Description

Tongkat ali is a traditional Asian remedy for male sexual performance. Advocates of traditional medicine also use this plant to help relieve other ailments and health issues. There has been promising research into tongkat ali’s properties. However, people should be cautious about trying it if they have certain health conditions or are taking specific medications. Historical uses In Asia, E. longifolia is a well-known aphrodisiac and malaria remedy. People tend to use the roots, bark, and fruits of the flowering plant to make remedies. According to a 2016 review Trusted Source , in traditional medicine, people use E. longifolia to relieve the following conditions: sexual dysfunction malaria high blood pressure anxiety intestinal worms diarrhea aging itching dysentery constipation exercise recovery fever diabetes lumbago indigestion aches and pains syphilis osteoporosis The same review concluded that E. longifolia is a promising herbal remedy for some conditions. However, there is insufficient evidence regarding its safety and efficacy. People also use the plant roots to stimulate appetite and increase strength and energy. Others use them as an antibiotic. Traditionally, people drank a water decoction of the plant. Nowadays, though, there are many E. longifolia products available, including powders and capsules. The plant contains many bioactive compounds, including alkaloids and steroids. Quassinoids are the major active compound in the roots. Herbalists regard the plant as an adaptogen. An adaptogen is an herb that helps the body adapt to different kinds of stress, including physical, chemical, and biological stress. Benefits Tongkat ali may have health benefits for certain conditions. The following sections will look at some of these conditions in more detail. Male fertility and sexual performance Some research indicates that E. longifolia may enhance male fertility and sexual performance. According to areview Trusted Source , animal and human studies suggest that the beneficial effects may include: increased semen volumes, sperm count, sperm viability, and sperm motility increased production of testosterone enhanced erectile function and sexual performance A study in rats suggested that the aphrodisiac effects of E. longifolia may be due to the elevation of testosterone levels and enhancement of dopamine in the brain. Ergogenic aid Athletes sometimes use ergogenic aids to enhance their performance. E. longifolia may act as an ergogenic aid because it decreases stress and increases testosterone levels, according to one review. The researchers concluded that with high dosages and long-term supplementation, E. longifolia might have some benefit in relation to endurance performance. A pilot study in physically active people aged 57–72 years reported enhanced muscle strength and increases in testosterone following supplementation with E. longifolia extract for 5 weeks . Bone health A 2018 review examined the evidence for E. longifolia on osteoporosis in rats . It concluded that E. longifolia seemed less effective than other traditional Malaysian herbs. However, there could still be potential for its use in preventing bone loss, according to the review. Stress A study in the assessed stress hormones in 63 people taking tongkat ali extract or a placebo for 4 weeks. The researchers saw significant improvements in anger, tension, and confusion in people taking the extract. Testosterone levels increased, and levels of the stress hormone cortisol decreased. They concluded that tongkat ali might be an effective remedy for modern-day chronic stress, sleep deprivation, and exercise training. Another study from 2018 looked at the combined effects of E. longifolia and multivitamins in moderately stressed but otherwise healthy participants. The participants reported enhanced vigor and emotional well-being. Glucose concentrations also decreased, which may also have contributed to the participants’ well-being. Anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial effects Research indicates that E. longifolia is effective against bacteria, including Escherichia coli and Salmonella typhi. In test tube studies, extracts of the plant showed anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. *NOTE: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. **DISCLAIMER: There is no guarantee of specific results and results can vary.