Skip to main content
SupplementScience

Benefits of Tongkat Ali

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement. Full disclaimer

Evidence-Based Benefits

  • Testosterone support — Talbott et al. (2013, n=63) found 200mg/day tongkat ali significantly improved testosterone levels (+37%) and cortisol (-16%) in moderately stressed adults over 4 weeks
  • Stress reduction — the same study (Talbott et al., 2013) showed significant reductions in tension (-11%), anger (-12%), and confusion (-15%) mood state profiles
  • Male sexual health — Ismail et al. (2012, n=109) demonstrated 300mg/day tongkat ali improved erectile function, libido, and semen parameters in men with late-onset hypogonadism
  • Body composition — Hamzah & Yusof (2003) showed tongkat ali supplementation improved lean body mass and strength in a pilot study of resistance-trained men
  • Male fertility — Tambi et al. (2012, n=350) reported that 200mg/day for 9 months improved sperm concentration, motility, and morphology, with 14.7% spontaneous pregnancy rate in infertile couples

What the Research Says

Tongkat ali has a growing body of clinical evidence, particularly from Malaysian research groups. Talbott et al. (2013) published one of the most cited studies, demonstrating significant testosterone increases and cortisol reductions in moderately stressed adults. Ismail et al. (2012) showed benefits for late-onset hypogonadism. Tambi et al. (2012) provided the largest fertility dataset (n=350) with notable pregnancy rate improvements. However, many studies have been industry-funded and used the patented Physta extract. Independent replication with diverse populations is needed. A 2022 systematic review (Thu et al.) concluded there is "promising but not conclusive" evidence for testosterone and male fertility benefits.

Related Conditions

TestosteroneStressFertility
Full Tongkat Ali Guide

References

  1. (). Effect of Tongkat Ali on stress hormones and psychological mood state in moderately stressed subjects. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition. DOI
  2. (). Randomized clinical trial on the use of PHYSTA freeze-dried water extract of Eurycoma longifolia for the improvement of quality of life and sexual well-being in men. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine. DOI
  3. (). Standardised water-soluble extract of Eurycoma longifolia, Tongkat ali, as testosterone booster for managing men with late-onset hypogonadism. Andrologia. DOI