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Eurycoma longifolia (commonly called tongkat ali, pasak bumi, or longjack) is a flowering plant in the family simaroubaceae. It is native to indochina (cambodia, laos, malaysia, myanmar, thailand and vietnam) and indonesia (the islands of borneo and sumatra), however has actually likewise been found in the philippines. The plant is a medium-sized slim shrub that can reach 10 m (33 feet) in height, and is often unbranched. The root of the plant has been utilized in folk medicine southern east asian area, and in modern times has typical use as supplements, in addition to food and drink additives.
Description
A medium size slender shrub reaching 10 m (33 feet), frequently unbranched with reddish brown petioles. Leaves substance, even pinnate reaching 1 m (39 in) meter in length. Each compound leaf includes 30 to 40 brochures, lanceolate to obovate-lanceolate. Each leaflet has to do with 15– 20 cm (6– 8 in) long, 1.5– 6 cm (1– 2 in) broad, and much paler on the ventral side.
Inflorecense axillary, in big brownish red panicle, extremely pubescent with really great, soft, granular trichomes. Flowers are dioecious. Petals are little, extremely great pubescent. Drupe hard, ovoid, yellow-colored brown when young and brownish red when ripe. The plant grows in the understorey of lowland forests, and makes it through on a variety of soils but prefers acidic, well-drained soil.
Chemical constituents
Eurycoma longifolia has actually been reported to consist of the glycoprotein substances eurycomanol, eurycomanone, and eurycomalactone. [1]
Prospective health benefits of tongkat ali
Historical uses of tongkat ali
Before moving forward with the benefits of herbal medication, it is very important to look at its historical uses. That will assist us comprehend why it is thought about a magic drug and is extensively revered.
According to a 2016 review by shaheed ur rehman and his group, the following historical uses of tongkat ali have actually been identified. These traditional usages are noted as follows:.
- Osteoporosis
- Syphilis
- Discomforts and aches
- Leukemia
- Indigestion
- Lumbago
- Jaundice
- Cancer
- Diabetes
- Fever
- Workout recovery
- Irregularity
- Dysentery
- Itching
- Aging
- Diarrhea
- Intestinal worms
- Stress and anxiety
- Hypertension
- Malaria
- Sexual dysfunction
It needs to be kept in mind here that the historical uses of tongkat ali are not needed all backed by modern-day research but they might offer an instructions for additional research study in the future.
Possible health benefits
After looking at the standard and historic uses of tongkat ali, we will take a much deeper look at what modern-day research states about its advantages. Following is a list of a few of the most prominent benefits of tongkat ali.
Male fertility and testosterone levels
Among the most popular methods tongkat ali was used traditionally was for its benefits to the male sexual wellness and fertility. Modern-day research study contends that there is capacity for tongkat ali to improve the level of testosterone in men and enhance male fertility.
There is a variety of reasons that low testosterone might occur in men including obstructive sleep apnea, chronic alcohol addiction infection or injury to the testicles, medications, radiation treatments, chemotherapy, and aging.
Low testosterone can trigger a variety of concerns such as male infertility, erectile dysfunction, and low sex drive. There are many substances in tongkat ali that have the potential to increase the level of testosterone in the body. Hence, the consumption of tongkat ali could help eliminate these problems.
The testosterone-boosting impact of tongkat ali is so appealing that some scientists have actually recommended its use as a natural and safer alternative to testosterone replacement treatment.
A research study comprising 76 guinea pig with low testosterone count offered 200 mg of tongkat ali daily for one month. The boost in the testosterone level of the guinea pig was substantial. 90 percent of the test subjects reported testosterone levels at normal values at the end of the trial.
In another research study comprising 75 test subjects, tongkat ali assisted 14 percent of the involved couples conceive due to the improved sperm motility and concentration after the topics were given 200 mg of tongkat ali every day for 3 months.
These research studies reveal that tongkat ali is effective in raising testosterone levels and enhancing the total sexual health of males. Further research study with bigger sample sizes is required to establish treatment choices based on the research study.
Antidiabetic advantages
Another popular traditional use of tongkat ali that has revealed significant promise in modern-day research is its usage as an antidiabetic compound.
Diabetes can be quite challenging to handle and a few of the drugs are either inefficient for specific people or come with too many side effects. Having a new capacity for treatment can be exciting and permit the physician a larger breadth of choices when handling an issue as complex as diabetes.
In an animal study carried out by rafidah husen and their group, the anti-diabetic effects of tongkat ali were really appealing. The rats included in the study were hyperglycemic grownups who got the treatment of liquid extracts of tongkat ali in doses of 150 mg/kg body weight. The outcome revealed that the blood-sugar level in those hyperglycemic rats decreased by 47 percent and 38 percent in 2 various kinds of tongkat ali extracts.
This reveals that tongkat ali has anti-diabetic residential or commercial properties. Interestingly, when the normoglycemic rats were given tongkat ali, they did not see any substantial drops in blood glucose.
Another research study showed that tongkat ali improves the blood glucose levels of those with diabetes by increasing their insulin level of sensitivity. It reduces lipid build-up and boosts glucose uptake at 50 μg/ ml by around 200 percent. Lipid build-up also recommends that tongkat ali has the potential for a lot more advantages besides diabetes treatment.
Osteoporosis prevention
Osteoporosis is becoming among the primary causes of mortality and morbidity in older males. That is why preventive and treatment research study for osteoporosis in guys is significantly becoming a topic of research study.
Around one-third of ladies and one-fifth of men over the age of 50 experience osteoporosis.
Just recently, tongkat ali has emerged as a strong contender for the treatment and prevention efforts of osteoporosis. It has proven to be more efficient for male osteoporosis as compared to female osteoporosis.
A 2011 animal study by ahmad nazrun shuid and his team showed that orchidectomised rats benefitted greatly from supplements of tongkat ali and testosterone replacement. The rats had the ability to preserve the levels of calcium in their bones due to the treatments.
Those rats that were offered tongkat ali revealed significantly better results as compared to those offered testosterone replacement supplements.
Stress management
There is also a considerable capacity for tongkat ali in decreasing and controling stress.
In a 2013 research study by shawn m talbott and his team, the effect of tongkat ali on tension hormonal agents was examined. In this double-blind study, the total sample size was 63 and the research study lasted for a total of 4 weeks.
The research study concluded that the people taking tongkat ali revealed a significant improvement in their stress management. Their testosterone levels increased while the stress-inducing hormonal agent called cortisol was reduced substantially.
This revealed the potential of tongkat ali as a possible treatment choice for stress management.
These outcomes were verified by a 2018 research study by annie george and her group in which the combined effect of multivitamins and tongkat ali on people who were primarily fine however were just moderately stressed out.
In this 24-week long, double-blinded, and placebo-controlled study, those on tongkat ali reported much better psychological wellbeing. [3]
Tongkat ali coffee
How to make it yourself
- Blending powder into your coffee (or any other beverage for that matter) may prove to be hard, as it doesn’t always dissolve completely. Because of that, i like to mix it in with a little pure coconut oil and ghee, bulletproof-style.
- Ghee is pure fat without the milk proteins (whey and casein) and sugars (lactose), so even individuals who are sensitive or intolerant to dairy can still utilize it. Simply mix it for a couple of seconds (a mini whisk works excellent) and you’ll get a great, creamy texture that tastes respectable. Ghee may be velvety or in some cases it liquifies at space temperature. Nevertheless, ghee does not need to be stored in the refrigerator.
The bitterness will still exist, but it’s a lot more palatable and the fat will assist to enhance your hormonal agents and to deliver the tongkat ali throughout your system in a more effective manner. [4]
Dose and preparation
According to a 2016 evaluation published in particles, the standard dosage for tongkat ali is 200 to 400 milligrams per day.2 however, care is suggested when taking this supplement, specifically in older adults. The authors of this review say you shouldn’t take more than the advised dosage.
Tongkat ali supplements are available as a pill, tablet, or cast. You can likewise find it in powdered type. Tongkat ali is likewise contributed to coffees, teas, and energy beverages.
Herbal-infused beverages are popular, but consumers ought to limit their intake of these items. A 2020 animal research study released in nutrients looked at the effects of high consumption of eurycoma longifolia infused coffee on rats.11 they discovered that these tongkat herbal-infused beverages included 2.5 grams of tongkat ali.
The authors of the 2020 research study suggested individuals take in these types of beverages in small amounts. Drinking two cups of coffee with added tongkat ali would not go beyond harmful levels of consumption. Based on the information from the rats, the researchers suggest people take in no greater than 1 gram of tongkat ali per kg of body weight (no greater than 70 grams for someone who weighs 70 kg or 154 pounds).
The fda states it’s not safe to extrapolate findings from animal research studies to human beings. [5]
Facts of tongkat ali for women
Used for centuries to support female health, tongkat ali still stays foreign to most people. Thankfully, a lot of research is shedding new light onto the herb’s advantages, specifically for ladies. Here are simply a couple of benefits of tongkat ali for ladies’s health:.
1. Assists battle undesirable weight gain
Hormones dictate metabolic process and an imbalance often results in undesirable weight gain. A number of us may have concerned accept that a specific level of weight gain and tiredness is a typical part of aging; nevertheless, this does not have to hold true. Typically, the factor we are gaining weight is just due to the fact that we are being exposed to ecological toxic substances that are messing with our natural hormone equilibrium. Tongkat ali may assist in lowering weight gain by supporting hormones, and this applies to both males and females.
2. Improves energy
When the body isn’t producing adequate hormones, or when its production has gone crazy, it can often result in low energy levels. Because tongkat is an outstanding tool for stabilizing hormonal agents, it has the additional effect of balancing energy and metabolic process. The increased energy may likewise be valuable for supporting endurance throughout exercise, connecting tongkat back to weight loss and upkeep.
3. Natural libido support
No matter your gender, a testosterone increase can be a practical way for increasing sexual flame and desire. Folklore states that tongkat ali is valuable for increasing the level of sensitivity of a woman’s erogenous zones, further increasing its libido-boosting qualities. While research has actually shown that the herb boosts sex drive in male rats, researchers believe these results can also be duplicated in females.
4. Promotes skeletal health
Low testosterone levels increases one’s possibilities of establishing osteoporosis, an incapacitating disease characterized by weak, vulnerable bones. While calcium, vitamin d, and magnesium all contribute in bone health, preserving hormonal balance is crucial for managing the health of the entire body. Considering that tongkat motivates serum concentration of testosterone, it is thought that the herb might be a helpful adjunct towards enhancing and preserving remarkable bone health.
5. Mood assistance
Research study has shown that tongkat ali lowers cortisol, our main tension hormone. Cortisol is produced in reaction to tension and is likewise one of the primary factors to stress-related weight gain. In clinical trials, tongkat decreases stress, anger, and confusion. The herb might likewise reduce the effects of everyday tension connected with diet plan, sleep loss, and even exercise. Improved memory is likewise related to tongkat ali supplementation.
6. Encourages regular blood sugar level
Keeping correct blood glucose levels through diet and workout is among the very best defenses versus type ii diabetes. Research has validated that tongkat ali may contribute to this effort. Reducing improved carbohydrates in the diet plan, increasing workout, getting quality sleep, and sunlight direct exposure are likewise incredibly practical methods to preserve well balanced blood glucose levels. [6]
Should you take tongkat ali?
Some research studies suggest that tongkat ali may reduce anxiety and improve body composition, however research study is restricted.
It may also deal with low testosterone, bad libido, and male infertility.
While tongkat ali does not appear to have adverse impacts in doses up to 400 mg daily, research is limited, and available research studies concentrate on short-term usage.
It’s unclear whether taking the supplements over longer durations is useful and safe.
If you have an interest in taking tongkat ali, consult your doctor to ensure appropriate safety.
Additionally, bear in mind that some supplements might be contaminated with mercury. Plus, they’re not well managed and may contain more or less tongkat ali than listed on the label. Look for a respectable brand that has actually been checked by a third party.
Finally, pregnant and breastfeeding women need to not take tongkat ali, due to the lack of research study in this area. In addition, those with medical conditions or taking medications need to talk to their healthcare provider prior to taking tongkat ali.
Summary
Tongkat ali might increase low testosterone, fight anxiety, and improve body composition, but research study is limited. Consult your doctor prior to taking this supplement. [7]
Tongkat ali side effects – bodybuilding use
When utilizing tongkat ali at the dose needed to raise your testosterone for a prolonged duration, users will often press their testosterone up well above the standard. In these cases, the following negative effects can occur:.
- raised aggressiveness not unmanageable but obvious sometimes, this is typical of high testosterone levels from any source. If you discover this ending up being an issue, lower your dosage, and the raised levels of aggressiveness will subside.
- restlessness when you use tongkat ali in high dosages, your energy levels will increase, and you may find yourself keeping up behind normal and searching for things to do. An exceptional method to counter this side effect is to get active, opt for a night walk, run, or spend the afternoon in the fitness center burning off that excess energy.
- spots with a large boost of testosterone in the body comes the danger of spots occurring, these tend to appear on the back and generally in heat.
Note: the above negative effects are a basic result of increased levels of testosterone in your body. To date, we have not seen any male pattern balding, loss of hair or gynecomastia (gyno) of any kind from utilizing tongkat ali. [8]
What other drugs interact with tongkat ali?
If your doctor has directed you to use this medication for your condition, your medical professional or pharmacist may currently be aware of any possible drug interactions or adverse effects and may be monitoring you for them. Do not start, stop, or change the dose of this medicine or any medicine prior to getting additional details from your physician, healthcare provider, or pharmacist initially.
Tongkat ali has no known serious interactions with other drugs.
Tongkat ali has major interactions with a minimum of 26 different drugs.
Moderate interactions of tongkat ali include:.
Tongkat ali has moderate interactions with a minimum of 25 different drugs.
This file does not include all possible interactions. Therefore, prior to using this item, inform your physician or pharmacist of all the products you use. Keep a list of all your medications with you, and share the list with your physician and pharmacist. Contact your physician if you have health questions or concerns. [9]
Special precautions and warnings
When taken by mouth: eurycoma longifolia is potentially safe when taken in doses of 200 mg daily for approximately 9 months or 400 mg daily for 3 months. It is possibly risky to utilize larger amounts. Some eurycoma longifolia supplements have been found to contain mercury or lead. Taking excessive eurycoma longifolia may result in mercury or lead poisoning or opposite impacts. Sildenafil (viagra), a prescription drug, has actually likewise been found in some eurycoma longifolia supplements.
Pregnancy and breast-feeding: there isn’t enough reliable information to know if eurycoma longifolia is safe to use when pregnant or breast-feeding. Remain on the safe side and prevent usage. [10]
Conclusion
Tongkat ali appears to be an appealing solution for a number of health problems. Some research study suggests that it is advantageous for male fertility, sexual performance, and stress. It may also be an efficient ergogenic help.
Some lab research studies indicate the efficiency of e. Longifolia versus cancer in test tubes. Nevertheless, research study likewise suggests that people with specific cancers should avoid utilizing it.
There are some security problems for individuals who have particular health conditions and those who are taking particular medications. For that reason, a person ought to check with their doctor before taking any organic supplements. [11]
Recommendations
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/eurycoma_longifolia#chemical_constituents
- https://foodsecurity.org/potential-health-benefits-of-tongkat-ali/
- https://lostempireherbs.com/tongkat-ali-coffee/
- https://www.verywellfit.com/the-benefits-of-tongkat-ali-89588
- https://explore.globalhealing.com/tongkat-ali-for-womens-health/
- https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/tongkat-ali-longjack-review#recommendation
- https://tongkatfitness.com/en-us/pages/tongkat-ali-side-effects
- https://www.rxlist.com/consumer_tongkat_ali_tung_saw/drugs-condition.htm
- https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-1132/eurycoma-longifolia
- Https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/tongkat-ali#summary