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Tongkat Ali and Testosterone: What a Randomized Trial Found

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In a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial (105 men aged 50–70 with low baseline testosterone), tongkat...

In a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial (105 men aged 50–70 with low baseline testosterone), tongkat ali (Eurycoma longifolia) extract at 200 mg/day for 12 weeks was associated with a significant increase in total testosterone versus placebo. Evidence is mostly in ageing men with low testosterone, from small trials, so effects should not be assumed for other groups.

Key Findings

  • In a 12-week RCT (105 men aged 50–70 with baseline total testosterone below 300 ng/dL), tongkat ali extract 200 mg/day was associated with significantly increased total testosterone versus placebo.
  • The trial used a standardized water-soluble root extract and reported the supplement was well tolerated.
  • A separate meta-analysis of clinical trials also found Eurycoma longifolia was associated with higher serum total testosterone in men.
  • Most evidence is in ageing men with low baseline testosterone and comes from relatively small, short trials, so it should not be generalized to younger men or those with normal levels.

Study Details

Effect of Eurycoma longifolia standardised aqueous root extract-Physta on testosterone levels and quality of life in ageing male subjects: a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled multicentre study
Chinnappan SM, George A, Pandey P, Narke G, Choudhary YK — Food & Nutrition Research (2021)
Tongkat ali extract 200 mg/day for 12 weeks was associated with significantly increased total testosterone vs placebo in ageing men with low baseline levels.
105 participantsModerate

Practical Takeaway

Tongkat ali (Eurycoma longifolia) has been studied for supporting testosterone in ageing men with low baseline levels, where a 200 mg/day standardized extract over 12 weeks was associated with higher total testosterone. The evidence base is small and focused on that specific population, so benefits should not be assumed for younger men or those with normal testosterone. Because testosterone and hormones are medically significant, anyone with a hormone-sensitive condition, or who suspects low testosterone, should be evaluated and advised by a clinician rather than self-treating. This is supportive information, not medical advice.

Summary

A randomized controlled trial found tongkat ali (Eurycoma longifolia) was associated with increased testosterone in ageing men with low baseline levels.

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Muscle RecoveryStressErectile DysfunctionLow LibidoLow Testosterone

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Frequently Asked Questions

Does tongkat ali raise testosterone?

In a randomized controlled trial of ageing men with low baseline testosterone, tongkat ali 200 mg/day for 12 weeks was associated with a significant increase in total testosterone, and a meta-analysis reported a similar direction of effect. The evidence is strongest for ageing men with low levels, not the general population.

What dose of tongkat ali was studied?

The trial used a standardized water-soluble root extract at 200 mg/day for 12 weeks. Because product standardization varies and hormones are involved, discuss any use with a clinician rather than self-dosing.

Is tongkat ali safe?

It was reported as well tolerated in the trial, but studies are small and short, and long-term safety is not well established. Anyone with a hormone-sensitive condition, or taking medications, should consult a clinician before use.

Should I use tongkat ali if I think I have low testosterone?

Suspected low testosterone should be evaluated by a clinician, since it can have medical causes that need proper assessment. Tongkat ali is a supportive option studied in that population, not a substitute for medical evaluation and care.

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Supplement Guide

Tongkat Ali

Bottom line: Tongkat ali has been studied for testosterone support in stressed or older men. Use LJ100 extract at 200-400mg daily; benefits are smaller in healthy young men.

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References

  1. Chinnappan SM, George A, Pandey P, Narke G, Choudhary YK (2021). Effect of Eurycoma longifolia standardised aqueous root extract-Physta on testosterone levels and quality of life in ageing male subjects: a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled multicentre study. Food & Nutrition Research. DOI PubMed
  2. Leisegang K, Finelli R, Sikka SC, Panner Selvam MK (2022). Eurycoma longifolia (Jack) Improves Serum Total Testosterone in Men: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Clinical Trials. Medicina (Kaunas). DOI PubMed