Tongkat ali, or longjack, is an herbal supplement that comes from the roots of the green shrub tree Eurycoma longifolia, which is native to Southeast Asia.
It’s used in traditional medicine in Malaysia, Indonesia, Vietnam, and other Asian countries to treat malaria, infections, fevers, male infertility, and erectile dysfunction .
The health benefits of tongkat ali likely stem from various compounds found in the plant.
Specifically, tongkat ali contains flavonoids, alkaloids, and other compounds that act as antioxidants. Antioxidants are compounds that fight cellular damage caused by molecules called free radicals. They may benefit your body in other ways as well.
Tongkat ali is typically consumed in pills that contain an extract of the herb or as part of herbal drinks.
Historical uses of Aogubio Tongkat ali
In Asia, E. longifolia is a well-known aphrodisiac and malaria remedy. People tend to use the roots, bark, and fruits of the flowering plant to make remedies.
According to a 2016 reviewTrusted Source, in traditional medicine, people use E. longifolia to relieve the following conditions:
- sexual dysfunction
- malaria
- high blood pressure
- anxiety
- intestinal worms
- diarrhea
- aging
- itching
- dysentery
- constipation
- exercise recovery
- fever
- diabetes
- cancer
- jaundice
- lumbago
- indigestion
- leukemia
- aches and pains
- syphilis
- osteoporosis
The same review concluded that E. longifolia is a promising herbal remedy for some conditions. However, there is insufficient evidence regarding its safety and efficacy.
People also use the plant roots to stimulate appetite and increase strength and energy. Others use them as an antibiotic.
Traditionally, people drank a water decoction of the plant. Nowadays, though, there are many E. longifolia products available, including powders and capsules.
The plant contains many bioactive compounds, including alkaloids and steroids. Quassinoids are the major active compound in the roots.
Herbalists regard the plant as an adaptogen. An adaptogen is an herb that helps the body adapt to different kinds of stress, including physical, chemical, and biological stress.
Doses of 200 to 400mg daily of tongkat ali are normally recommended, according to a 2016 review published in Molecules.However, caution should be taken with the supplement, especially for older adults.
Tongkat ali can be found in the form of capsules, tablets, powders, and tinctures. This herb is sometimes included in testosterone-targeted supplements that contain other herbs like ashwagandha and tribulus.
Risks and side effects
A 2016 reviewTrusted Source on the safety and toxicity of E. longifolia reported that it does not seem to have detrimental effects on sperm in test tubes when the scientists used it in therapeutic doses. However, animal studies show that in higher concentrations, it may be toxic.
The same review concluded that scientists consider E. longifolia safe as long as people do not take it in high doses. The authors recommend taking 200–400 milligramsTrusted Source daily with caution, especially if the person is an older adult.
People who have hormonal cancers should be cautious of taking E. longifolia, as it may increase testosterone levels. Although laboratory studies have indicated beneficial effects, these effects may not be the same in the human body.
People taking medications to lower their blood glucose should speak to their doctor before taking E. longifolia, as it may increase the effects of these medications.
According to the review, some sources advise people with certain conditions to avoid E. longifolia. These conditions include cancer, heart disease, and kidney disease. People with weakened immune systems should also be cautious.
Summary
Tongkat ali seems to be a promising remedy for several health issues. Some research suggests that it is beneficial for male fertility, sexual performance, and stress. It might also be an effective ergogenic aid.
Some laboratory studies indicate the effectiveness of E. longifolia against cancer in test tubes. However, research also suggests that people with certain cancers should avoid using it.
There are some safety issues for people who have certain health conditions and those who are taking specific medications. Therefore, a person should check with their doctor before taking any herbal supplements.
Post time: Feb-08-2023
