Quick Info: Tongkat Ali and Ashwagandha are herbal supplements used to treat a variety of healthcare ailments, including fertility issues and low moods.
What is Tongkat Ali?
Tongkat Ali is a herbal supplement derived from the root of a Southeast Asian shrub tree. It is a common ingredient in Southeast Asian medicine, with a history that can be traced back thousands of years. Often described as a potent aphrodisiac, it is most commonly used to treat issues relating to fertility, such as low testosterone levels, erectile dysfunction, and low libido.
Tongkat Ali Key Facts.
Scientific Name: Eurycoma Longifolia
Also known as: Longjack or Malaysian Ginseng
Derived From: Eurycoma longifolia (shrub tree) roots.
Origin: South East Asia (Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos).
What is Ashwagandha?
Ashwagandha is a herbal supplement derived from the Eurycoma Longifolia tree, an evergreen shrub that grows in Africa and Asia. It is typically used as a treatment for high levels of stress or related conditions such as anxiety, though it has many other uses. Much like Tongkat Ali, its medicinal usage can be traced back for hundreds of years.
Ashwagandha Key Facts:
Scientific Name: Withania somnifera
Also known as: Indian Ginseng, Winter Cherry.
Derived From: Withania somnifera plant, part of the Solanaceae family.
Origin: Africa (Nigeria).
Can you take Tongkat Ali and Ashwagandha together?
There are many overlapping benefits found in both Tongkat Ali and Ashwagandha, which means they’re often an excellent choice for those looking to supplement stack. However, it is vital that you research each supplement carefully, take only the recommended dosages, and speak to a healthcare professional before you begin taking them.
You should also make sure that you purchase Tongkat Ali and Ashwagandha (alongside any other supplements) from reputable manufacturers or sellers.
What are the benefits of Tongkat Ali and Ashwagandha?
As mentioned above, there are many benefits associated with supplementing Tongkat Ali and Ashwagandha. Some of the supposed benefits of Tongkat Ali and Ashwagandha include:
- Stress Relief
- Improved Sexual Performance
- Improved Hormonal Balance
- General Health Improvements
Stress relief.
Both Tongkat Ali and Ashwagandha are considered adaptogens, which means they have the ability to help the body adapt to stress.
For centuries, Ashwagandha has been used as a stress-relief agent, and many studies have backed up its usage to this effect.
For example, a recent study published by the National Institute for Health invited individuals with high levels of self-reported anxiety to participate in a test. The purpose of the study was to determine the role Ashwagandha plays in stress reduction. Half of the individuals were given an Ashwagandha supplement, and the others a placebo. The study found that Ashwagandha “significantly reduced stress and anxiety levels (subjectively measured by validated rating scales), reduced sleeplessness and fatigue, and reduced serum cortisol (a stress hormone) levels, compared with placebo.”
Various studies have also found that Tongkat Ali can have a similarly positive effect on individuals dealing with high levels of stress and anxiety. This is likely because it can help to regulate the body’s production of Cortisol, the hormone primarily responsible for our body’s “fight/flight” and stress response.
Improved Sexual Performance
Both Tongkat Ali and Ashwagandha supplements are also linked to improved sexual performance. For example, many users take these supplements in order to deal with sexual health complaints, such as erectile dysfunction or low libidos. Given that over 150 million men worldwide deal with erectile dysfunction issues, these supplements can help them to enjoy a healthier, more active sex life.
Tongkat Ali is also known to help boost testosterone levels among both men and women. This, too, can increase an individual’s libido. On a similar note, the mental health benefits of Ashwagandha consumption can also have a positive effect on a person’s libido.
Improved Hormonal Balance
Both Tongkat Ali and Ashwagandha are linked to improved hormonal balance, though in slightly different ways.
Tongkat Ali, as mentioned above, is often associated with increased testosterone production, though extensive research into this topic is ongoing. Either way, a recent article published in Medicina found that “supports the possible use of E. longifolia supplementation for enhancing testosterone production.” The same study also reported that the consumption of Tongkat Ali is particularly beneficial for hypogonadal men (men with testosterone deficiency).
Ashwagandha, however, is more commonly linked with stress reduction. For example, one study found that Ashwagandha can help improve the production of “happiness” hormones, such as dopamine and serotonin. This within itself can aid hormonal and emotional regulation, leading to a wide range of healthcare benefits.
What are the potential side effects of Tongkat Ali and Ashwagandha?
No supplement is without potential side effects, though it is worth noting that the majority of people taking Ashwagandha and/or Tongkat Ali experience no negative side effects whatsoever.
Ashwagandha:
Potential side-effects from Ashwagandha include:
- Nausea
- Digestive issues
- Diarrhoea
Tongkat Ali
Potential side-effects of Tongkat Ali include:
- Insomnia/Poor sleep
- Increased heart rate
- Irritability
While they are naturally occurring herbal supplements, it is typically advised that those who are pregnant and breastfeeding do not take Tongkat Ali or Ashwagandha. Furthermore, if you are currently taking medication for a pre-existing health issue, it is advisable to speak with a healthcare practitioner beforehand to ensure that the supplements will not interfere with your current course of medicine.
Tongkat Ali & Ashwagandha: Which is better?
The answer to the question, “Tongkat Ali & Ashwagandha: Which is better?,” lies in what your desired outcome is from taking these supplements. For example, while both have been linked to a reduction in cortisol, Ashwagandha is considered the better option for those looking for a simple yet effective way to deal with stress. Conversely, Tongkat Ali is a more suitable choice for individuals looking to deal with low libido, low testosterone levels, or erectile dysfunction.
However, various studies have also found that supplements have complementary benefits. Taking them both in conjunction (stacking) means that users can enjoy a wide range of healthcare benefits for the betterment of both their physical and mental health. As a result of this, it’s often possible to buy pre-mixed supplements containing both Tongkaty Ali and Ashwagandha. They are available in capsule, powder, or liquid form – as are the individual supplements.
If you are considering this route, it’s important that you:
- Do plenty of research into both Tongat Ali and Ashwagandha, ensuring that you understand what each supplement is and how it functions.
- Purchase products from trusted realtors and manufacturers
- Speak to a healthcare professional for advice ahead of time, especially if you are on medication or dealing with a pre-existing health issue.
- Take only the recommended dose of each supplement.
- Take each supplement as advised. For example, if you opted for a capsule supplement, this should be taken with water. You should also avoid taking supplements on an empty stomach, ideally consuming them shortly after eating.
Summary:
- Tongkat Ali is a herbal supplement derived from the root of a Southeast Asian shrub tree.
- Ashwagandha is a herbal supplement derived from the Eurycoma Longifolia tree, an evergreen shrub that grows in Africa and Asia.
- Both Tongkat Ali and Ashwagandha have scientifically proven health benefits. For example, Tongkat Ali is a popular aphrodisiac and can help those dealing with a range of fertility or sexual performance issues.
- Ashwagandha is better known for its mental health benefits and has been used to treat stress and anxiety for hundreds of years.
- Tongkat Ali and Ashwagandha are available in the form of capsules, powders or liquids (teas).
- Those looking to consume Tongkat Ali and Ashwagandha supplements should do plenty of research ahead of time and consult with medical personnel for further advice or support.
