Tongkat Ali, also known as Eurycoma longifolia Jack is a traditional herbal native to Southeast Asian countries (Malaysia, Thailand, Singapore, and Vietnam). Tongkat Ali supplements are commonly used to cure male infertility and enhance sexual performance. Additionally, it has been studied for more of its potential health benefits such as improving physical and mental health. In this article, we’ll explore more about this traditional medicine and various uses to improve overall health.
Do Tongkat Ali supplements come from the root or leaf?
Tongkat Ali supplements are typically made from the root of the plant, which is known scientifically as Eurycoma longifolia. Some supplements are made from the leaves of the plant, but these are less common.
Tongkat Ali Dosage
The appropriate dosage may depend on several factors, including a person’s age, sex, and health status. It is important to speak with a useful healthcare provider before starting to use Tongkat Ali, as they can help determine the appropriate dosage for you based on your specific needs and goals.
Increasing T Levels
If you are looking to increase your testosterone levels or improve fertility, you may start by taking a low to moderate dosage, such as 200-300 mg per day. This may be taken in divided doses throughout the day. If you are using it for the first time, it is a good idea to start with a lower dosage and gradually increase it over time to see how your body responds.
How does Tongkat Ali increase testosterone levels?
Some studies suggest that it may increase testosterone levels by inhibiting the activity of aromatase, an enzyme that converts testosterone into estrogen. Additionally, it may increase the level of luteinizing hormone (LH) which then stimulate the production of testosterone in the testes.
Maintenance
Once you have reached the desired dosage, you may want to maintain that dosage for a period of time to see the full effects of the herb. This may involve taking the same dosage of it every day for a few weeks or months.
Reducing Intake
If you’ve been taking Tongkat Ali for an extended period of time and want to lower your dosage, you may want to gradually reduce the amount you are taking over the course of several weeks. This can help your body adjust to the lower dosage and may help reduce the risk of side effects.
It is important to note that it is not intended to be used as a long-term treatment for any condition. If you have been taking it for an extended period of time and want to stop, it is a good idea to speak with a healthcare provider first to determine the best way to safely reduce your dosage.
What are the Effects of Testosterone on the Body?
Testosterone is a hormone that’s produced by the testicles in men and the ovaries in women, although it is produced in much smaller amounts in women. In men, testosterone plays a number of important roles in the body.
Libido & Erectile Dysfunction
Traditional usage has been shown to have positive effects on libido and erectile dysfunction. Human studies have shown that it helps improve sexual performance, by increasing testosterone levels, improving blood flow to the genital area, and increasing libido.
In addition, Tongkat Ali also has antioxidant properties which help protect the body from free radical damage. This makes it an ideal supplement for those looking to boost their sexual performance and libido.
Physical Fitness
This herb has been found to help improve muscle strength and endurance, reduce fatigue and improve physical performance, especially in men with androgen deficiency. By increasing testosterone levels in the body, Tongkat Ali helps build muscle mass and retain lean body mass. It also stimulates the production of red blood cells, which increases oxygenation throughout the body and leads to improved stamina. Additionally, it can help reduce recovery time after strenuous exercise and decrease lactic acid buildup in muscles.
Reduce Stress and Boost Mood
It also helps reduce the symptoms of stress and anxiety, such as muscle tension and fatigue. Additionally, it can help to improve mental clarity and focus which can lead to better overall mental health. It’s also believed to increase libido and sexual performance by promoting testosterone production in the body. Furthermore, it may also help to reduce cholesterol levels by reducing the absorption of dietary cholesterol from the intestines. This herb is loaded with antioxidants which can help protect against free radical damage caused by environmental toxins and poor lifestyle choices.
Male Infertility
Helps with male infertility by increasing levels of testosterone in the body, which can lead to improved sperm production. While dietary supplements like Tongkat Ali cannot replace professional medical treatment for male infertility, they may be used as an additional component in helping improve fertility levels in men.
Bone Health
Tongkat Ali can help reduce age-related bone loss, as well as reduce the risk of osteoporosis. It has also been found to be effective in treating fracture healing time, both in animals and humans. Additionally, it helps improve joint health by reducing inflammation and swelling, allowing more flexibility and range of motion.
What are Tongkat Ali Possible Side Effects?
Like any supplement, there could be side effects in some people. Common side effects of may include:
Restlessness
Long-term side effects from certain medications can be very disruptive to an individual’s life. Restlessness is a common long-term side effect that can cause difficulty sleeping, irritability, and difficulty concentrating. It can also lead to anxiety and depression if not properly managed. Other long-term effects of Eurycoma longifolia jack include:
- Weight gain or loss
- Fatigue
- Joint pain
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Diarrhea
- Upset stomach
- Headache
Raised Aggression
Taking Tongkat Ali may increase testosterone levels in the body and lead to increased aggression in some individuals. However, it is important to note that the link between testosterone and aggression is not clear-cut and may depend on a number of factors, including an individual’s age, sex, and hormonal balance.
If you are experiencing increased aggression while taking Tongkat Ali and find that it is becoming a problem, it may be helpful to lower your dosage of the herb. This may help to reduce the level of testosterone in your body and may help to alleviate any symptoms of increased aggression. Other psychological alterations involve mood swings and problems with memory and concentration.
Skin Spots
One potential long-term side effect of taking the supplement is the development of spots on the skin. This can occur in both men and women and typically manifests as small, dark patches or spots that may be discolored or raised from the skin surface. These spots can vary in size and color and may appear anywhere on the body, including on the face, arms, legs, chest, and back.
In some cases, they may even cause itching or mild discomfort. If you have taken Tongkat Ali for an extended period of time and have developed any types of spots on your skin it is important to consult with your healthcare provider to determine if this is due to taking the supplement or if there are other underlying causes.
Foods Items To Avoid While Taking Tongkat Ali
Tongkat Ali is a powerful herbal supplement that can provide a variety of useful benefits, but it’s important to be aware of the foods you should avoid while taking them. Certain foods can interact with the supplement, leading to potential health risks or even reducing its effectiveness.
These foods include:
Flax Seeds
Flax seeds are a good source of fiber, omega-3 fatty acids, and other nutrients, and they are generally considered safe to consume in small to moderate amounts. However, Flax seed contains Lignans, a plant-based compound that binds to and eliminates testosterone from the body.
Polyunsaturated Fats and Trans Fats
Polyunsaturated fats are found in vegetable oils such as corn, soybean, safflower, and sunflower oil. Trans fats are created through a process called hydrogenation which adds hydrogen to liquid oils to make them solid at room temperature. This gives food a longer shelf life but has been linked to many health issues like heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and some types of cancer. It’s best to avoid these unhealthy fats as they can interfere with their effectiveness and negatively affect your overall health in the long run.
Soy
Soy is known to contain phytoestrogens, which are plant-based estrogens that can interfere with the body’s natural balance of hormones and therefore affect how well Tongkat Ali works. In addition, soy also contains substances known as goitrogens, which can reduce the effectiveness of thyroid hormones and inhibit the absorption of essential minerals such as iron and zinc.
Alcohol
Alcohol and Tongkat Ali do not go well together. Alcohol can reduce the effectiveness and may even counteract its effects. Too much alcohol can cause nausea. If you drink too much it could result in severe dehydration or an electrolyte imbalance due to the diuretic properties of alcohol.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does Tongkat Ali take effect?
The length of time it takes for Tongkat Ali supplements to take effect can vary depending on the individual and the intended use of the supplement. It can take several weeks or even months for the effects of a dietary supplement to be noticeable. If you are considering taking Tongkat Ali or any other dietary supplement, it’s important to speak with a healthcare provider to discuss the potential risks and benefits, as well as the appropriate dosage and duration of treatment.
What is Tongkat Ali powder?
Tongkat Ali powder is a dietary supplement made from the ground root of the Eurycoma longifolia plant, also known as Tongkat ali or longjack. It is native to Southeast Asia and has been traditionally used as a testosterone booster, improves athletic performance, and more significant improvements.
What does Tongkat Ali tastes like?
Tongkat Ali has a bitter, earthy taste that can be quite strong when taken in its pure form. The flavor of Tongkat Ali extract (Eurycoma longifolia extract) has been compared to a combination of ginseng and ginger, but with a more assertive flavor profile. When consumed raw, this supplementation can be quite pungent and may leave a lingering aftertaste. It is often used in teas or as a supplement, which helps to mellow out the flavor. Some people prefer taking this supplement, which allows them to enjoy the benefits without having to experience the intense taste.
What is water-based extract Tongkat Ali?
A water-soluble extract of eurycoma longifolia is a type of extract that can dissolve in water and is made by extracting the active compounds from the plant using water as a solvent. This root water extract of Eurycoma longifolia is commonly marketed as dietary supplement (supplement for physically active male) for improving performance and well-being in men, increasing T levels, and improving athletic performance.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, Tongkat Ali is a plant native to Southeast Asia that has been traditionally used for its supposed health benefits. It is commonly marketed as a dietary supplement for male enhancement, increasing testosterone, and improving athletic performance. While Tongkat Ali may have potential health benefits, more research is needed to fully understand its effects and appropriate use.
It is not recommended to use Tongkat Ali or any other dietary supplement without the guidance of a healthcare provider. If you are considering using Tongkat Ali or any other dietary supplement, it’s important to speak with a healthcare provider to discuss the potential risks and benefits, as well as the appropriate dosage and duration of treatment.
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