Tongkat ali originally came from Southeast Asia and was used as a medicinal resource and herbal remedy for centuries. It has been utilized to treat various health conditions and problems, such as bacterial infections, erectile dysfunction, and fever. Scientific studies that have been conducted show effectiveness towards improving fertility in males, stress reduction, and even weight loss, but more research still needs to be completed to show that these are guaranteed resolutions. However, even with these benefits, the Food Safety Authority in Europe put a warning disclaimer on tongkat ali that states it might cause DNA damage.
What Does Tongkat Ali Do for a Man?
It has been stated, whether by tongkat ali users or professionals in the healthcare field, that this herbal remedy has the potential to improve sexual performance in men. Tongkat has an aphrodisiac effect to it that can improve energy levels. Particularly with water extracted from the root, there is some evidence that shows that tongkat ali can raise testosterone levels and help treat erectile dysfunction. The components within tongkat ali that lead to these effects include alkaloids, diterpenoids, phenolic compounds, polypeptides, and quassinoids. More research must be conducted before these effects can be stated as entirely true, as little is known about its aphrodisiac effect and efficacy.
How Long Does Tongkat Ali Take to Work?
It will take longer than a few days to start experiencing the positive effects of tongkat ali. Some scientific studies have had participants see increases in testosterone levels within two weeks of the start of supplementation, while others did not see any changes until five to eight weeks after or even up to six months. It will very likely, on average, take closer to six weeks or longer to start experiencing improvement in erectile function, exercise performance, and increased muscle mass.
What Is the Negative Side Effect of Tongkat Ali?
High doses of tongkat ali can lead to potential DNA damage within the tissues of the duodenum and stomach. So, there are some safety concerns regarding the use of tongkat ali. However, the studies have not shown any side effects from using tongkat ali. Some studies have stated that a dosage of 1.2 grams or less is considered safe, but that amount has yet to be researched thoroughly enough to be claimed as fact. Also, studies have yet to examine the long-term use and effects of tongkat ali, so there is no assurance of how someone will react to taking tongkat ali over prolonged periods. One potential hazard that comes with tongkat ali is mercury poisoning – a study conducted in 2006 found that 26% of 100 different supplements tested contained mercury amounts higher than the recommended number. So, it is best to take precautions and receive advice from healthcare practitioners before supplementing oneself with tongkat ali.
What Should Not Be Taken with Tongkat Ali?
Three medications that should not be taken with tongkat ali are cyclosporine, hydroxychloroquine sulfate, and methotrexate. Many other prescription medications should not be mixed with tongkat ali, so research before supplementing with tongkat ali! Three natural remedies that should not be combined with tongkat ali are astragalus, echinacea, and maitake.
Which Is Better: Ashwagandha or Tongkat Ali?
Studies have demonstrated that tongkat ali increases testosterone production more than ashwagandha. Tongkat ali can increase testosterone anywhere between 58 and 581%. Regarding weight loss, tongkat ali has been shown to cause greater amounts of loss than ashwagandha. Ashwagandha is better at lowering anxiety and stress; however, if taken for too long of a period or at too large of a dose, it can lead to a feeling of emotional detachment or being unresponsive. A randomized controlled clinical trial testing tongkat ali showed a boosted immune system with increased T-cells. Ashwagandha and tongkat ali are equivalent in athletic performance improvement with better energy and stamina. Lastly, tongkat ali is better than ashwagandha at increased sexual performance in males with better sperm motility and longer erection time.
Choosing a healthy plant-based and vegan diet is most beneficial when it comes to:
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Higher levels of energy;
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Improved sleep;
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Aids in energy and overall happiness;
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Provides a sense of comfort and relief;
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Could prevent major diseases such as obesity and diabetes;
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Accomplish weight loss and management; and
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Improves mental and cognitive functioning.
There are really no excuses not to try healthier habits in your everyday life. If you are a man or woman looking for specific benefits of adopting healthier habits or just want to know about the general healing properties of herbs. Please remember to comment, post any health questions, or contact us directly!
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References
Khan, N. (2023, May 8). Tongkat ali vs ashwagandha: Which is better and safer? Benefits and side effects. Akarali.
Kotirum, S., Ismail, S.B., & Chaiyakunapruk, N. (2015, October). Efficacy of tongkat ali (Eurycoma longifolia) on erectile function improvement: Systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. ScienceDirect.
Streit, L. (2023, May 19). Tongkat ali (Eurycoma longifolia): Everything you need to know. Healthline.
Van De Walle, G. (2024, March 15). How long before tongkat ali starts to work? Transparent Labs.
