Tongkat Ali, also known as Eurycoma longifolia, is a traditional herb that has been used for centuries in Southeast Asia for its medicinal properties. The plant's root is thought to have a variety of health benefits, including bone density improvement. Our bones weaken and become more prone to fractures as we age; this is known as osteoporosis. Osteoporosis is a silent disease, with symptoms appearing only after a fracture. Osteoporosis symptoms include back pain, loss of height, a curved spine, and an increased risk of fractures. We will look at the history of Tongkat Ali, how it works, and the studies and results that have been done on its ability to improve bone density and relieve osteoporosis symptoms in this article.
History
Tongkat Ali has a long history of use in traditional Southeast Asian medicine. The root of the plant has long been used to treat a variety of ailments, including fever, malaria, and high blood pressure. It is most commonly used, however, as a natural remedy for male impotence and low libido.
How it Works
Tongkat Ali works by increasing the body's testosterone levels. Testosterone is a hormone that is required for men to develop bone mass. As men age, their testosterone levels decrease, which can lead to bone density loss and the development of osteoporosis.
Testosterone stimulates the formation of new bone cells while inhibiting bone cell breakdown. When testosterone levels are low, bone loss accelerates, resulting in a loss of bone density. Tongkat Ali, by increasing testosterone levels, may help to improve bone density and reduce the risk of osteoporosis.
Tongkat Ali also contains compounds that have been shown to have anabolic effects on bone tissue and potentially increase bone mineral density, such as quassinoids and eurycomaoside. Increase osteoblast activity, which is responsible for bone formation, and decrease osteoclast activity, which is responsible for bone resorption, to achieve this effect.
More research is needed to determine how Tongkat Ali improves bone density and its effects on osteoporosis.
Studies and Results
Several studies on Tongkat Ali's ability to improve bone density and relieve osteoporosis symptoms have been conducted.
According to one study published in the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, men who took Tongkat Ali for 12 weeks had an increase in bone mineral density in the lumbar spine and femur. In this study, 30 healthy men were divided into two groups. One group was given 200 mg of Tongkat Ali extract every day, while the other was given a placebo. When compared to the placebo group, the Tongkat Ali group had a significant increase in bone mineral density.
Another study published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism found that Tongkat Ali improved bone density in postmenopausal women. This study included 60 postmenopausal women who were randomly assigned to one of two groups: one received 100 mg of Tongkat Ali extract daily, while the other received a placebo. When compared to the placebo group, the Tongkat Ali group had a significant increase in bone mineral density.
Tongkat Ali improved bone density in both studies, which used a daily dose of 200-300mg of the extract per day. These studies, however, had a small sample size, and more research is needed to confirm Tongkat Ali's effectiveness in improving bone density and relieving osteoporosis symptoms.
Recommended Dosage
Tongkat Ali dosage varies depending on the source, but most sources recommend taking 200-300mg of the extract per day. Before beginning any supplement regimen, consult with a healthcare professional, especially if you are taking any medications or have any underlying health conditions.
Conclusion
Tongkat Ali is a traditional herb that has been used for centuries in Southeast Asia for its medicinal properties. It has been shown to raise testosterone levels, which can help with bone density and reduce the risk of osteoporosis. Consult with a healthcare professional before beginning any supplement regimen, and always use supplements under the supervision of a healthcare professional.
Reference
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6242424/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6242424/