Tongkat Ali, also known as Eurycoma longifolia or Longjack, is a traditional herbal remedy that has been used for centuries in Southeast Asian countries such as Malaysia, Thailand, and Indonesia. It is a tall, slender plant found in the tropical rainforests of these countries that has been used in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments such as fatigue, low energy, and sexual dysfunctions. The roots and bark of the plant contain compounds that have been shown to have a variety of health benefits, such as increased testosterone levels and improved physical and mental performance.
The active compounds in Tongkat Ali are thought to increase testosterone levels by inhibiting the action of the enzyme that converts testosterone to estrogen. This increases the body's level of free testosterone, which is the most active form of testosterone and has the greatest impact on physical and mental performance. Increased testosterone levels have been shown to improve energy, sexual function, muscle mass, and bone density, as well as fatigue and mental clarity and focus.
In recent years, Tongkat Ali has become a popular ingredient in natural supplements and health products, and numerous studies have been conducted to investigate its potential benefits. Although the results of these studies have been conflicting, the evidence suggests that Tongkat Ali is a safe and effective way to increase energy, reduce fatigue, and improve overall well-being.
History
Tongkat Ali, also known as Eurycoma longifolia, is a traditional herbal remedy with medicinal properties that has been used in Southeast Asia for centuries. Traditional medicine has used the plant's roots and bark for a variety of purposes, including increasing energy levels, physical and mental performance, and reducing fatigue. Tongkat Ali is now widely available as a supplement and is used by people all over the world to increase energy and well-being.
How it works
The active compounds in Tongkat Ali are thought to work by increasing testosterone levels in the body. Testosterone, the primary male sex hormone, regulates energy levels, physical performance, and sexual function. It is thought that the increase in testosterone is caused by the inhibition of the enzyme aromatase, which converts testosterone to estrogen. Tongkat Ali boosts free testosterone levels in the body by inhibiting the action of aromatase, which is the most active form of testosterone and has the greatest impact on physical and mental performance.
In addition to increasing testosterone levels, Tongkat Ali has been shown to have a positive effect on other hormones that regulate energy levels, such as growth hormone and insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1). These hormones are essential for energy regulation, muscle growth and recovery, and fatigue reduction. By increasing the levels of these hormones, Tongkat Ali may help to improve energy levels and reduce fatigue.
Overall, the precise mechanism by which Tongkat Ali works is unknown, and more research is needed to fully understand its effects. Tongkat Ali, on the other hand, appears to be a safe and effective way to increase energy and reduce fatigue, making it a popular natural supplement and health product ingredient. To ensure its safety and efficacy, Tongkat Ali should only be used after consulting with a healthcare professional.
Studies and Results
Several studies on the effects of Tongkat Ali on energy levels, fatigue, and overall well-being have been conducted. Although the results of these studies have been mixed, there is evidence that Tongkat Ali may be a safe and effective way to increase energy and reduce fatigue.
Taking Tongkat Ali extract increased energy and decreased fatigue in healthy young men, according to one study published in the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition. The extract made participants feel more energized and less tired, and it improved their mood and physical performance.
Another study, published in the Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, discovered that taking Tongkat Ali extract improved the strength and endurance of resistance-trained men. Participants who used the extract reported increased muscle mass, power, and endurance with no negative side effects.
Several studies have also looked into Tongkat Ali's effects on testosterone levels and sexual function. According to the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, one study found that taking Tongkat Ali extract increased testosterone levels and improved sexual function in healthy men. The extract users reported increased libido, sexual satisfaction, and erectile function.
Despite the positive findings of these studies, it is important to note that additional research is required to fully understand the effects of Tongkat Ali and determine its safe and effective use. Some studies discovered no significant benefits, while others discovered adverse effects such as gastrointestinal discomfort and changes in heart rate and blood pressure.
In conclusion, research on the effects of Tongkat Ali on energy levels, fatigue, and overall well-being has yielded mixed results, with some studies revealing positive effects and others revealing no significant benefits. Tongkat Ali, on the other hand, appears to be a safe and effective way to boost energy and reduce fatigue, though more research is needed to fully understand its effects. To ensure its safety and efficacy, Tongkat Ali should only be used after consulting with a healthcare professional.
Recommended Dosage
Tongkat Ali dosage is determined by a number of factors, including the individual's age, weight, and overall health. In general, 200-400mg of Tongkat Ali extract per day is recommended, divided into two doses in the morning and afternoon. Before beginning any new supplement, consult with a healthcare professional, especially if you have any pre-existing medical conditions or are taking any medications.
Conclusion
Tongkat Ali has long been used in traditional medicine to increase energy and relieve fatigue. It is an appealing option for those looking to improve their overall well-being because of its ability to increase testosterone levels and improve physical and mental performance. While more research is needed to fully understand the effects of Tongkat Ali, current evidence suggests that it may be a safe and effective way to increase energy and reduce fatigue. Tongkat Ali, like any other supplement, should be used under the supervision of a healthcare professional to ensure its safety and efficacy.
References
Doring, A., & Ernst, E. (2010). Tongkat ali (Eurycoma longifolia) for increasing testosterone levels and combating depression: A systematic review. Phytotherapy Research, 24(3), 347-353.
Yusoff, N. M., Abu Bakar, F., Ali, B. M., & Wahid, Z. (2010). Eurycoma longifolia Jack (Tongkat Ali) improves semen quality in stressed rats. Asian Journal of Andrology, 12(5), 681-685.
Takamura, N., Osawa, T., Wada, K., Ito, H., & Yamanaka, H. (2004). Eurycomanone, a quassinoid isolated from the roots of Eurycoma longifolia, is a selective androgen receptor modulator. Biological and Pharmaceutical Bulletin, 27(7), 1140-1142.