Evidence Level
Tongkat Ali, also known as Eurycoma longifolia, has been extensively studied for its potential benefits in hormonal health and stress management. A randomized controlled trial by Talbott et al. (2013) demonstrated that 200mg of Tongkat Ali extract significantly improved the testosterone-cortisol ratio, reduced cortisol levels, and enhanced mood state in 63 moderately stressed adults. Furthermore, Ismail et al. (2012) conducted a landmark study on male fertility, showing that 200mg daily of a standardized water extract improved sperm parameters in 75 men with idiopathic infertility, resulting in 11 spontaneous pregnancies over a 9-month period.
The LJ100 extract, standardized to 22% eurypeptides and 40% glycosaponins, is the most clinically validated form of Tongkat Ali. Henkel et al. (2014) reviewed its clinical pharmacology, confirming its adaptogenic and ergogenic properties while emphasizing the importance of extract standardization for consistent results.
Recent studies have further supported Tongkat Ali's efficacy. A systematic review by Leisegang et al. (2022) found that Eurycoma longifolia supplementation significantly increased total testosterone levels in men, with a standardized mean difference of 1.352 (p = 0.001). Additionally, Ulbricht et al. (2013) provided an evidence-based systematic review by the Natural Standard Research Collaboration, evaluating its safety and efficacy based on clinical trials and expert opinions.
Tongkat Ali has also shown potential in other areas. A study by Muniandy et al. (2025) found that Physta® 100 mg significantly improved menopausal quality of life by reducing MENQOL scores by 33.9% over 12 weeks without adverse effects. However, a systematic review by Kotirum et al. (2015) found no significant improvement in erectile function overall, though subgroup analysis suggested benefits for those with lower baseline scores.
Overall, Tongkat Ali appears to offer promising benefits for hormonal health and stress management, particularly when standardized extracts are used.