Everything You Need To Know About Tongkat Ali
General Information
Scientific Name: Eurycoma longifolia
Any Other Names: Pasak bumi
Primary Constituents: Glycoprotein (Eurycomanol, Eurycomanone, Eurycomalactone)
Country or Region of Origin: Indochina, Indonesia, Philippines
Known Uses: Energy, Stamina, Endurance, Aphrodisiac, Libido Booster, Topical Pain Relief for Headaches and Stomach Aches, and General Tonic
General History & Introduction
Tongkat Ali is a medium-sized shrub and commonly used in a variety of supplements and beverages. It is prevalent throughout Indochina and Indonesia. The plant has a strong presence in much folklore and culture in the area as a versatile tonic, holistic medicine, aphrodisiac, antibiotic, appetite stimulant and general health supplement (Rehman et al., 2016). Both established literature and empirical studies have shown Tongkat’s long established value in reducing anxiety (Khanijo and Jiraungkoorskul, 2016). It is no wonder that the plant’s combined benefits to physical performance have made it popular in the world of athletics (2016). Tongkat has a lot to offer and is an extremely versatile herb.
Nootropic Benefits of Tongkat Ali
Energy, Stamina Booster
Both traditional and modern cultures have turned to Tongkat for its incredible energy-boosting properties (Rehman et al., 2016). The plant has gained popular traction within the body building and athletic communities by offering increased muscle strength and endurance (Khanijo and Jiraungkoorskul, 2016). There are studies which suggest the herb can enhance energy utilization and energy production. Tongkat also contributes to stamina by helping the body sustain more energy overtime and reducing fatigue (2016).
Aphrodisiac, Libido Booster
Tongkat is well-known throughout much of Asia as an herbal remedy for erectile dysfunction (Tambi and Imran, 2010). In fact, it has been stated that the herb can not only relieve stresses which prevent a stable libido, but many studies purport it also boost male fertility (2010). There are many studies which have suggested it could increase testosterone and overall sexual performance (Ang et al., 2000). In fact, it is even suggested that Tongkat Ali got one of its traditional nicknames “Ali’s Walking Stick” in reference to its aphrodisiac properties (Rehman et al., 2016).
Topical Pain Relief (Headaches and Stomach Aches)
Besides the fact Tongkat was used as a topical analgesic, the herb has been traditionally used for its purported antibiotic properties (Rehman et al., 2016). The plant has extremely potent fever-reducing properties (2016). It is also well-revered for its anti-inflammatory benefits (Han et al., 2016). Tongkat’s ability to offer topical pain relief and similar, anti-inflammatory properties, is due its ability to inactivate NF-kB signaling pathways (2016). Additionally, the herb is known to offer antibacterial and antifungal properties (Khanijo and Jiraungkoorskul, 2016). It has even been known to offer antimicrobial and antiparasitic effects (2016).
General Tonic and Other Benefits
Tongkat Ali is regularly used as a treatment for diarrhea, constipation and indigestion, aches, and even osteoporosis (Rehman et al., 2016). It has been used to treat syphilis and glandular swelling. It has also been used in cancer treatments and for its purported anti-aging benefits (2016). The plant has been used throughout traditional Indochina medicine as a natural treatment for anxiety (Khanijo and Jiraungkoorskul, 2016). There are many studies which prove it to be successful in reducing stress and promoting a calm physiological state. Part of the plant’s benefits to reduced stress and improved physiological state can be contributed to its antioxidant properties (2016).
Dosing and Usage Information
Typical dosing for Tongkat Ali as a dietary supplement is between 100 and 1000 mg a day, depending upon the potency of the extract (or dry herb). Typically, the root of the herb is used to produce extracts and supplements, as most of the active constituents are present in the roots (Rehman et al., 2016).
Side Effects
Tongkat Ali has been generally accepted as safe for use within established daily values.
Conclusion
Tongkat is a well-revered, popular plant and tonic throughout a large portion of Asian cultures. It is widely versatile and an easy-to-get supplement that offers many benefits to almost any nootropic stack. It has a strong background in offering energy, stamina, aphrodisiac, pain relief, and many other benefits. Although there are many reasons one might include this herb in their daily regimen, athletes in particular benefit from Tongkat Ali. Regardless, the herb is a valued part of traditional and modern holistic healing and a well-valued nootropic.
A Note from NooFiles
This article is intended to be used for information only. We want to remind you that consulting your physician is recommended before adding any dietary supplement of any kind to your daily regimen.
Sources:
Ang, H., Cheang, H., and Yusof, A. (2000). Effects of Eurycoma longifolia Jack (Tongkat Ali) on the initiation of sexual performance of inexperienced castrated male rats. Exp Anim. Vol. 49(1). Pp. 35-8. DOI: 10.1538/expanim.49.35
Han, Y., Woo, S., Choi, M., Park, Y., Kim, S., Yim, H., and Yoo, H. (2016). Anti inflammatory and analgesic effects of Eurycoma longifolia extracts. Arch Pharm Res. Vol. 39(3). Pp. 421-8. DOI: 10.1007/s12272-016-0711-2
Khanijo, T., and Jiraungkoorskul, W. (2016). Review Ergogenic Effect of Long Jack, Eurycoma Longifolia. Pharmacognosy reviews, Vol. 10(20). Pp. 139–142. DOI: https://doi.org/10.4103/0973-7847.194041
Rehman, S. U., Choe, K., and Yoo, H. H. (2016). Review on a Traditional Herbal Medicine, Eurycoma longifolia Jack (Tongkat Ali): Its Traditional Uses, Chemistry, Evidence-Based Pharmacology and Toxicology. Molecules (Basel, Switzerland), Vol. 21(3). Pp. 331. DOI: https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules21030331
Tambi, M. I., & Imran, M. K. (2010). Eurycoma longifolia Jack in managing idiopathic male infertility. Asian journal of andrology, 12(3), 376–380. https://doi.org/10.1038/aja.2010.7