Quick Info: How Does Tongkat Ali Help Men?
Helps with testosterone, libido, sleep, and more according to some studies.
What Is Tongkat Ali?
Tongkat Ali, also known as Longjack or Malaysian ginseng, is a herb that is native to several Southeast Asian countries including Indonesia, Malaysia, Vietnam, Cambodia, Myanmar, Laos, and Thailand.
Scientifically referred to as Eurycoma longifolia, the herb has been used for many centuries. Its main active glycoprotein compounds, quassinoids, and alkaloids, are found in the plant’s roots. Daily supplements of the extract offer several proposed uses and benefits, especially for men.
The supplement is primarily consumed in pill form, although herbal tea is an alternative.
Tongkat Ali Uses For Men
Improvements In Sexual Health & Fertility
The primary benefit of Tongkat Ali for men is proposed improvements to sexual health and well-being. Research has proposed that the supplement boosts testosterone levels by simultaneously boosting the production of androgen precursors and inhibiting the aromatase enzyme.
In turn, Tongkat Ali may boost erectile function while reducing the symptoms of erectile dysfunction. While quantitative data is limited, the supplement is also believed to work as a strong aphrodisiac that can;
- Boost libido,
- Increase pleasure,
- Enhance performance.
Tongkat Ali may also support improved male fertility by improving sperm motility and concentration levels. One study of 75 men found that a daily supplement of 200mg delivered noticeable improvements in both sperm concentration and motility, helping 14 couples get pregnant.
Assistance In Fighting Stress
It is believed that the relaxation properties of Tongkat Ali were a focal point of its ancient use. Studies into the proposed stress-reducing capabilities have shown a positive correlation between taking daily supplements and an improved state of mind – as shown below:
| Stress Response | Change After Taking Tongkat Ali Daily |
| Anger | -12% |
| Confusion | -15% |
| Cortisol Exposure | -16% |
| Tension | -11% |
| Testosterone Status | +37% |
Anxiolytic properties seen in the Tongkat Ali herb have also been highlighted as a potential defense against anxiety, directly as well as due to reduced stress levels. Crucially, it may help individuals adapt to different stressors due to its adaptogenic properties, which leads to a healthier stress response. This may also help suppress feelings of depression.
The proposed stress benefits may also feed into other benefits including improved sleep, sexual health, and athletic performance.
Helping With Sleep
The average man should sleep for 7-9 hours each night, but sleep quality is as significant as sleep duration. It is proposed that Tongkat Ali supplements have a powerful impact on supporting a better quality of sleep.
Studies into mice behaviors after taking Tongkat Ali show that “Eurycoma longifolia enhances wakefulness during active periods but facilitates sleep during resting periods”. While research is a little inconclusive in terms of data, anecdotal evidence suggests that men may sleep better after taking the supplement. One reason for this is the relaxed frame of mind.
Moreover, taking the supplement before bed results in a boost of testosterone during sleep which may help users wake up feeling fresh and full of energy. Tongkat Ali is reported to reduce sleep latency (the time it takes to get to sleep), which translates to improved REM phase and non-REM phase sleep. It also has a positive impact on sleep-waking and wakefulness, thus helping with several conditions like;
- Insomnia,
- Restless legs syndrome,
- Narcolepsy,
- Sleep apnea
Improved sleep patterns will subsequently aid several other male health goals, with benefits including; improved moods, increased muscle recovery, reduced stress, alleviated anxiety, and increased energy levels.
However, insomnia is one of the potential side effects that some men experience after taking Tongkat Ali supplements. If the herb exacerbates the situation rather than relieves symptoms, it is advised to stop.
Support With Athletic Performance
Tongkat Ali’s proposed testosterone-boosting capabilities naturally lead many men to believe that the supplement may help their athletic performance. The potential of Longjack is supported by several other factors.
It is proposed that the herb’s quassinoids (eurycomaoside, eurycolactone, and eurycomanone) are capable of reducing fatigue during exercise due to greater levels of efficiency. The supplement may, therefore, improve both athletic performance and body composition.
One study found that men who took a daily extract of Tongkat Ali enjoyed increased lean body mass growth and strength as well as improved fat loss levels. While it is not a performance-enhancing drug, the supplement may share some of the ergogenic benefits seen in PEDs. Ultimately, it may help men during exercise by;
- Allowing them to exercise at high intensity for longer.
- Using energy more efficiently to boost maximum performance levels,
- Boosting adenosine triphosphate (ATP) production to energize muscles,
- Improving body composition with lean muscle mass growth,
- Releasing free testosterone from its binding proteins for enhanced function.
Supported by rodent studies too, there is strong evidence to suggest that Tongkat Ali will subsequently help men perform better and for longer. If a placebo effect is to be seen too, the gym is one of the top places to find it.
Aiding General Wellness
The potential benefits of Tongkat Ali aren’t only relevant to men seeking solutions to specific issues like ED or poor athletic performance. A growing number of men now take the supplement for general wellness.
Triterpenes found in the herb contain antioxidants and may help reduce cholesterol levels. Meanwhile, anti-inflammatory properties are seen in quassinoid compounds, which also may provide a defense against cancer and various diseases. It may also optimize and regulate hormonal balance for stable wellness.
The following table highlights some of the key features:
| Property | Found In | Health Benefits |
| Anti-Inflammation | Quassinoid | Reduce physical pain Improve cognitive function Reduce blood pressure |
| Antioxidants | Triterpenes | Fight free radicals Reduce cancer risk Support immunization |
| Hormonal Balance | Eurycomanone | Aid physical energy levels Support mental wellness Promote stability |
| Anti-ageing | Eurycomanone | Promote smooth skin Improve hair Support healthy nails |
Tongkat Ali may be a useful addition for men of all ages, but particularly older men who experience reduced testosterone and may be otherwise prone to injuries and wellness issues.
Improving Weight Loss Efforts
Tongkat Ali may help weight loss by supporting improved athletic performance and endurance, thus leading to increased calorie burning. However, the herbal supplement has also been shown to potentially boost metabolisms and suppress appetites.
It achieves this through increased thermogenesis, which leads to increased calorie burning even at rest. One study found that men taking the supplement can see their fat mass and waistline fall. This can;
- Help boost weight loss on a structured plan,
- Bring obese people back to a healthy BMI,
- Promote sustained weight loss.
Suppressed appetites may also help aid muscle recovery during rest, feeding into a healthy lifestyle.
Tongkat Ali Dosage Levels
Whether consumed as a pill (extract), tea (decoction), or powder, selecting the right dosage levels is essential.
Before taking Tongkat Ali supplements, you should know that your personal dosage requirements can be influenced by several factors including body size, general health, and desired outcomes. It is also best to start with a low dosage and slowly increase it until the best results are found. However, the following table gives general advice:
| Purpose | Daily Dosage (Average) |
| General Health | 200mg – 300mg |
| Sexual Health | 200mg – 300mg |
| Athletic Performance | 400mg – 600mg |
Breaks should be incorporated once every two months to prevent a tolerance. It is also extremely important to check the other ingredients included in your exact product. Some, for example, will include higher levels of mercury, which could put you at risk of mercury poisoning if high levels of Tongkat Ali are consumed.
Can Tongkat Ali Be Used By Women?
While the desired benefits may differ between men and women, it is shown that Tongkat Ali’s physiological and psychological impacts are seen in females too. However, any woman looking to start taking the supplement is advised to research the potential pros, cons, and dosages with a focus on the female body.
Summary: What Does Tongkat Do For Men?
- Supports testosterone levels.
- May support gym performance.
- May boost libido.
- Supports improved sleep.
- Read this study for more information.
