Quick Info: How Long Before Tongkat Ali Starts to Work?

The effects of it can vary with some users experiencing an immediate energy boost, while other changes like improved sex drive and muscle tone may take weeks. The general time frame for measurable results can be as little as 24 hours up to 12 weeks.

The Different Results 

Everybody is different, and it’s essential to note that the effects of Tongkat Ali can vary from person to person because there are many benefits, such as increased energy, sex drive, and muscle tone. 

Some users report feeling an increase in their vitality in a matter of hours after taking the supplement. Other changes, such as improvements in sex drive and muscle tone, can take effect more gradually. 

Typical users report these types of changes start after a few weeks of supplementing with it, which is likely because the body’s metabolic mechanisms can respond slower.

What Is the General Time Frame for Results?

It can take between 24 hours to 12 weeks to produce measurable results. The time Tongkat Ali takes for Tongkat Ali to work can vary based on different factors, including:

Clock and Tongkat Ali supplements, pondering the best timing for consumption

The Quality of the Extract

When purchasing Tongkat Ali, people should be aware that while the recommended dosage of 200 mg to 400 mg per day may work for most people, this amount refers to human clinical trials, which come with their own highly controlled parameters based on a standardized extract of Tongkat Ali. Therefore, Tongkat Ali may be essential to have a higher dose if the extract is of lower quality. There could be many reasons for this; for example, impurities or a low eurycomanone content.

Lifestyle Factors

Lifestyle factors such as age, weight, and health can also have an impact. For example, Tongkat Ali should not be consumed in combination with other medicines without the approval of a medical professional. 

Some people who have diseases such as COVID-19, cancer, or have undergone major surgery within the last 365 days are advised not to consume Tongkat Ali. 

Additionally, the total body weight (TBW) or body mass index (BMI) may require a specific dosage to achieve their health goals.

Some people may experience quicker results, especially if they take the recommended dosage of 200 mg to 400 mg of pure Tongkat Ali extract every day. It’s also suggested that older men may require daily supplementation of 400 mg of Tongkat Ali to obtain the noticeable benefits. Pairing Tongkat Ali with regular exercise, particularly weight training, may also result in faster results, with noticeable effects on energy occurring in as little as 72 hours.

How Does Tongkat Ali Work?

It works by increasing key neurotransmitters in the brain. These neurotransmitters control various aspects of our physical and mental performance. Common neurotransmitters include acetylcholine, norepinephrine, dopamine, serotonin, and histamine, which have different benefits for the mind and body. Tongkat Ali is known to stimulate the production of testosterone and dopamine: 

  • Dopamine is a type of clinical messenger in the brain and plays a crucial role in various body functions such as pleasure, mood, motivation, attention, memory, and movement. Dopamine is involved in the brain’s reward system, providing feelings of pleasure and reinforcing motivation while also being associated with numerous movements such as heart rate, blood vessel function, sleep, lactation, and more. Imbalances in dopamine levels are linked to conditions as diverse as mental illness, obesity, Parkinson’s Disease, and addiction. 
  • Testosterone is an androgen hormone most commonly associated with sex drive in men and plays a vital role in sperm production, but can also affect bone and muscle mass, how men store fat within their body, and the production of red blood cells. Testosterone is associated with various aspects of health and well-being such as the growth of body hair and imbalances can affect both physical and mental health leading to symptoms such as decreased sex drive, low energy, mood changes, and reduced bone density. It’s also important for female health and is produced in the ovaries, which can contribute to ovarian function, sexual behavior, and bone health. 

As Tongkat Ali stimulates both of these areas, Tongkat Ali can enhance general well-being, increase sexual desire, and improve energy levels.

The primary active ingredient of Tongkat Ali is a quassinoid compound known as eurycomanone, which is a class of chemical compounds known for various biological activities. Researchers suggested that eurycomanone is believed to increase testosterone levels by allowing testosterone to be released from Sex Hormone Binding Globulin (SHBG), a protein produced by the liver that binds to three sex hormones found in males and females: testosterone, estrogen, and dihydrotestosterone (DHT). 

As testosterone bound to SHBG is not available for use, Tongkat Ali can work as it was intended, providing various testosterone benefits to the body and brain, such as increased muscle mass, bone density, and more body hair.

The Immediate Effects of Tongkat Ali

Users of Tongkat Ali have reported feeling an immediate boost in their energy levels, sometimes in as little as a few hours of taking it.

The Long-Term Effects of Tongkat Ali

Long-term benefits have reported noticeable improvements in various aspects of their lives, including erection quality, muscle tone, and sex drive, likely due to the increased levels of testosterone.

How Does Tongkat Ali Compare to Other Supplements That Provide Similar Benefits?

It is important to understand that while Tongkat Ali provides very specific benefits, there is an increase in people purchasing supplements to benefit their lives. Popular podcasts such as the Huberman Lab are focusing on supplements, and as a result, the “Huberman Effect” is driving many people to take certain supplements to benefit their lives, which may not be necessary. 

Spoon aligned with various forms of Tongkat Ali supplements for easy comparison.

Many people take Tongkat Ali in combination with other supplements, such as:

  • Maca root, a plant that grows in the Andes mountains used for potential health benefits as diverse as increasing fertility, improving energy, helping with mood, and increasing libido.
  • Fadogia Agrestis, a shrub native to Nigeria, used as an aphrodisiac and to treat directorial dysfunction, with some claims Tongkat Ali can increase testosterone levels.
  • Ashwagandha, also known as winter cherry or Indian ginseng, is a popular herb in Ayurvedic medicine and is traditionally used as an adaptogen to help the body resist physical and mental stress, reduce anxiety, improve sleep, and enhance athletic performance.
  • Turkesterone, a new herbal supplement suggested to be a promising anabolic stimulant promoted for its potential benefits in muscle gains and athletic performance.

It’s essential to remember that taking any combination of supplements may have potential interactions, and therefore Tongkat Ali may not get to work as effectively as Tongkat Ali should if there are other competing supplements in the body. Always seek the advice of a medical professional, especially if taking any medication that may interact with it.

When Is the Best Time of Day to Take Tongkat Ali to Experience the Benefits?

The best time to take Tongkat Ali to experience the benefits is in the early morning. Tongkat Ali is recommended to consume Tongkat Ali after morning meals or after dinner, depending on what you are using Tongkat Ali for. For example, if you are using Tongkat Ali to benefit your exercise regime, you should consume Tongkat Ali 20 to 30 minutes before working out to boost stamina. 

The recommended daily dosage taken for between two weeks and six weeks appears to achieve the desired effect, with people seeing the results within two to four weeks of taking the supplement. While there are many situations where Tongkat Ali will deliver the most benefits, you should use Tongkat Ali when you want an energy boost or performance increase depending on the task, for example, long hours at work or performing sports.

Are There Side Effects of Taking Tongkat Ali?

Potential side effects of consuming Tongkat Ali can include:

  • Gastrointestinal effects such as nausea and vomiting, which may resolve itself after a few days.
  • Restlessness and insomnia.
  • An increase in heart rate when consumed in large amounts, as Tongkat Ali can increase blood pressure and heart rate.
  • Anxiety and irritability.
  • Potential interactions with other medications, and should be taken with caution if taking medicines for conditions such as sleep apnea, blood glucose problems, heart disease, and prostate cancer.

As with any supplement, an individual response can vary because of different factors like lifestyle, overall health, genetics, and the quality of the supplement itself can influence how quickly and effectively Tongkat Ali can work for you.

How Long Before Tongkat Ali Starts to Work?

  • Effects of Tongkat Ali can vary among individuals, with an impact on energy, sex drive, and muscle tone. 
  • A quick boost reported by some can occur within hours, while other changes occur gradually over weeks. 
  • The general time frame for measurable results can be between 24 hours and 12 weeks. 
  • The recommended dosage is between 200 mg and 400 mg per day, but individual factors may require different adjustments. 
  • Quick results are possible with daily supplementation, particularly in older men and those engaging in weight training. 
  • Tongkat Ali works by increasing key neurotransmitters testosterone and dopamine. 
  • The best time to take Tongkat Ali for optimal benefits is early in the morning and is recommended after meals. 
  • Potential side effects can occur, so be sure to consult a medical professional for advice.
Adil Maqbool, Medical MD

Adil Maqbool, Medical MD

Dr. Adil is a seasoned medical writer, researcher, and physician with extensive publications in top medical journals. Holding an MBBS, BSc, and FCPS-1, he excels in medical writing and patient care. Certified as a Registered Practitioner, Medical Writer, and Peer-Reviewer, he stays current with the latest medical advancements.