Q: How does Andrew Huberman, Ph.D., think Tongkat Ali supplements make a difference?
A: Increased testosterone levels, improved hormonal balance, and improved health.
Who Is Andrew Huberman?
- American neuroscientist and associate professor of neurobiology and ophthalmology at Stanford University School of Medicine.
- Famous podcaster and host of the Huberman Lab podcast, which frequently ranks in the top 10 podcasts on Spotify and Apple Music.
- Over 4.75m subscribers on YouTube and over 195 videos uploaded.
- Renowned for his work in the fields of brain development, brain plasticity, and neural regeneration and repair.
- Has heavily researched testosterone and its impact on brain development, as well as sexual health, physical performance, and more.
Dr. Andrew Huberman, Ph.D., is a renowned 48-year-old American neuroscientist who is widely regarded as a leading voice in the field of testosterone studies and has become a champion of Tongkat Ali as one of the most potent natural testosterone boosters available.
He has spoken in depth about the proposed benefits of Tongkat Ali, perhaps most notably on the Joe Rogan podcast:
Video link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-KNesUXP2wU
Dr Huberman’s Supplement List
The Andrew Huberman supplements list has been a topic of hot conversation in recent years. It is a list of natural supplements that the neuroscientist has not only approved but has additionally incorporated into his daily life for improved physical and mental performance. The supplements included are as follows:
| Supplement | Purpose | Dosage |
| Alpha-GPC | Cognitive performance | 300mg (daily) |
| Apigenin | Improved sleep | 500mg (daily) |
| Ashwagandha | Stress reduction | 500mg (as required) |
| Fadogia Agrestis | Boost testosterone | 425mg-600mg (daily) |
| L-Tyrosine | Cognitive performance | 500mg (daily) |
| Magnesium L-Threonate | Improved sleep | 140mg (daily) |
| Phenylethylamine (PEA) | Cognitive performance | 500mg (daily) |
| Theanine | Improved sleep | 100mg-300mg (daily) |
| Tongkat Ali | Boost testosterone | 400mg (daily) |
Why Is Tongkat Ali So Interesting?
Tongkat Ali extracts come from the Eurycoma longifolia found in several Southeast Asian countries. It has been used in Asian cultures for centuries as a natural remedy to fevers, as well as a tonic for increased energy. However, it is most widely known as a potent aphrodisiac due to its proposed testosterone-boosting capabilities.
The plant (also referred to as Longjack or Malaysian ginseng), only made its way to the West towards the end of the 20th century. It has since become the topic of many discussions regarding its potential as a supplement.
While research is still in its infancy, some scientific studies have supported several claims regarding potential benefits for muscle growth, fat loss, sexual health, and general wellness. One clinical trial suggests that it may promote significant increases in total and free testosterone concentrations in men and women with low levels due to age or other factors.
Huberman’s Thoughts On Tongkat Ali & Testosterone Boosting
The Role Of Testosterone
Dr Huberman has conducted extensive research into the field of testosterone and its role in both male and human health. While thought of primarily as a male hormone, it is essential for women too as it supports muscle mass and strength, as well as several daily tasks and movements.
Testosterone levels tend to decline with age. In fact, the estimated loss is 1-3% annually. However, an estimated 20% of men in their 60s have a lower than expected level while a growing number of people fall below the desired levels, which should be;
- 300 to 1,000 nanograms per deciliter (ng/dL) or 10 to 35 nanomoles per liter (nmol/L) in men.
- 15 to 70 ng/dL or 0.5 to 2.4 nmol/L in women.
Dr Huberman has regularly discussed the issue, concerns about the growing troubles and the health impacts it can have. Low testosterone levels in men may cause; erectile dysfunction, reduced testicle size, reduced semen levels, mood swings, and insomnia. Women with low testosterone may also encounter amenia and irregular menstrual cycles. It can also limit lean muscle growth or increase the threat of anxiety.
It has been suggested that citizens in modern society must pay greater attention as testosterone problems are now caused by lifestyle and our surroundings, including cell phone signals.
Tongkat Ali’s Testosterone-Boosting Capabilities
Dr Huberman has regularly emphasized the importance of healthy testosterone levels for the sake of brain development as well as both physical and mental health. This is echoed by scientific studies that highlight its role in regulating “sex drive (libido), bone mass, fat distribution, muscle mass and strength, and the production of red blood cells and sperm”.
Tongkat Ali is the natural supplement that Dr Huberman has frequently suggested should be taken to help boost testosterone, even taking it himself. When talking about the proposed benefits, though, he highlights the need to choose Indonesian Tongkat Ali rather than supplements that come from plants in Malaysia and other Southeast Asian countries.
“The best way to describe testosterone’s effects is it makes effort feel good”.
Dr Huberman explains that Tongkat Ali decreases sex hormone binding globulin, which frees testosterone. This has been underlined by evidence that the supplements can yield a 582% increase in free testosterone under certain situations. For an average person with low testosterone levels, though, the expectation is 100-200 points.
Describing the prossess, he states that the testosterone hormone is typically carried in a cargo to keep it in its unbound form. However, he warns that not all testosterone reserves should remain free because the bonding globulin and albumin carry the testosterone molecule to different tissues. He says Tongkat Ali increased both free testosterone and overall testosterone by the 100-200 point mark. In turn, this allows testosterone to do its jobs ranging from improved sperm health to neural repair.
Dr Heberman also confirms the role it plays in libido for men and women, stating that Tongkat Ali can help restore the levels. He also states that many people considering testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) can often get the results that they need from choosing the herbal supplement instead – not least when in their 20s and 30s.
The neuroscientist also likens the testosterone-boosting capabilities to those seen in banned anabolic steroids and performance-enhancing drugs, stating that people may experience similar benefits in terms of testosterone levels (and the rewards it brings) but in a safe and legal way.
Integrating Tongkat Ali Into A Better Life
Dr Huberman has been vocal that supplements alone won’t transform a person’s wellness. As with any form of nutrition, it must be incorporated into a better lifestyle. Whether opting for Tongkat Ali supplements or a more traditional solution like testosterone replacement therapy (TRT), several lifestyle changes may boost the results.
One habit cited by Dr Huberman is to get sunlight in the middle of the day to boost testosterone while also balancing estrogen levels. Several studies support the notion that ultraviolet (UV) exposure, which is gained from solar radiation, increases testosterone levels in men. Other lifestyle suggestions include;
- Building healthy sleep patterns,
- Getting regular exercise,
- Learning to nose breathe,
- Avoiding stress where possible,
- Maintaining good nutrition.
Dr Huberman also states that it is important to track testosterone levels before taking Tongkat Ali to see the impact. Ideally, participants should know their historical testosterone levels and know whether low testosterone is due to lifestyle, age, or underlying conditions like hypogonadism.
Huberman’s Suggestions On Taking Tongkat Ali
- Normally consumed as a capsule/tablet.
- Typically to be used daily at a concentration of 400mg per day.
- Can be taken in a single dose or in multiple doses.
- For increased testosterone, consume the supplement before noon.
- However, it may be taken before exercise for athletic performance.
- May be taken with or without food.
The Takeaways: Andrew Huberman’s Thoughts On Tongkat Ali
- It may boost testosterone levels by 100-200 points for non-athletic performance.
- Optimal dosage of 400mg daily.
- Stresses that Tongkat Ali supplements must be supported by the right lifestyle.
