Written by Benjamin Lee - Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy Consultant - February 24, 2023
Tongkat ali, sometimes called Malaysian ginseng or Eurycoma Longifolia Jack, is a plant that grows in Southeast Asia. It has been used traditionally to treat a variety of illnesses and ailments including fever, malaria, and abdominal pain. More recently it has gained attention for its potential use as an aphrodisiac and to boost testosterone levels.
What Is Testosterone?
Testosterone is a hormone found in both men and women, although men have significantly higher levels. It plays a major role in male physical development, fertility, and sexual desire. Low testosterone can lead to fatigue, irritability, depression, low libido and difficulty gaining muscle mass.
Does Tongkat Ali Increase Testosterone Levels?
Research suggests that consuming tongkat ali may help increase testosterone levels in the body due to its active ingredient eurypeptides. A 2012 study published in the International Journal of MS Research found that participants taking tongkat ali for 4 weeks had increased testosterone compared to those taking placebo. However, these increases were relatively small—around 10 percent on average—and may not be significant enough for some people looking to increase their testosterone levels naturally. In order for tongkat ali to be effective as a testosterone booster other lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise may also be necessary.*
How Does Tongkat Ali Work?
Tongkat ali works by increasing the body’s production of luteinizing hormone (LH). LH is responsible for stimulating the Leydig cells in the testes which then produce more testosterone. Additionally, tongkat ali may help decrease stress hormones like cortisol which negatively impacts testosterone production indirectly during times of high stress.*
Are There Any Side Effects?
The most common side effect associated with taking tongkat ali is mild gastrointestinal discomfort such as gas or bloating however this typically subsides after two or three days once your body adapts.* In terms of long term safety there are no reports of any adverse effects at this time however more research needs to be done before making any definitive claims about its safety over an extended period of time.*
When Should You Take Tongkat Ali? **The advised dosage for Tongakat Ali is 200-400 mg taken daily on an empty stomach either first thing in the morning or before bedtime will maximize effectiveness. It should not be taken with food as it may bind with dietary fats preventing proper absorption into the bloodstream. Additionally drinking plenty of water throughout the day will also ensure optimal absorption rates.*
**Conclusion: **Overall evidence suggests that taking Tongakat Ali can moderately increase testosterone levels when taken consistently over time and combined with other healthy lifestyle practices such as exercising regularly and eating nutritious foods. However more research needs to be done before we can make any definite statements about its efficacy as a natural testosterone booster so it still remains uncertain whether it will work for everyone. If you're looking for ways to naturally boost your overall health BHRT Pro Center may be able to provide additional guidance and support tailored specifically to your needs!