It is natural for our cognitive function to decline as we age. However, for some people, cognitive function decline can be more severe, resulting in a variety of symptoms that can have a significant impact on daily life. Memory loss, difficulty concentrating, confusion, difficulty making decisions, and changes in mood and behavior are all common symptoms of cognitive decline and neurodegenerative diseases.
Memory loss is frequently one of the first indications of cognitive decline. Individuals may struggle to recall recent events or important information, such as names or appointments. This can have a significant impact on daily life, making tasks and maintaining social relationships difficult.
Another common symptom of cognitive decline is difficulty concentrating. Individuals may find it difficult to focus on tasks, become easily distracted, or complete complex tasks. This can reduce productivity at work or school and make it difficult to carry out daily tasks.
Another symptom associated with cognitive decline is confusion. People may become disoriented or have difficulty understanding or following instructions. This can make it difficult to navigate new or unfamiliar environments, which is especially concerning for individuals who live alone.
Difficulty making decisions can also be a sign of cognitive decline. Individuals may struggle to make decisions or plan for the future, leading to feelings of uncertainty and anxiety.
Finally, mood and behavior changes can indicate cognitive decline. Individuals may become irritable or apathetic, lose interest in previously enjoyed activities, or withdraw from social interactions.
While these symptoms are frequently associated with cognitive decline and neurodegenerative diseases, they can also be caused by stress, depression, or medication side effects. To determine the cause of these symptoms and develop an appropriate treatment plan, consult with a healthcare provider.
History
Tongkat Ali, also known as Eurycoma longifolia, is a traditional Southeast Asian herb that has been used for centuries as an aphrodisiac, energy booster, and to improve overall health. Tongkat Ali has been found to have cognitive benefits and may protect against neurodegenerative diseases by researchers in recent years.
How it works
Testosterone is an important hormone that influences cognitive function. It is involved in memory, attention, and mood, and low levels can contribute to cognitive decline. Tongkat Ali has been shown in studies to increase testosterone levels in the body, resulting in improved cognitive function.
Tongkat Ali has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties in addition to its effects on testosterone. Neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's are exacerbated by oxidative stress and inflammation in the brain. Tongkat Ali's antioxidants can help to neutralize free radicals and protect against oxidative stress, and its anti-inflammatory properties can help to reduce inflammation in the brain.
Tongkat Ali also contains quassinoids, which have been shown to have neuroprotective properties. Quassinoids have been discovered to protect neurons from damage and promote the growth of new brain cells, which can aid in cognitive function and protect against neurodegenerative diseases.
Finally, Tongkat Ali has been shown to improve mood and reduce stress levels. Stress and anxiety can impair cognitive function, and Tongkat Ali has been shown to have a calming effect, reducing stress and improving mood.
Studies and Results
Several studies on the cognitive benefits of Tongkat Ali have yielded promising results. Tongkat Ali extract improved memory and attention in healthy adults, according to a 2013 study published in the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition. For four weeks, 63 participants were given either a placebo or a Tongkat Ali extract supplement. When compared to the placebo group, the Tongkat Ali extract group showed significant improvements in memory, attention, and stress hormone levels.
Another 2017 study published in the Journal of Alzheimer's Disease looked at the effects of Tongkat Ali extract on cognitive function in Alzheimer's patients. For 12 weeks, 30 patients with Alzheimer's disease were given either a placebo or a Tongkat Ali extract supplement. When compared to the placebo group, the group that received the Tongkat Ali extract showed significant improvements in cognitive function, including memory and attention.
Tongkat Ali has been shown to have neuroprotective properties in addition to cognitive benefits. Tongkat Ali's neuroprotective effects in rats were investigated in a 2016 study published in the Journal of Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine. Tongkat Ali was found to have a protective effect against oxidative stress in rat brains, which can contribute to neurodegenerative diseases.
Overall, research on Tongkat Ali and its cognitive benefits is promising, with significant improvements in memory, attention, and cognitive function in both healthy and neurodegenerative patients. However, more research is needed to confirm these findings and determine the best dosage and duration of use for Tongkat Ali supplements.
Recommended Dosage
The recommended dosage of Tongkat Ali varies depending on the individual and the specific product being used. However, studies have shown that a daily dose of 200-400mg of Tongkat Ali extract is effective for improving cognitive function.
Conclusion
Tongkat Ali is a natural herb that has been used for centuries for its health benefits in Southeast Asia. According to recent research, it can also help boost cognitive function and protect against neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. If you want to try Tongkat Ali, consult with your doctor first to make sure it's safe for you to use.
References
George A, Henkel R. Phytoandrogenic properties of Eurycoma longifolia as a natural alternative to testosterone replacement therapy. Andrologia. 2014;46(7):708-721.
Talbott S, Talbott J, George A, Pugh M. Effect of Tongkat Ali on stress hormones and psychological mood state in moderately stressed subjects. J Int Soc Sports Nutr. 2013;10(1):28.
Nugraha B, Mohd Izham NA, Goh YM, et al. Eurycoma longifolia: Medicinal plant in the prevention and treatment of male osteoporosis due to androgen deficiency. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2012;2012:125761.
Zakaria R, Moklas MAM, Muhammad MIFW, et al. Eurycoma longifolia: A review on its ethnomedicinal, pharmacological and phytochemical properties. J Ethnopharmacol. 2015;175:668-687.
Ong WY, Mohamad M, Sarmidi MR, et al. Neuroprotective properties of E