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Eurycoma longifolia (frequently called tongkat ali, pasak bumi, or longjack) is a flowering plant in the family simaroubaceae. It is belonging to indochina (cambodia, laos, malaysia, myanmar, thailand and vietnam) and indonesia (the islands of borneo and sumatra), however has actually likewise been discovered in the philippines. The plant is a medium-sized slim shrub that can reach 10 m (33 ft) in height, and is frequently unbranched. The root of the plant has been used in herbal remedies southern east asian area, and in contemporary times has common use as supplements, along with food and beverage additives.
Description
A medium size slim shrub reaching 10 m (33 feet), typically unbranched with reddish brown petioles. Leaves compound, even pinnate reaching 1 m (39 in) meter in length. Each substance leaf includes 30 to 40 brochures, lanceolate to obovate-lanceolate. Each leaflet has to do with 15– 20 cm (6– 8 in) long, 1.5– 6 cm (1– 2 in) large, and much paler on the forward side.
Inflorecense axillary, in big brownish red panicle, extremely pubescent with extremely great, soft, granular trichomes. Flowers are dioecious. Petals are small, extremely fine pubescent. Drupe hard, ovoid, yellow-colored brown when young and brownish red when ripe. The plant grows in the understorey of lowland forests, and survives on a range of soils but prefers acidic, well-drained soil.
Chemical constituents
Eurycoma longifolia has actually been reported to consist of the glycoprotein substances eurycomanol, eurycomanone, and eurycomalactone. [1]
Possible health advantages of tongkat ali
Historic uses of tongkat ali
Before moving on with the advantages of herbal medication, it is essential to take a look at its historical uses. That will help us understand why it is thought about a magic drug and is commonly revered.
According to a 2016 review by shaheed ur rehman and his team, the following historical uses of tongkat ali have been identified. These conventional uses are noted as follows:.
- Osteoporosis
- Syphilis
- Pains and aches
- Leukemia
- Indigestion
- Lumbago
- Jaundice
- Cancer
- Diabetes
- Fever
- Exercise healing
- Constipation
- Dysentery
- Itching
- Aging
- Diarrhea
- Intestinal worms
- Stress and anxiety
- High blood pressure
- Malaria
- Sexual dysfunction
It needs to be noted here that the historic uses of tongkat ali are not required all backed by modern-day research study but they might offer a direction for additional research in the future.
Possible health advantages
After taking a look at the conventional and historic uses of tongkat ali, we will take a much deeper take a look at what modern-day research states about its benefits. Following is a list of some of the most prominent benefits of tongkat ali.
Male fertility and testosterone levels
One of the most popular ways tongkat ali was used traditionally was for its advantages to the male sexual wellness and fertility. Modern-day research study competes that there is capacity for tongkat ali to improve the level of testosterone in men and enhance male fertility.
There is a range of reasons that low testosterone might take place in males including obstructive sleep apnea, chronic alcoholism infection or injury to the testicles, medications, radiation treatments, chemotherapy, and aging.
Low testosterone can cause a series of problems such as male infertility, impotence, and low sex drive. There are lots of compounds in tongkat ali that have the prospective to increase the level of testosterone in the body. Therefore, the intake of tongkat ali might help get rid of these concerns.
The testosterone-boosting impact of tongkat ali is so promising that some scientists have actually recommended its usage as a natural and more secure option to testosterone replacement treatment.
A research study comprising 76 test subjects with low testosterone count provided 200 mg of tongkat ali daily for one month. The boost in the testosterone level of the test subjects was significant. 90 percent of the guinea pig reported testosterone levels at typical values at the end of the trial.
In another research study consisting of 75 guinea pig, tongkat ali helped 14 percent of the included couples become pregnant due to the improved sperm motility and concentration after the topics were offered 200 mg of tongkat ali every day for 3 months.
These studies show that tongkat ali is effective in raising testosterone levels and enhancing the overall sexual health of males. Additional research study with larger sample sizes is required to develop treatment options based upon the research study.
Antidiabetic benefits
Another popular conventional use of tongkat ali that has actually shown significant pledge in modern-day research is its use as an antidiabetic substance.
Diabetes can be quite difficult to manage and a few of the drugs are either ineffective for particular people or come with a lot of adverse effects. Having a brand-new potential for treatment can be interesting and enable the doctor a larger breadth of options when handling a concern as complex as diabetes.
In an animal study performed by rafidah husen and their group, the anti-diabetic results of tongkat ali were very appealing. The rats consisted of in the study were hyperglycemic adults who got the treatment of aqueous extracts of tongkat ali in dosages of 150 mg/kg body weight. The result revealed that the blood-sugar level in those hyperglycemic rats decreased by 47 percent and 38 percent in two various kinds of tongkat ali extracts.
This reveals that tongkat ali has anti-diabetic residential or commercial properties. Surprisingly, when the normoglycemic rats were given tongkat ali, they did not see any considerable drops in blood sugar.
Another study revealed that tongkat ali enhances the blood sugar levels of those with diabetes by increasing their insulin level of sensitivity. It suppresses lipid accumulation and enhances glucose uptake at 50 μg/ ml by around 200 percent. Lipid accumulation likewise suggests that tongkat ali has the potential for a lot more advantages besides diabetes treatment.
Osteoporosis avoidance
Osteoporosis is emerging as one of the primary causes of death and morbidity in older men. That is why preventive and treatment research study for osteoporosis in guys is progressively ending up being a topic of research study.
Around one-third of females and one-fifth of guys over the age of 50 experience osteoporosis.
Just recently, tongkat ali has become a strong competitor for the treatment and prevention efforts of osteoporosis. It has actually shown to be more efficient for male osteoporosis as compared to female osteoporosis.
A 2011 animal research study by ahmad nazrun shuid and his team showed that orchidectomised rats benefitted significantly from supplements of tongkat ali and testosterone replacement. The rats were able to keep the levels of calcium in their bones due to the treatments.
Those rats that were provided tongkat ali showed substantially much better results as compared to those provided testosterone replacement supplements.
Tension management
There is also a significant potential for tongkat ali in decreasing and managing tension.
In a 2013 research study by shawn m talbott and his team, the impact of tongkat ali on stress hormonal agents was examined. In this double-blind study, the overall sample size was 63 and the research study lasted for a total of 4 weeks.
The research study concluded that the people taking tongkat ali showed a significant enhancement in their tension management. Their testosterone levels increased while the stress-inducing hormonal agent called cortisol was reduced substantially.
This revealed the potential of tongkat ali as a possible treatment alternative for stress management.
These outcomes were validated by a 2018 study by annie george and her group in which the combined effect of multivitamins and tongkat ali on individuals who were mostly great but were only reasonably stressed.
In this 24-week long, double-blinded, and placebo-controlled research study, those on tongkat ali reported better psychological health and wellbeing. [3]
Tongkat ali coffee
How to make it yourself
- Mixing powder into your coffee (or any other beverage for that matter) might prove to be difficult, as it doesn’t always liquify entirely. For that reason, i like to blend it in with a little pure coconut oil and ghee, bulletproof-style.
- Ghee is pure fat without the milk proteins (whey and casein) and sugars (lactose), so even individuals who are sensitive or intolerant to dairy can still use it. Just mix it for a couple of seconds (a mini blend works fantastic) and you’ll get a nice, velvety texture that tastes respectable. Ghee might be velvety or in some cases it liquifies at room temperature level. However, ghee does not need to be stored in the refrigerator.
The bitterness will still exist, but it’s a lot more tasty and the fat will help to enhance your hormonal agents and to deliver the tongkat ali throughout your system in a more effective way. [4]
Dosage and preparation
According to a 2016 review published in particles, the basic dosage for tongkat ali is 200 to 400 milligrams daily.2 however, care is recommended when taking this supplement, specifically in older adults. The authors of this evaluation say you shouldn’t take more than the suggested dosage.
Tongkat ali supplements are offered as a pill, tablet, or cast. You can likewise discover it in powdered form. Tongkat ali is likewise contributed to coffees, teas, and energy beverages.
Herbal-infused drinks are popular, but customers need to limit their intake of these products. A 2020 animal study released in nutrients looked at the effects of high consumption of eurycoma longifolia infused coffee on rats.11 they discovered that these tongkat herbal-infused beverages contained 2.5 grams of tongkat ali.
The authors of the 2020 study recommended people consume these kinds of beverages in small amounts. Drinking 2 cups of coffee with added tongkat ali would not go beyond toxic levels of intake. Based on the information from the rats, the scientists suggest people take in no greater than 1 gram of tongkat ali per kg of body weight (no more than 70 grams for somebody who weighs 70 kg or 154 pounds).
The fda says it’s not safe to theorize findings from animal research studies to human beings. [5]
Truths of tongkat ali for ladies
Utilized for centuries to support female health, tongkat ali still stays foreign to the majority of people. Luckily, a great deal of research study is shedding new light onto the herb’s advantages, particularly for women. Here are just a few benefits of tongkat ali for women’s health:.
1. Assists fight undesirable weight gain
Hormonal agents dictate metabolic process and an imbalance usually causes unwanted weight gain. A lot of us might have concerned accept that a particular level of weight gain and tiredness is a regular part of aging; however, this doesn’t need to hold true. Frequently, the reason we are gaining weight is merely since we are being exposed to environmental contaminants that are tinkering our natural hormone balance. Tongkat ali might help in lowering weight gain by stabilizing hormonal agents, and this applies to both males and women.
2. Increases energy
When the body isn’t producing adequate hormonal agents, or when its production has actually gone crazy, it can frequently result in low energy levels. Due to the fact that tongkat is an exceptional tool for balancing hormones, it has the additional result of balancing energy and metabolism. The increased energy may likewise be practical for supporting endurance during workout, linking tongkat back to weight reduction and upkeep.
3. Natural sex drive support
No matter your gender, a testosterone boost can be a valuable method for increasing sexual flame and desire. Folklore says that tongkat ali is practical for increasing the sensitivity of a lady’s erotic zones, even more increasing its libido-boosting qualities. While research study has revealed that the herb improves libido in male rats, researchers believe these impacts can likewise be replicated in women.
4. Promotes skeletal health
Low testosterone levels increases one’s possibilities of developing osteoporosis, an incapacitating illness defined by weak, delicate bones. While calcium, vitamin d, and magnesium all contribute in bone health, preserving hormone balance is key for managing the health of the entire body. Because tongkat motivates serum concentration of testosterone, it is believed that the herb may be an useful accessory towards enhancing and keeping superior bone health.
5. Mood assistance
Research has actually shown that tongkat ali reduces cortisol, our main stress hormone. Cortisol is produced in action to stress and is likewise one of the main factors to stress-related weight gain. In scientific trials, tongkat reduces stress, anger, and confusion. The herb may also minimize the results of everyday stress connected with diet, sleep loss, and even exercise. Improved memory is likewise connected with tongkat ali supplementation.
6. Encourages typical blood glucose
Preserving proper blood sugar levels through diet and workout is one of the very best defenses against type ii diabetes. Research study has confirmed that tongkat ali may add to this effort. Reducing refined carbohydrates in the diet, increasing workout, getting quality sleep, and sunlight exposure are also extremely useful ways to keep balanced blood sugar level levels. [6]
Should you take tongkat ali?
Some research studies recommend that tongkat ali might reduce stress and anxiety and enhance body composition, but research is limited.
It might likewise deal with low testosterone, poor libido, and male infertility.
While tongkat ali does not appear to have adverse effects in doses up to 400 mg each day, research study is restricted, and readily available research studies focus on short-term use.
It’s uncertain whether taking the supplements over longer periods is useful and safe.
If you have an interest in taking tongkat ali, consult your healthcare provider to make sure proper safety.
Furthermore, remember that some supplements may be contaminated with mercury. Plus, they’re not well managed and may contain basically tongkat ali than noted on the label. Search for a reputable brand name that has actually been tested by a 3rd party.
Lastly, pregnant and breastfeeding ladies should not take tongkat ali, due to the lack of research in this area. In addition, those with medical conditions or taking medications ought to speak with their healthcare provider before taking tongkat ali.
Summary
Tongkat ali might boost low testosterone, battle stress and anxiety, and enhance body structure, however research is limited. Talk to your healthcare provider prior to taking this supplement. [7]
Tongkat ali side effects – bodybuilding usage
When using tongkat ali at the dose needed to raise your testosterone for an extended duration, users will frequently press their testosterone up well above the norm. In these cases, the following adverse effects can happen:.
- raised hostility not uncontrollable but visible at times, this is typical of high testosterone levels from any source. If you discover this ending up being an issue, lower your dose, and the raised levels of aggressiveness will diminish.
- uneasyness when you use tongkat ali in high dosages, your energy levels will increase, and you might find yourself staying up later than typical and trying to find things to do. An outstanding method to counter this adverse effects is to get active, choose an evening walk, run, or invest the afternoon in the fitness center burning off that excess energy.
- spots with a big boost of testosterone in the body comes the risk of spots taking place, these tend to appear on the back and primarily in heat.
Keep in mind: the above adverse effects are a standard outcome of increased levels of testosterone in your body. To date, we have not seen any male pattern balding, loss of hair or gynecomastia (gyno) of any kind from utilizing tongkat ali. [8]
What other drugs interact with tongkat ali?
If your physician has actually directed you to use this medication for your condition, your physician or pharmacist may already be aware of any possible drug interactions or adverse effects and might be monitoring you for them. Do not begin, stop, or alter the dose of this medication or any medication prior to getting more information from your medical professional, healthcare provider, or pharmacist first.
Tongkat ali has no recognized severe interactions with other drugs.
Tongkat ali has serious interactions with at least 26 various drugs.
Moderate interactions of tongkat ali consist of:.
Tongkat ali has mild interactions with at least 25 different drugs.
This document does not include all possible interactions. For that reason, before using this item, tell your physician or pharmacist of all the items you use. Keep a list of all your medications with you, and share the list with your doctor and pharmacist. Contact your doctor if you have health questions or concerns. [9]
Special safety measures and cautions
When taken by mouth: eurycoma longifolia is potentially safe when taken in doses of 200 mg daily for as much as 9 months or 400 mg daily for 3 months. It is perhaps hazardous to utilize bigger amounts. Some eurycoma longifolia supplements have actually been discovered to contain mercury or lead. Taking too much eurycoma longifolia might lead to mercury or lead poisoning or other side results. Sildenafil (viagra), a prescription drug, has actually also been found in some eurycoma longifolia supplements.
Pregnancy and breast-feeding: there isn’t enough reliable details to know if eurycoma longifolia is safe to utilize when pregnant or breast-feeding. Remain on the safe side and avoid use. [10]
Conclusion
Tongkat ali seems to be an appealing solution for a number of health concerns. Some research study recommends that it is beneficial for male fertility, sexual efficiency, and stress. It might likewise be an efficient ergogenic help.
Some laboratory studies suggest the effectiveness of e. Longifolia versus cancer in test tubes. Nevertheless, research study also suggests that individuals with particular cancers ought to avoid using it.
There are some security problems for people who have certain health conditions and those who are taking specific medications. For that reason, a person ought to contact their doctor prior to taking any natural supplements. [11]
Referrals
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/eurycoma_longifolia#chemical_constituents
- https://foodsecurity.org/potential-health-benefits-of-tongkat-ali/
- https://lostempireherbs.com/tongkat-ali-coffee/
- https://www.verywellfit.com/the-benefits-of-tongkat-ali-89588
- https://explore.globalhealing.com/tongkat-ali-for-womens-health/
- https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/tongkat-ali-longjack-review#recommendation
- https://tongkatfitness.com/en-us/pages/tongkat-ali-side-effects
- https://www.rxlist.com/consumer_tongkat_ali_tung_saw/drugs-condition.htm
- https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-1132/eurycoma-longifolia
- Https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/tongkat-ali#summary