Tongkat Ali

• Hormone Optimization
• Stress Reduction
• Anti-inflammatory
• Antioxidant

• Libido Enhancement
• Athletic Performance
• Muscle Strength
• Energy Levels
• Mood Support
• Immune Function

Tongkat Ali (Eurycoma longifolia) exerts its effects through multiple pathways, primarily involving hormone regulation, stress reduction, and anti-inflammatory actions. Its bioactive compounds, including eurycomanone, eurypeptides, and glycosaponins, work through various mechanisms to support hormonal balance and overall health.

Description: Functions as an adaptogen, helping the body respond to and recover from various stressors.

Mechanisms: Modulates stress hormone production, Supports adrenal function, Enhances cellular stress resistance, Improves energy metabolism during stress

Description: Exhibits anti-inflammatory properties that may contribute to its overall health benefits.

Mechanisms: Inhibits pro-inflammatory cytokine production, Reduces NF-κB activation, Modulates COX-2 expression, Quassinoids in Tongkat Ali demonstrate anti-inflammatory activity

Description: Provides antioxidant protection against cellular damage.

Mechanisms: Scavenges free radicals, Enhances endogenous antioxidant enzyme activity, Protects cells from oxidative stress, Reduces lipid peroxidation

Description: Supports physical performance and body composition.

Mechanisms: Increases testosterone, supporting muscle protein synthesis, Enhances energy production and utilization, Improves recovery from exercise, May support fat metabolism through hormonal optimization

Description: May support cognitive function and mood.

Mechanisms: Reduces stress-induced cognitive impairment, Modulates neurotransmitter activity, Provides neuroprotective effects through antioxidant activity, Supports healthy mood through hormonal balance

Description: Exhibits some antimicrobial activity against certain pathogens.

Mechanisms: Contains compounds with antibacterial properties, May inhibit growth of certain fungi and parasites, Traditional use for treating various infections

The effective dosage of Tongkat Ali depends on the extract standardization and concentration. For standardized extracts (typically 100:1 or 200:1), the common dosage range is 200-400 mg per day. For extracts standardized to specific bioactive compounds, such as those containing 2-3% eurycomanone or 22-30% eurypeptides, lower doses of 50-200 mg per day may be effective. Quality and standardization are crucial factors in determining appropriate dosage.

General Timing: Can be taken once daily or divided into two doses

With Food: Preferably taken with meals to enhance absorption and reduce potential stomach discomfort

Morning Use: Morning dosing may help with energy and performance throughout the day

Evening Use: Evening dosing may be beneficial for recovery and sleep quality

Cycling Protocol: Some practitioners recommend cycling (4 weeks on, 1-2 weeks off) to prevent tolerance, though clinical evidence for this necessity is limited

Extract potency varies widely between products. Look for standardized extracts with specified levels of bioactive compounds (eurycomanone, eurypeptides) for consistent results. Products standardized to 2-3% eurycomanone or 22-30% eurypeptides are considered high quality.

Moderate to low, depending on the extract preparation and standardization. The bioactive compounds in Tongkat Ali, particularly eurycomanone and eurypeptides, have varying absorption rates in the gastrointestinal tract.

Extract Type: Water-based extracts (traditional preparation) may have different absorption profiles compared to alcohol-based extracts. Traditional water decoctions have been used historically and may preserve certain water-soluble compounds.

Standardization: Extracts standardized for specific bioactive compounds (eurycomanone, eurypeptides) may have enhanced bioavailability of these targeted compounds.

Concentration: Higher concentration extracts (100:1, 200:1) contain more bioactive compounds per dose, potentially improving overall efficacy despite absorption limitations.

Food Interactions: Taking with meals containing some fat may enhance absorption of certain compounds, though specific studies on food effects are limited.

Individual Factors: Gut health, digestive enzyme activity, and individual metabolism can affect absorption and utilization.

Taking with meals containing moderate fat content to enhance absorption of fat-soluble components, Using standardized extracts with verified bioactive compound content, Liposomal formulations (emerging technology, limited commercial availability), Micronized powder forms for increased surface area and potential absorption, Combining with black pepper extract (piperine) may theoretically enhance absorption, though specific studies with Tongkat Ali are limited

Optimal Timing: Taking with meals is generally recommended to enhance absorption and minimize potential gastrointestinal discomfort.

Consistency: Regular daily use is important for maintaining steady blood levels of bioactive compounds.

Morning Vs Evening: Morning administration may be preferable for energy and performance benefits, while evening dosing may support recovery processes.

Divided Dosing: For higher doses (>200 mg daily), dividing into two daily doses may help maintain more consistent blood levels.

Primary Metabolic Pathways: Bioactive compounds undergo hepatic metabolism, primarily through Phase I and Phase II detoxification pathways

Elimination Routes: Primarily renal excretion of metabolites

Accumulation Potential: Limited evidence of bioaccumulation with recommended dosing

Detailed pharmacokinetic studies on specific bioactive compounds in humans are limited. Most bioavailability data comes from animal studies or is inferred from clinical outcomes rather than direct measurement of blood levels.

Tongkat Ali has a generally favorable safety profile when used as directed and in appropriate doses. Most clinical studies report minimal adverse effects with standardized extracts. However, quality control issues, potential hormonal effects, and limited long-term safety data warrant caution in certain populations.

• [“Insomnia or sleep disturbances (particularly with evening dosing)”,”Increased body temperature or feeling of warmth”,”Restlessness or increased energy”,”Mild irritability”,”Increased libido (may be a desired effect)”,”Mild gastrointestinal discomfort”]
• [“Elevated heart rate”,”Increased blood pressure”,”Mood changes”,”Headaches”,”Anxiety or agitation”]
• [“Significant hormonal imbalances”,”Liver stress (primarily with poor quality products)”,”Allergic reactions”,”Drug interactions with medications”]

• Hormone-sensitive conditions (certain cancers, endometriosis)
• Prostate conditions including benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and prostate cancer
• Liver disease or compromised liver function
• Heart conditions including arrhythmias, coronary artery disease
• Uncontrolled high blood pressure
• Immune system disorders
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding
• Children and adolescents under 18 years
• Scheduled surgery (discontinue at least 2 weeks before)
• Known allergy or hypersensitivity to Tongkat Ali or related plants

Pregnant Breastfeeding: Contraindicated due to hormonal effects and insufficient safety data

Children Adolescents: Not recommended for those under 18 years due to potential effects on hormonal development

Elderly: May be more sensitive to effects; should start with lower doses and monitor for side effects

Liver Impairment: Use with caution due to potential hepatic metabolism of active compounds

Kidney Impairment: Limited data; use with caution and medical supervision

Autoimmune Conditions: Theoretical concerns about immune modulation; use with caution

No officially established upper limit. Clinical studies typically use 200-400 mg of standardized extract daily. Doses above 400 mg daily have not been well-studied for safety and are not recommended without medical supervision.

Acute Toxicity: Animal studies show low acute toxicity with LD50 values indicating relative safety at therapeutic doses

Chronic Toxicity: Limited long-term studies; some animal research suggests potential for liver stress at very high doses

Genotoxicity: Mixed findings; some in vitro studies suggest potential DNA effects, while others show protective effects

Reproductive Toxicity: Insufficient data; avoided in pregnancy due to precautionary principle

Adulteration: Reports of products adulterated with synthetic drugs or hormones

Contamination: Risk of heavy metal contamination depending on sourcing and manufacturing practices

Standardization Issues: Wide variation in active compound content between products

Recommendations: Choose products from reputable manufacturers with third-party testing and standardization information

General Users: Monitor for side effects; discontinue if adverse reactions occur

Long Term Users: Periodic liver function tests and hormone level assessment may be prudent

High Risk Individuals: Regular monitoring of relevant health parameters under medical supervision

Safety assessments vary by region. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has expressed concerns about potential genotoxicity, while other regulatory bodies have not issued specific warnings.

Classification: Dietary Supplement

Structure Function Claims: May make limited structure/function claims related to testosterone support, energy, and sexual function when accompanied by appropriate disclaimer

Disease Claims: Not permitted to make claims about treating, curing, or preventing any disease

New Dietary Ingredient: Some extracts may require New Dietary Ingredient (NDI) notification depending on extraction method and history of use

Gras Status: Not Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) for use in conventional foods

Adverse Event Reporting: Subject to serious adverse event reporting requirements for dietary supplements

Current Regulatory Actions: No current FDA warnings or actions specific to Tongkat Ali as of last update

Pharmacopoeial Monographs: Not included in major pharmacopoeias (USP, EP, BP)

Industry Standards: Malaysian government has developed specific quality standards for Tongkat Ali products, No specific ASTM standards, No official AOAC methods for Tongkat Ali analysis

Testing Requirements: Botanical identification, macroscopic and microscopic analysis, chemical fingerprinting, Quantification of marker compounds (eurycomanone, eurypeptides), Heavy metals, microbial limits, pesticide residues, mycotoxins, Testing for pharmaceutical adulterants (particularly ED drugs in sexual enhancement products)

Cites Status: Not currently listed under CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species)

Country Specific Restrictions: Export permits may be required due to conservation efforts, Regulations on harvesting and export of raw materials, Subject to general dietary supplement or herbal medicine import regulations

Increased Scrutiny: Growing regulatory attention to quality, standardization, and safety

Sustainability Focus: Increasing emphasis on sustainable sourcing and conservation

Evidence Requirements: Trend toward requiring stronger evidence for health claims

Harmonization Efforts: Some movement toward international harmonization of herbal supplement regulations

Medium to high

Tongkat Ali supplements vary widely in cost based on extract quality, standardization, and sourcing. High-quality standardized extracts command premium prices due to the specialized extraction processes required and increasing scarcity of wild-harvested raw materials. The cost-efficiency depends largely on the quality of the extract and its standardization to bioactive compounds.

Raw Root Powder: $0.20-$0.50 per day (less effective form)

Basic Extract: $0.50-$1.00 per day (100:1 extract, 200-400mg daily)

Premium Standardized Extract: $1.00-$3.00 per day (standardized to eurycomanone or eurypeptides)

High End Formulations: $3.00-$5.00 per day (proprietary extracts with enhanced bioavailability or combination formulas)

Purchase larger quantities when possible, as price per dose typically decreases, Look for standardized extracts even if slightly more expensive, as they typically provide better results at appropriate doses, Consider cycling protocols (4 weeks on, 1-2 weeks off) to extend supply while potentially maintaining benefits, Combine with synergistic, lower-cost supplements like Zinc and Magnesium for enhanced effects, Avoid proprietary blends that don’t disclose exact Tongkat Ali content, as they often contain minimal effective ingredients

Testosterone Support: Generally cost-effective compared to pharmaceutical options for mild to moderate support

Athletic Performance: Moderately cost-effective; results may justify premium product costs for competitive athletes

Libido Enhancement: Typically cost-effective compared to alternatives with similar evidence

Stress Reduction: Less cost-effective than some alternatives like Ashwagandha which may have stronger evidence for this specific benefit

General Vitality: Moderately cost-effective but should be compared to less expensive adaptogenic herbs

Pricing Trends: Gradual increase in prices due to sustainability concerns and growing demand

Value Trends: Improving value proposition as standardization and quality control improve

Future Outlook: Likely continued price increases unless cultivation efforts expand significantly

Raw Root: 1-2 years when properly dried and stored

Powdered Root: 6-12 months when stored in airtight containers away from light and moisture

Water Extracts: 1-2 years in proper storage conditions

Standardized Extracts: 2-3 years when properly packaged and stored

Capsules Tablets: 2-3 years in original packaging

Liquid Extracts: 1-2 years, depending on alcohol content and storage conditions

Temperature: Store at room temperature (15-25°C/59-77°F); avoid temperature extremes

Humidity: Keep in low-humidity environment; use desiccants if necessary

Light Exposure: Protect from direct light, especially UV exposure; amber glass or opaque containers preferred

Air Exposure: Use airtight containers to minimize oxidation

Packaging Materials: Amber glass, opaque HDPE plastic, or foil pouches with moisture barriers are preferred

Ideal Conditions: Cool, dry place away from direct sunlight in airtight containers

Capsules: Generally stable; vegetable capsules may be more susceptible to moisture than gelatin

Tablets: Compressed tablets typically have good stability; coating can provide additional protection

Powders: More susceptible to moisture and oxidation; require proper packaging

Liquid Extracts: Alcohol-based extracts have better stability than water-based; preservatives often necessary

Color changes (darkening or fading), Unusual odor development, Clumping or caking of powders, Changes in taste (increased bitterness), Visible mold or other contamination, Loss of expected effects

Accelerated stability testing under controlled temperature and humidity, Real-time stability testing, HPLC analysis of marker compounds over time, Microbial limit testing, Sensory evaluation

Short Term: Original packaging sufficient for short trips

Long Term: Transfer to airtight travel containers; consider desiccant packets

Climate Factors: Extra precautions needed in humid or hot environments

Recommendations: Avoid leaving in hot vehicles or direct sunlight; keep in carry-on luggage when flying to avoid extreme temperatures in cargo holds

Natural Sources

Traditional Preparation

Modern Extraction Methods

Commercial Forms

Quality Considerations

Sustainability Issues

Regional Variations

Folklore: Named ‘Ali’s Walking Stick’ in reference to its reputation for supporting male virility and strength

Symbolism: Considered a symbol of male vitality and power in traditional cultures

Social Practices: Often given as a gift to older men or used in traditional ceremonies related to strength and vitality

Economic Importance: Historically an important trade item in Southeast Asian herbal commerce

Pre Modern: Primarily used in local traditional medicine by indigenous healers

Colonial Period: Documented by European botanists and physicians

20th Century: Began to be studied scientifically and commercialized

Modern Era: Standardized extracts developed, clinical research conducted, global market expansion

Early Texts: Mentioned in traditional Malaysian and Indonesian herbal medicine texts

Oral Traditions: Significant body of knowledge passed through generations of traditional healers

Colonial Records: Documented by European botanists and physicians during colonial periods

Modern Ethnobotanical Research: Subject of numerous ethnobotanical studies documenting traditional uses

Typical Preparations: Traditionally consumed as a tea or decoction made from 5-10 grams of root material

Frequency: Often taken daily as a tonic or as needed for specific conditions

Duration: Both acute use for specific conditions and long-term use as a tonic were practiced

Traditional Cautions: Often advised against use by pregnant women and those with certain ‘hot’ conditions in traditional medicine frameworks

Reported Benefits: Consistent historical reports of increased energy, enhanced libido, and improved recovery from illness

Limitations: Traditional use did not distinguish between pharmacological effects and placebo responses

Consistency: Remarkably consistent reports across different cultures and regions regarding effects on male vitality

Tongkat Ali has a moderate level of scientific evidence supporting several of its traditional uses, particularly for testosterone support, stress reduction, and physical performance. While the research base is growing, many studies are small in scale or have methodological limitations. The strongest evidence exists for its effects on testosterone levels, stress hormones, and certain aspects of physical performance.

Kotirum S, et al. (2015) – Meta-analysis on erectile function improvement, Limited number of comprehensive meta-analyses available due to heterogeneity in study designs and outcomes

Various trials investigating effects on exercise performance and recovery, Studies on cognitive function and stress response, Research on metabolic parameters and body composition

Long Term Safety: Limited data on safety beyond 12 weeks of use

Mechanism Elucidation: More research needed on precise mechanisms of action for various effects

Dosage Optimization: Optimal dosing strategies not well-established for different populations and outcomes

Standardization Effects: Better understanding needed of how different standardization methods affect efficacy

Women Specific Research: Limited studies focusing specifically on effects in women

Drug Interactions: More comprehensive evaluation of potential interactions with medications

Generally recognized as having meaningful effects on testosterone levels and stress response, with potential benefits for physical performance and sexual function. However, quality of products and appropriate dosing are important considerations.