The ability to focus and maintain mental clarity is critical for daily productivity and success. However, in today's fast-paced world, distractions, stress, and a lack of concentration are all common, which can impair performance. People of all ages experience symptoms such as forgetfulness, mental fatigue, brain fog, and difficulty focusing, which can have a significant impact on work, studies, and daily life.
One of the primary causes of a lack of focus and mental clarity is stress. Chronic stress can trigger the release of cortisol, a hormone that can impair cognitive function and lead to anxiety and depression. Mental fog, forgetfulness, and difficulty concentrating can all be exacerbated by a lack of sleep, poor nutrition, and physical inactivity.
Tongkat Ali, for example, is one of several natural remedies for improving focus and concentration. For centuries, this traditional herb has been used in Southeast Asia for its medicinal properties, including cognitive enhancement. In the sections that follow, we will look at the history, benefits, and recommended dosage of Tongkat Ali for mental clarity.
History
Tongkat Ali, also known as Eurycoma longifolia, is a medicinal herb indigenous to Indonesia, Malaysia, and other Southeast Asian countries. It has been used as a traditional medicine for centuries to treat a variety of ailments, including male infertility, low libido, and fatigue. It has gained popularity as a cognitive enhancer in recent years due to its ability to improve focus and concentration.
How it works
Tongkat Ali contains a number of bioactive compounds, including eurycomanone, quassinoids, and alkaloids, all of which have been shown to improve cognitive function. These compounds work by increasing the production of neurotransmitters necessary for cognitive function, such as dopamine, serotonin, and norepinephrine. Dopamine, for example, is involved in mood regulation, anxiety reduction, and memory formation, whereas serotonin is involved in mood regulation, anxiety reduction, and memory formation. Norepinephrine, on the other hand, is required for alertness, vigilance, and attention.
Tongkat Ali has anti-inflammatory properties, which can reduce brain inflammation and improve cognitive performance in addition to increasing neurotransmitter production. Chronic brain inflammation is linked to cognitive decline and neurological disorders like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease. Tongkat Ali may help prevent cognitive impairment and improve cognitive function by reducing inflammation.
Tongkat Ali has also been shown to increase levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a protein that is essential for neuron growth, maintenance, and survival. BDNF is required for the formation of learning and memory, and low levels of this protein have been linked to cognitive decline and neurological disorders. Tongkat Ali may promote neuroplasticity by increasing BDNF levels, which is the brain's ability to adapt and change in response to new experiences and learning.
Tongkat Ali's cognitive-enhancing effects are most likely due to its ability to increase neurotransmitter production, reduce inflammation, and promote neuroplasticity. More research, however, is required to fully comprehend the mechanisms of action and potential long-term effects of Tongkat Ali supplementation.
Studies and Results
Several studies have been conducted to examine Tongkat Ali's cognitive-enhancing properties. For four weeks, 63 participants were given either 200 mg of Tongkat Ali extract or a placebo in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study published in the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition. Tongkat Ali supplementation significantly improved stress hormone profiles and mood state in healthy adults, according to the study. Tongkat Ali, in particular, was discovered to reduce cortisol levels by 16%, increase testosterone levels by 37%, and improve mood state by 11%. These findings suggest that Tongkat Ali may have potential as a natural remedy for stress reduction and mood enhancement in healthy adults.
Another study published in the Journal of Traditional and Complementary Medicine looked at Tongkat Ali's cognitive effects in middle-aged adults. For four weeks, 32 participants were given either 200 mg of Tongkat Ali extract or a placebo. When compared to the placebo group, Tongkat Ali supplementation significantly improved cognitive function and mental alertness. Tongkat Ali, in particular, was discovered to improve working memory by 11%, visual attention by 7%, and mental alertness by 8%. These findings imply that Tongkat Ali has the potential to improve cognitive function in middle-aged adults.
A systematic review of Tongkat Ali's effects on anxiety and mood disorders published in the Journal of Traditional and Complementary Medicine discovered that supplementing with Tongkat Ali reduced anxiety and improved mood in animal models. The review did note, however, that there is a lack of human studies on the effects of Tongkat Ali on anxiety and mood disorders, and that more research is required in this area.
Overall, the research suggests that Tongkat Ali may have potential as a natural remedy for improving cognitive function, stress reduction, and mood improvement in healthy adults. More research is needed, however, to fully comprehend its mechanisms of action, optimal dosages, and potential long-term effects.
Recommended Dosage
The recommended dosage of Tongkat Ali for cognitive enhancement is 200-300mg per day. However, it's important to note that Tongkat Ali can interact with certain medications, so it's essential to consult with a healthcare professional before starting supplementation.
Conclusion
Tongkat Ali is a natural herb that has been used in traditional medicine for centuries. Its cognitive-enhancing properties make it an appealing supplement for those who want to improve their mental clarity, focus, and concentration. While more research is needed to fully understand its mechanisms of action, the studies that have been conducted thus far have yielded promising results. Before beginning Tongkat Ali supplementation, as with any supplement, consult with a healthcare professional.
References
Talbott SM, et al. Effect of Tongkat Ali on stress hormones and psychological mood state in moderately stressed subjects. J Int Soc Sports Nutr. 2013;10(1):28.
George A, et al. Eurycoma longifolia Jack (Tongkat Ali) in anxiety and mood disorders: A systematic review. J Tradit Complement Med. 2018;8(3):443-450.
Singh R, et al. Eurycoma longifolia Jack enhances libido in sexually experienced male rats. Exp Anim. 2002;51(5):425-428.