Note: Tongkat Ali is no longer sold in Norway. Under the EU Novel Food regulation the extract is not approved for sale as a supplement here. We keep this article for information. For natural testosterone support we recommend Fadogia Agrestis and our Biohack Protocol for Testosterone ebook.
As the world faces a global decline in male androgens, the search for alternative medicine and solutions for androgen deficiency is continuously intensifying. The last few decades several studies have observed a decline in average testosterone and DHEA (precursor) levels. It's important to remember that this decline is observed taking into account the natural reduction in testosterone as men age. Adequate levels of these hormones are critical for men's health, well-being and reproductive system. Scientific evidence suggests that factors like environmental toxins, poor diets, stress hormones as well as sedentary lifestyles significantly contribute to a reduction in androgens. The repercussions of low testosterone are quite impactful: decreased muscle mass, reduced libido, increased fatigue and often reduced cognitive function.
In response to these concerns, the search for alternative natural supplements has increased as potential competitors of TRT (testosterone replacement therapy). Among these natural supplements is Tongkat Ali, scientifically known as Eurycoma longifolia and often going by the name Longjack. Tongkat Ali extract is a traditional herbal remedy from Southeast Asia. It has gained recognition for its aphrodisiac properties as well as its reported ability to naturally support testosterone levels.
Famous podcaster Joe Rogan as well as Professor of neurobiology at Stanford University Andrew Huberman (check out his AI here: https://ai.hubermanlab.com) have discussed the herb's therapeutic benefits on the body. They have pointed to its antioxidative properties, fighting of free radicals as well as its reported ability to balance testosterone and cortisol levels. In this article we are going to evaluate these claims while taking relevant research into account.
Composition and Mechanism of Tongkat Ali
The composition of Eurycoma longifolia extract is a key contributor to its widely studied therapeutic properties. Tongkat Ali, being a natural supplement, contains several complex bioactive compounds. This contrasts with synthetic medicines which usually rely on a single active ingredient. These bioactive components are defined as phytochemicals (naturally occurring compounds); they may benefit the body by way of affecting various pathways. These compounds are mostly found in the roots of Tongkat Ali.
Research has found that the following are among the most prevalent compounds:
- Quassinoids
- β-carboline alkaloids
- Triterpenes
- Flavonoids
These compounds are thought to be behind Tongkat Ali's reported health benefits. They act upon several bodily systems through their influence on various molecular pathways. Research suggests that they may positively impact mood, energy levels and our natural stress resilience. Additionally, studies suggest they may support cognitive function as well as physical performance through their effects on testosterone.
Let's now take a closer look at the herb's claimed health benefits:
An Energy and Testosterone Booster
First and foremost, it is important to establish a foundation about the hormone itself and to clarify common misconceptions. Contrary to popular belief, testosterone is a crucial hormone for both men and women. The hormone is necessary for both sexes to maintain overall health, wellness and to some extent cognitive function. However, it is factual that the hormone has variable roles in each sex and therefore is required in different amounts. For men it is the primary sex hormone, which is why men in general have more testosterone. For women, the main function of testosterone is to maintain libido and sexual function.
The following are some of the primary functions of testosterone in both sexes:
- Development of the reproductive system
- Support of muscle mass and strength
- Maintenance of libido and sexual satisfaction
- Regulation of mood and energy levels
These vital bodily functions make it clear that testosterone is a crucial hormone for both sexes, supporting not only reproductive health but also overall vitality. Testosterone affects many important aspects of our body. Healthy amounts of this hormone are essential for our bodily functions. Increased libido, increased muscle mass, strength and upkeep of bone density are all associated with adequate amounts of testosterone.
Testosterone types
Testosterone exists in our body in various forms. However, we primarily divide testosterone by its biological activity level:
- Free testosterone: This is the testosterone which is not bound to any proteins in the blood; it is consequently considered the most biologically active form. Free testosterone can easily enter cells and affect our body in its various manners, increasing libido, muscle mass and affecting mood.
- Bound testosterone: When testosterone is bound it is considered inactive and cannot exert its effect on the body. This is the majority of the testosterone in the blood, and it is bound either to albumin or SHBG (sex hormone binding globulin). Testosterone bound to albumin can, in a restrictive manner, exert its effect on tissues, however it is less active than free testosterone.
Mechanism of Tongkat Ali
Tongkat Ali supplementation has been utilized for centuries in traditional medicine to support male vitality and performance. In modern times, research and studies have explored its effects on testosterone levels. There are mainly two mechanisms by which Tongkat Ali supplementation is suggested to affect testosterone levels:
- Reduction of SHBG: Research on this herbal medicinal plant suggests that the increase in testosterone levels may be associated with a decrease in SHBG (sex hormone-binding globulin). This reduction allows for more free testosterone, as less of the hormone remains bound, making a larger proportion potentially available for the body to utilize.
- Stimulation of testosterone production: The phytochemicals of Tongkat Ali have been linked with stimulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis. This system plays an essential role in regulating testosterone in the body. By stimulating this axis and consequently stimulating the release of LH (luteinizing hormone) and FSH (follicle stimulating hormone), Tongkat Ali may promote increased testosterone synthesis.
To understand more about testosterone we have compiled a 66-page ebook, the Biohack Protocol for Testosterone, that you can follow to maximise your output potential.
Adaptogenic health benefits of Tongkat Ali
Boosting energy and testosterone production are not the only benefits associated with Tongkat Ali supplementation. Eurycoma longifolia (Tongkat Ali) is actually classified as an adaptogen, similarly to Ashwagandha and Ginseng. An adaptogen is considered a natural substance which is believed to help the body resist physical and psychological stress. This aligns quite well with the reported properties of Tongkat Ali:
- Stress reduction
- Immune system support
- Antioxidative properties
- Blood sugar regulation
Major Studies on Tongkat Ali extract
Tongkat Ali, being a natural supplement, can prove challenging to study for efficacy. This is because herbal supplements in general are less widely studied, and different producers and origins of the herb itself might change its properties. With Tongkat Ali, however, there have been several larger-scale studies examining many of its claimed benefits. Many of these studies have been peer reviewed as well as being conducted in various formats such as:
- Randomized clinical trial
- Placebo group controlled
- Single and double blind
Study 1: Tongkat Ali effect on testosterone and muscle mass
This study was conducted in 2014 by Henkel, R. and set out to assess the notable claim regarding Tongkat Ali's testosterone-boosting effects. The trial was conducted as a placebo-controlled study on 13 men and 12 women. The participants were given 200mg of Tongkat Ali extract every day for 5 weeks. The study's goal was to examine:
- Free testosterone levels
- Muscle strength
- Physical performance
After 5 weeks of supplementation, on average free testosterone levels increased by approximately 37%. Both male and female participants showed increases in testosterone, however the increase was more prominent in males. Muscle strength was evaluated by various exercises, including handgrip strength tests as well as other resistance training exercises. The average increase in muscle strength was around 10-15%. Physical performance was assessed by general activity levels as well as subjective personal assessments. In general, participants reported feeling notably less fatigued as well as having more energy throughout the day. These results suggest that Tongkat Ali supplementation may be beneficial for testosterone, muscle strength and general physical performance.
Study 2: Tongkat Ali effect on stress reduction and cortisol levels
Tongkat Ali's effect on stress hormones was assessed in this randomized, placebo-controlled and double-blind study done by Talbott, S.M. in 2013. The study's aim was to assess the herbal extract's adaptogenic properties and to gather empirical data around this. The participants consisted of 32 moderately stressed men and women, with ages spanning from 21-65. They received 200mg of Tongkat Ali extract over 4 weeks. The study measured the following:
- Cortisol levels (main stress hormone)
- Mood and stress (POMS test)
- Overall wellbeing (general subjective assessment, hormonal levels)
On average the participants experienced a 16% reduction in cortisol levels, which was a significant reduction from their baselines. Cortisol is the main stress hormone, and lower levels of it are associated with reduced stress. A psychological assessment tool known as "The Profile of Mood States" (POMS) was used to map changes in mood states. The test takes into account states such as tension, anger, fatigue and confusion. Results from this test showed improvements, with a reduction of 11% in tension, 12% in anger and 15% in confusion. In terms of overall wellbeing, participants reported feeling more relaxed as well as reporting a positive influence on their mood, which aligns with the hormonal values evaluated. The results in this trial suggest a notable efficacy of Tongkat Ali as an adaptogen, indicating it may be a useful natural option for stress reduction.
Key takeaways
- Decline in testosterone: Global reductions in testosterone are tied to lifestyle factors like toxins, poor diets, stress, and inactivity.
- Natural TRT alternative: Tongkat Ali (Eurycoma longifolia), a Southeast Asian herb, is studied as a natural testosterone booster and adaptogen.
- Active compounds: Key bioactives (quassinoids, flavonoids, etc.) may help increase testosterone and support stress resilience.
-
Mechanism of action:
- Lowers SHBG: Reduces binding proteins, potentially freeing more active testosterone.
- Stimulates HPG axis: Activates pathways that may naturally support testosterone production.
- Benefits for men and women: Testosterone is relevant for muscle mass, libido, mood, energy, and bone density.
Study highlights:
- Testosterone & strength (Henkel, 2014): 37% increase in testosterone, 10-15% improvement in muscle strength, enhanced energy and reduced fatigue.
- Stress & cortisol reduction (Talbott, 2013): 16% decrease in cortisol, improved mood with less tension, anger, and confusion.
- Versatile adaptogen: Studies suggest support for stress reduction, immune health, antioxidant defense, and blood sugar regulation.
Natural testosterone support at Uniiq
- Fadogia Agrestis — a potent herbal extract for hormone balance, libido and physical performance.
- Biohack Protocol for Testosterone — a complete ebook on raising testosterone naturally through diet, sleep, training and supplements.
- Explore the full range in our Hormone Support collection.