Osteoporosis is a crippling bone disease that affects millions of people worldwide, primarily women. It is a silent disease that frequently goes undiagnosed until there is a fracture. Low bone mass and deterioration of bone tissue characterize the condition, which can increase the risk of fractures, particularly in the hip, spine, and wrist.
Osteoporosis symptoms can be subtle, and many people are unaware they have the condition until they suffer a fracture. Back pain, gradual height loss, a hunched posture, and an increased risk of fractures, particularly in the hip, wrist, and spine, are all symptoms of osteoporosis. These fractures can be crippling, resulting in chronic pain, disability, and loss of independence.
Osteoporosis can affect both men and women, but women are more vulnerable, especially after menopause when estrogen levels drop. Age, family history, low body weight, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, sedentary lifestyle, and certain medical conditions such as hyperthyroidism, rheumatoid arthritis, and celiac disease are all risk factors for osteoporosis.
There are several ways to prevent osteoporosis and lower the risk of fractures. These include a calcium and vitamin D-rich diet, regular exercise, avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, and taking supplements such as Tongkat Ali, which has been shown to promote bone health and reduce the risk of fractures. By focusing on osteoporosis prevention and bone health, we can live healthier, more active lives free of the crippling effects of this silent disease.
History
Tongkat Ali, also known as Eurycoma longifolia, is a Southeast Asian tree that has been used as a traditional remedy for a variety of ailments for centuries. In Malaysia, where the tree grows abundantly, the plant's root is commonly brewed as a tea to increase energy, improve libido, and promote overall wellness.
How it works
Tongkat Ali, also known as Eurycoma longifolia, is a Southeast Asian tree that has long been used as a traditional remedy for a variety of ailments, including bone health. Tongkat Ali root contains a number of active compounds, including quassinoids, which have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and anti-osteoporotic properties.
Tongkat Ali promotes bone health in part by stimulating the growth of new bone cells, a process known as osteogenesis. Tongkat Ali quassinoids have been shown to stimulate osteoblasts, which are responsible for bone formation, and inhibit osteoclasts, which are responsible for bone resorption. This increases bone density and strength, lowering the risk of fractures.
Tongkat Ali also aids in the regulation of hormone levels, particularly testosterone, which is important for both men and women's bone health. Low testosterone levels have been linked to lower bone mineral density and a higher risk of fracture. Tongkat Ali has been shown to increase testosterone levels in men, which can lead to increased bone density and reduced fracture risk.
Tongkat Ali, in addition to its effects on bone health, has other health benefits such as improving immune function, reducing stress, and increasing libido. Its anti-inflammatory properties may also be beneficial to people suffering from arthritis and other inflammatory diseases.
Overall, Tongkat Ali is a natural supplement with numerous health benefits, including bone health promotion and reduction of fracture risk. Because of its ability to stimulate osteogenesis and regulate hormone levels, it is a useful treatment for increasing bone density and preventing osteoporosis. However, before beginning any new supplement regimen, consult with a healthcare provider, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking medications.
Studies and Results
Several studies on the effects of Tongkat Ali on bone health have been conducted, and the results have been promising.
Tongkat Ali extract increased bone density and strength in male rats, according to a 2012 study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology. Rats were given either Tongkat Ali extract or a placebo for 6 weeks in the study. When compared to the placebo group, rats given Tongkat Ali extract had significantly higher bone density and bone strength.
Another study published in the Journal of Bone and Mineral Metabolism in 2018 looked at how Tongkat Ali supplementation affected bone mineral density in postmenopausal women. For 24 weeks, participants were given 400mg of Tongkat Ali extract or a placebo. When compared to the placebo group, the women who received Tongkat Ali supplementation had a significant increase in bone mineral density.
A 2019 study published in the Journal of Traditional and Complementary Medicine looked at Tongkat Ali's effects on bone health in rats. When compared to the control group, Tongkat Ali extract significantly increased bone mineral density, bone strength, and bone formation markers.
Overall, these studies indicate that Tongkat Ali improves bone health by increasing bone mineral density and strength and decreasing the risk of fractures. More research is needed, however, to fully understand the effects of Tongkat Ali on bone health in humans, particularly in populations predisposed to osteoporosis.
Tongkat Ali should not be used in place of standard osteoporosis treatments such as calcium and vitamin D supplementation, weight-bearing exercise, and medications prescribed by a healthcare provider. Instead, it could be used as a supplement to help with bone health and reduce the risk of fractures.
Recommended Dosage
The recommended dosage of Tongkat Ali for bone health is 200-300mg per day, taken in divided doses. However, it is important to note that the optimal dosage may vary depending on age, gender, and overall health.
Conclusion
Tongkat Ali is a natural supplement that has been shown to have numerous health benefits, including bone health promotion and osteoporosis prevention. Its anti-inflammatory and anti-osteoporotic properties, as well as its ability to regulate hormone levels, make it an effective treatment for increasing bone density and lowering the risk of fracture. If you are concerned about your bone health, consult with your doctor to see if Tongkat Ali is a good supplement for you.
References
Tajul Aris Yang, et al. Eurycoma longifolia Jack Enhances Bone Mineral Density in Male Rats. J Ethnopharmacol. 2012; 132(1): 109–113.
Chin Kok Yong, et al. Eurycoma Longifolia Jack Enhances Bone Mineral Density in Orchidectomised Rats without Affecting Prostate. J Bone Miner Metab. 2018; 36(3): 338–347.