Table of ContentsView AllTable of ContentsTongkat Ali Medicinal UsesDosageSafetyAlternatives
Table of ContentsView All
View All
Table of Contents
Tongkat Ali Medicinal Uses
Dosage
Safety
Alternatives
Tongkat ali(Eurycoma longifoliaJack), also known as longjack, is a flowering plant native to parts of Southeast Asia.
Traditional medicine systems in Malaysia have used it to treat specific health conditions like low testosterone levels in males.Some evidence suggests that tongkat ali may have additional medicinal uses.
Tongkat ali supplements are widely available, which makes choosing the highest-quality products vital.
MoMo Productions / Getty Images
In the United States, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not regulate supplements the way it regulates prescription drugs. That means some supplement products may not contain what the label says. Whenchoosing a supplement, look for independently tested products and consult a healthcare provider, registered dietitian nutritionist (RD or RDN), or pharmacist.
Traditional medicine systems have historically used the tongkat ali plant to treat a wide variety of ailments, including pain, upset stomach, fever, itching,high blood pressure, fatigue, and low testosterone.
Phytonutrients(plant compounds with health benefits) may be responsible for the potential health benefits of tongkat ali. They includephenoliccompounds,quassinoids,alkaloids,triterpenes, and steroid lactone, likeeurycolactone.Research shows these compounds have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, antibacterial, antidiabetic, and other protective effects.
Due to these effects, researchers have investigated possible medicinal uses of tongkat ali for the following conditions:
It’s important to note that most studies presented above were performed in labs or on animal models. Though we can learn from such studies, more human research on tongkat ali is necessary.
How Much Should I Take?
Dosage guidelines for tongkat ali are limited because there isn’t enough clinical research on this medicinal plant yet. Plus, the tongkat ali dosage may vary depending on your reason for use, weight, and other factors.
However, typical tongkat ali doses considered generally safe range from about200 milligrams (mg)to400 mg per day. In one study, 200 mg of tongkat ali per day benefited semen quality, while a dose of 400 mg per day significantly increased testosterone levels in another.
When using tongkat ali (or any dietary supplement), following the dosing directions as written on the product label is best. Your healthcare provider or pharmacist can also help you determine the proper, safe dosage.
Is Tongkat Ali Safe for Me?
In general, tongkat ali is considered a safe herbal supplement. However, some people may experience side effects when using tongkat ali, while others may need extra precautions.
If you take any medications or supplements, you should check with a healthcare provider about potential interactions before adding tongkat ali.
Tongkat Ali Alternatives
Other options are available if tongkat ali is unsuitable for you. For example, if your healthcare provider has determined that you havelow testosterone, one option is a prescription medication, such astestosterone replacement therapy.
Researcher have studied otherherbs and supplements for their impact on testosterone. For example,fenugreekandashwagandhahave increased testosterone levels in clinical trials.Supplementing with the mineral zinc and the hormone supplementdehydroepiandrosterone(DHEA) may also help raise testosterone levels.Avoid DHEA during pregnancy and breastfeeding, in people at risk for hormone-sensitive cancers and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), or with mood conditions.
Black cohoshandred clovermay help reduce commonmenopause symptomslike hot flashes and hormone imbalances.
Ashwagandha,rhodiola,passionflower, andlavenderare alternative herbs that may help treatstressandhigh cortisollevels.
When starting a new herb or supplement, always do your research to determine which option is best for you.
Summary
Tongkat ali is an herbal remedy used in traditional medicine for centuries.
It is most commonly used for low testosterone but may also be beneficial for energy, sleep, stress, diabetes, osteoporosis, and menopause. However, more research is necessary in many of these areas.
Tongkat ali supplements come in various forms and are widely available. Research on proper tongkat ali dosage is ongoing, but a typical dose ranges between 200 mg and 400 mg.
Tongkat ali is considered safe for most people, but talking with your healthcare provider before trying any new herb or supplement is always best.
21 Sources
Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read oureditorial processto learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy.
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