active Male and Female Seniors—A Pilot Study. Phytotherapy Research. Read source
- Effect of Tongkat Ali on stress hormones and psychological mood state in moderately stressed subjects. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition. Read source
- Standardised water-soluble extract of Eurycoma longifolia, Tongkat ali, as testosterone booster for managing men with late-onset hypogonadism? First International Journal of Andrology. Read source
- Tongkat Ali (Eurycoma longifolia): Everything You Need to Know. Healthline. Read source
- Supply Source: AIDP, Inc.: A Joint Venture in Ingredients and Custom Solutions. Nutraceuticals World. Read source
