Tongkat Ali – The Ultimate Guide!
Tongkat Ali – The Ultimate Guide!
Eurycoma longifolia, also known as Tongkat Ali and long jack, is a flowering plant native to Malaysia and Indonesia, but it is also found in some regions of India, Laos, Vietnam, and Thailand. This herb is, basically, a medium sized shrub that reaches up to 10 meters in height. The plant plays an important role in traditional medicine of different cultures. Thanks to its amazing potential, uses of this plant are numerous.
Some benefits of this herb are very well known, but others are not. The root, flower, and fruits exhibit various medicinal effects. This post focuses on the amazing herb Eurycoma Longifolia and its incredible health benefits!
Tongkat Ali And Testosterone Enhancement
Testosterone is a primary male hormone, but women also have it in lesser amounts. Even though the hormone has been present as mankind itself, for centuries and centuries, the term was coined in 1935. At that time, Ernst Laqueur isolated this hormone from bull testes.
This androgen hormone is produced primarily by your testicles in the Leydig cells. Testosterone serves a number of functions in your body, and some of them include the production of sperm, sex drive, bone mass, fat distribution, red blood cell production, muscle size and strength, and many other purposes. Basically, sufficient levels of this hormone are vital for your health and wellbeing.
Like other hormones in your body, levels of testosterone fluctuate, i.e., they go up and down because they are influenced by various factors including your lifestyle. Hormonal imbalances, especially when left unmanaged, induce a wide range of symptoms that affect your quality of life. Fortunately, it’s possible to give your testosterone a boost in an entirely natural manner. Tongkat Ali proves to be an effective solution for higher testosterone production.
Although science still needs to catch up with traditional medicine, numerous studies have confirmed that Eurycoma Longifolia can, indeed, support your natural production of testosterone. For example, a study from the journal Phytotherapy Research found that supplementation with this powerful plant increased testosterone levels and muscle strength in subjects of both genders.
The 5-week study enrolled 13 male and 12 female subjects who each received 400mg of Tongkat Ali per day [1]. Not only does this herb promotes the production of testosterone, but thanks to its impact on the muscular strength it can help you to improve your athletic performance and your prowess between the sheets. As a result, you get to cement your alpha male status.
A strong body and the ability to perform in bed are a massive source of confidence for any male. Besides these flattering benefits of Tongkat Ali, it’s important to mention the plant’s testosterone boosting effects are safe and induce no side effects.
What makes this plant so beneficial for your testosterone levels? It would be impossible to pinpoint a specific reason as the underlying mechanisms of action are still not fully known. Tongkat Ali contains active compounds called quassinoids which are responsible for a vast majority of its health benefits. A growing body of evidence confirms that Eurycoma exhibits antioxidant effects.
Antioxidants are compounds that neutralize free radicals and minimize the risk of oxidative stress and the damage it would cause. This is particularly important if we bear in mind that oxidative stress is a major contributor to decreasing testosterone levels [2]. Oxidative stress is not only harmful to your testosterone, but skin, heart, and immune system.
Some men take their testosterone levels for granted and aren’t really proactive in balancing this hormone. Instead of waiting for the problem to occur in order to take action, you can start now. Supplementation with Tongkat Ali will not only support your natural production of testosterone, but it will also help you to improve your sexual and reproductive health. As a primary male sex hormone, testosterone plays a role in different aspects of your life.
Tongkat Ali For ED
Most men deal with Erectile Dysfunction at one point or another. This common problem occurs when a man is unable to achieve or maintain an erection long and strong enough for pleasurable sexual intercourse. Not only do you find it difficult to get an erection, but it’s not as hard as you’d want it to be. When these problems occur, men are fast to blame themselves thinking their friends probably don’t have to deal with it.
Millions of men experience erection problems and overcome it thanks to a proactive attitude. You can still get a super hard erection without having to take pills which induce a wide range of side effects. For centuries, men used plants to improve their sexual prowess and erectile function. One of these plants is Tongkat Ali. Despite the fact numerous studies have inspected the health potential of Eurycoma Longifolia, evidence about its influence on erectile function is limited. But, it is not nonexistent.
The Complementary Therapies in Medicine journal published a study whose primary objective was to determine the efficacy of this plant on erectile function improvement. After analyzing data from 139 subjects, scientists concluded that herbal extract of Tongkat Ali could have a clinical effect on erectile function [3].
Although more studies on this subject are necessary, it is evident that this herb uses multiple mechanisms to improve the quality and strength of your erections. First, it supports your natural production of testosterone, a hormone that is vital for your sexual and reproductive health. At the same time, quassinoids and other active compounds found in the plant exhibit antioxidant effects. One of many “consequences” of oxidative stress is Erectile Difficulties, studies show [4]. In addition to combating oxidative stress, Tongkat Ali has a tremendous potential to fight inflammation. Again, quassinoids are responsible for that effect.
While inflammation is a natural response in your body to bacteria, viruses, and other invaders, when it remains persistent long term it could contribute to diseases and autoimmune conditions. What many men don’t realize is that inflammation can contribute to penile problems, especially if you also happen to have diabetes [5]. Through the anti-inflammatory effects of quassinoids, Tongkat Ali allows you to have stronger and harder erections.
Supplementation with this versatile plant enhances your muscular strength, i.e., it helps you improve your endurance. That means you’ll be able to do more in your bed and at the gym. With regular exercise and regular consumption of Tongkat Ali, you could improve your blood flow which is vital for good strong erections. In fact, the most common cause of erectile troubles is inadequate blood flow to the genital area. Since your penis needs blood to get engorged, now it’s easy to realize why it doesn’t happen.
Let’s not forget that Eurycoma Longifolia has anti-stress and anti-anxiety effects that calm your mind and thus allow you to focus on sexual intercourse. Sometimes, the greatest enemy of strong, powerful erections is your stressed out mind that makes you too overwhelmed to maintain your erection. We can expect more studies about Tongkat Ali and its impact on the quality of erections in the future.
Tongkat Ali For Premature Ejaculation
Your ejaculation is, basically, a reflex action controlled by your central nervous system. An ejaculation is triggered when sexual intercourse reaches a certain level of excitement, and we can divide it into two phases. The first phase of ejaculation is when the vas deferens contracts in order to squeeze the sperm in the direction of the base of the penis. At the same time, seminal vesicles make semen, and when this occurs, it’s really not possible to stop the ejaculatory process.
The second phase is, as you can already imagine when muscles located at the base of your penis contract and semen is forced out. It’s not uncommon for men to ejaculate way too early. Generally speaking, Premature Ejaculation occurs when a man ejaculates immediately after penetration or within a minute after you penetrate.
In fact, early ejaculation is the most common sexual problem affecting men younger than 40 years old. Evidence shows that 30% to 70% men in the United States experience premature ejaculation at one point or another [6]. The exact cause of early endings is unknown, but both psychological and physiological factors play a role. Factors that contribute to early endings include stress, erectile dysfunction, depression, negative body image, relationship problems, and many others.
While early ejaculations can be frustrating for you and your significant other, there’s a lot you can do about it and supplementation with Tongkat Ali could be an effective, yet natural way to last longer in bed.
How could this plant help you prolong intercourse and eliminate the problem with an early ejaculation? While this particular benefit of Tongkat Ali isn’t researched enough, we can identify multiple mechanisms. One mechanism of action is through an increased muscular endurance [7]. Let’s be honest, and if your stamina or endurance isn’t at an optimal level, then it’s difficult to have longer intercourse. As a result, you’re bound to ejaculate too early.
Tongkat Ali has the tremendous potential to support your production of testosterone, as discussed above. This is yet another mechanism that Eurycoma Longifolia uses to help manage early endings. You see, testosterone plays a facilitatory role in the control of ejaculatory reflex [8]. Decreased levels of this much needed hormone weaken your ejaculatory control and make you ejaculate faster than you’d like to.
This particular plant also exhibits positive effects on your psychological health. Supplementation with Tongkat Ali successfully alleviates stress, anxiety, and other common problems that affect your mental and emotional health. Psychological factors play a role in ejaculatory process meaning this is yet another mechanism of this herbs action. Due to the fact that the plant could address stress and other problems, it is capable of managing early ejaculations caused by these factors.
If you have early ejaculation due to work related stress, anxiety, depression, or some other reasons that make you stressed out, Tongkat Ali could help you to overcome it.
Although it may seem there is nothing you can do about your premature ending, there are plenty of options. Tongkat Ali delivers important effects, mainly hormonal balance, that benefit your ejaculatory control and help you to address early ejaculation in a very natural way. It’s needless to mention this is a discrete way to manage your early endings. Most men who struggle with ejaculatory issues are too shy to seek help.
Tongkat Ali For Fertility
Troubles with fertility have become a prevalent problem nowadays as an increasing number of married couples are struggling to conceive. Infertility is medically defined as the complete inability to conceive a child despite having regular, unprotected sexual intercourse for a minimum time period of 12 months or one whole year. Both men and women can struggle with and suffer from infertility issues.
Causes of infertility in women are numerous such as uterine or cervical abnormalities, the fallopian tube being damaged or blocked, ovulation disorders, pelvic adhesions, endometriosis, and primary ovary insufficiency. On the other hand, men tend to struggle with infertility due to abnormal sperm function or production, problems with delivery of sperm, damage caused by cancer and the treatment of the cancer, and overexposure to environmental factors such as chemicals, pesticides, and others.
Both men and women are more likely to develop fertility struggles if they are physically inactive, smokers, overweight or obese, underweight, and heavy alcohol drinkers. Difficulty conceiving can put a major strain on a relationship. It is incredibly stressful for men and women to try new methods to boost fertility only to find them ineffective.
If you’re looking for a natural way to boost your fertility, then you may want to consider Tongkat Ali. This is not some silly claim, but a scientifically proven fact. Plus, one of the most important traditional uses of this plant was to aid infertility management among men who lived in areas of Malaysia, Indonesia, and other countries in the South East of Asia.
A study from the Journal of Ethnopharmacology investigated the effects of Tongkat Ali and its chemical constituents on male fertility. Findings revealed that supplementation with 25mg/kg of Eurycoma Longifolia extract increased sperm concentration more effectively than a placebo. This powerful plant also increased the number of spermatocytes and round spermatids in stage VII of the spermatogenesis cycle.
The spermatozoa production and concentration of Leydig cells elevated, as well. In addition, scientists found that supplementation with Tongkat Ali extract increased the levels of testosterone in testicles. Tongkat Ali extract and its major quassinoids, particularly eurycomanone, improved spermatogenesis and fertility by acting on hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis [9], scientists concluded.
It’s very important that this study confirmed testosterone boosting effects of this plant because sufficient levels of this hormone are vital for optimal sperm production. In order for the testicles to make sperm, it needs adequate testosterone levels, and if the concentration of the hormone has started to drop, then it would be difficult to improve fertility. Supplementation with Tongkat Ali helps avoid that problem. Thanks to testosterone balance, your testicles can make sperm and improve your fertility. This only shows that Eurycoma Longifolia (Tongkat Ali) improves sexual and reproductive health in more ways than one.
A 12-week study of 109 men carried out by a team of scientists from Malaysia discovered that supplementation with this wonderful plant significantly improved sperm motility and semen volume compared to a placebo. Men, aged 30 to 55, also had a better erectile function, libido, and they also experienced an increase in fat loss [10]. This means that Tongkat Ali could help you to slim down and thereby improve your fertility. It’s needless to mention this increases the likelihood of conception for couples who struggle to achieve their dream of becoming parents.
Tongkat Ali For Libido
Libido or sexual desire refers to a person’s appetite for sexual activity. Sigmund Freud described libido as the energy of those instincts that may be comprised under the word love. According to Freud, who is considered the most important person in the analysis of libido and its secrets, a person’s sex drive is the instinct energy or force found in id, an unconscious part of human psyche. For centuries, scholars, philosophers, and scientists tried to understand libido and how it works. Although we’re living in the 21st century, there’s a lot yet to be discovered as psychologists and scientists believe libido is more than the feeling of “horniness” that makes you want to have sex.
Men and women have a libido, and it plays a major role in our sexual and reproductive health. Your sex drive doesn’t remain constant. Instead, it goes up and down, i.e., fluctuates. Low libido can be a major problem, especially when you’re in a relationship because your sex life suffers.
Men are reluctant to discuss their sexual problems with their significant other, and it only makes things worse. A weakened libido can occur due to a wide range of causes including low testosterone, medications, unhealthy lifestyle, depression, chronic illnesses, ageing, stress, sleep deprivation, among others.
There is no need to wait for your libido to increase on its own when there’s a lot you can do to improve it. If you, like most other men, want to have a more intense sex drive in a natural manner, then you’ll definitely like Tongkat Ali. It belongs to the group of powerful natural aphrodisiacs. Evidence confirms that supplementation with Tongkat Ali decreases the hesitation time and shows favourable effects for aphrodisiac purposes [11].
For example, in one study scientists found that supplementation with Tongkat Ali extract demonstrated a significant spike in sexual activity and mounting frequency on female rats. In other words, the use of this plant increased libido and sexual motivation in adult male rats, and they opted to have intercourse with females more often [12].
We can easily conclude that Tongkat Ali intensifies a person’s libido by improving testosterone levels. Hormonal balance is required for a strong, intense sex drive. A useful thing to mention is that the use of Tongkat Ali for a boost in sex drive is safe, well tolerated, and doesn’t cause side effects.
Men who use Tongkat Ali supplements report a higher sex drive, improved sex life in general, as well as a better ejaculatory control and stronger erections. Of course, in order to get the best out of supplementation with Tongkat Ali, you need to pay attention to the quality of the product.
Speaking of libido boosting effects of this plant, it is important to mention that this herb can help women as well. Similarly to men, female libido also needs testosterone. Since it supports the body’s natural production of this hormone, it can allow women to intensify their libido too. This means that both you and your wife or girlfriend can experience some pleasurable effects from regular intake of Tongkat Ali supplement.
Tongkat Ali For Low Testosterone
Testosterone is an important hormone for a man’s sexual and reproductive health. As seen above in this post, most of the benefits of Tongkat Ali come down to its potential to raise your testosterone levels. Hormones don’t remain constant, they fluctuate, and testosterone is not an exception. Sometimes your testosterone experiences a drop but its production increases quite fast, but in other instances, men have a more complicated problem. After all, testosterone production reduces by 1% each year after you turn 30.
As a man gets older, the risk of suffering from low testosterone increases. Low testosterone is defined as underproduction or lack of production of this hormone. Besides natural ageing process, other causes may contribute to low Testosterone such as obesity, unhealthy lifestyle, exposure to phytoestrogens and xenoestrogens, type 2 diabetes, chronic medical conditions such as kidney and liver diseases, hormonal disorders, infections, and some medications.
When levels of this hormone drop, men experience a multitude of symptoms. Sometimes the affected persons don’t even realize they’re experiencing some symptom due to low Testosterone. Signs that testosterone production has started to drop include low sex drive, erectile problems, hair loss, low semen volume, fatigue, increased body fat, loss of muscle mass, decreased bone mass, mood swings, just to name a few.
Tongkat Ali has become a popular ingredient in testosterone boosters due to its potential to provide natural support to the production of this vital hormone. For hundreds of years, the plant was used to provide much needed hormone balance for men. Even various studies confirmed the efficacy of Tongkat Ali.
For example, scientists from Malaysia inspected the effectiveness of this plant in men with late onset hypogonadism, an impaired function of the testes. They were given 200mg of Tongkat Ali extract. Subjects needed to take the supplement regularly for a month.
Results, published in the Andrologia journal, were truly impressive. You see, scientists found that supplementation with Tongkat Ali significantly improved the Ageing Males’ Symptoms (AMS) score and testosterone concentration.
Prior to the study, only 10.5% of patients didn’t report any complaint according to AMS scale, and only 35.5% had normal, healthy levels of testosterone. After the completion of the study, 71.7% subjects didn’t show any complaints according to AMS, and an impressive 90.8% had normal values of testosterone [13]. It was easy for scientists to conclude that supplementation with this herb is a useful strategy to overcome the symptoms associated with hypogonadism and low testosterone.
At this point, it’s not clear how this plant works to boost your testosterone, but there are some theories. Tongkat Ali protects your body from stress. Cortisol, stress hormone, and testosterone act in a seesaw manner [14]. Elevated cortisol decreases testosterone and vice versa. So, if you are under stress your cortisol rises, and testosterone drops. At the same time, this wonderful plant fights oxidative stress and inflammation both of which are harmful to your testosterone. Yet another mechanism of Tongkat Ali’s action is to exhibit anti-estrogenic effects [15]. Basically, it can stop testosterone from converting to estrogen in a man’s body and, thereby, help you overcome low Testosterone.
Tongkat Ali For Depression
Depression, such a common problem yet so misunderstood. It is not just a persistent feeling of sadness. Depression is a serious medical illness that negatively affects the way you feel, think and act. Numbers show that one in 15 adults or 6.7% of this population is affected by depression each year. In addition, one in six people or 16.6% struggle with depression at some point in their lives [16].
The exact cause of depression is still unknown, but similar to other mental health conditions, a combination of different factors play a role. These factors include biological differences in the brain, inherited traits, changes in function and concentration of neurotransmitters, and hormonal imbalances.
A patient who is depressed experiences a wide range of symptoms that show how complicated this disorder is. Depression exhibits both physical and psychological effects that have a negative impact on your quality of life. Some symptoms include a persistent feeling of sadness, angry outbursts, feelings of worthlessness and hopelessness, suicidal thoughts and tendencies, appetite changes, weight gain or weight loss (depending on whether a person eats too much or not enough), sleep disturbances, slowed thinking, and many others.
In addition, depression also leads to a low sex drive, difficulty achieving an erection, and dissatisfying sex life in general.
A common misconception is that there is no way out of depression. Although serious, this condition is treatable and preventable. Besides doctor recommended treatment, many people also include natural remedies like Tongkat Ali into their depression management strategy. Positive effects of Tongkat Ali on depression management are exhibited in an indirect manner.
As seen throughout this post, Eurycoma Longifolia (Tongkat Ali) aids the management of low testosterone, and it balances your levels of this vital hormone. Why is that important? Well, testosterone is not only vital for your sex life but for your overall physical and mental health. In fact, men with low testosterone have higher rates of depression [17]. Since hormonal balance is vital for treatment of depression, the testosterone boosting effects of this herb play an important role.
Depression is a complicated disorder, and there is a lot we need to find out. What scientists know for sure is that depression is not just sadness or sad feelings, it can also be a consequence of changes in your body. For example, even oxidative stress can increase your risk of developing depression.
A group of scientists from the Netherlands evaluated multiple studies on this subject. Their review, published in the Psychoneuroendocrinology journal, confirmed that patients with depression exhibit increased oxidative stress [18].
The study also confirms the hypothesis that increased metabolic stress present in depression can also contribute to the higher risk of somatic morbidity and mortality in sufferers. This is where Tongkat Ali steps in! Active compounds found in this plant have amazing antioxidant effects. Their potential to neutralize free radicals and protect you from damage caused by them can also allow you to manage depression more effectively. Plus, muscular strength and better endurance resulting from Tongkat Ali supplementation allow you to get more out of your exercise which is an important aspect of depression management.
Tongkat Ali For Diabetes
Diabetes is a chronic condition that affects the way your body uses glucose or blood sugar. Glucose is crucial for your health mainly because it provides energy to cells that make up the tissues in your body. In addition, blood sugar is also a fuel for your brain. People with diabetes experience insulin resistance. Insulin, a hormone produced by the pancreas, regulates your blood glucose.
The insufficient production or lack of insulin can’t regulate blood glucose, and it increases to levels that aren’t considered normal or healthy. Of course, insulin resistance and high glucose levels pose a major threat to your health which is why diabetes is often considered a silent killer.
Everyone can get diabetes, but some people are at a higher risk than others. Risk factors that increase your likelihood of developing this condition include family history, overweight and obesity, physical inactivity, advancing age, polycystic ovary syndrome, high blood pressure, abnormal cholesterol, and triglyceride levels, just to name a few.
Diabetes has no cure. There is no pill or therapy that can magically eliminate the condition. However, you can keep it under control. In addition to doctor recommended treatment, you can also consider some natural approaches toward better management of diabetes. Various plants are known to help diabetic individuals, and Tongkat Ali is one of them.
Although addressing diabetes is not one of the most popular or well known uses of Tongkat Ali, it is still important especially for diabetic men who use the plant to not only increase sexual performance but for this purpose as well. In one study, blood glucose levels decreased after the use of Tongkat Ali extract treatment of 150mg/kg body weight. Basically, two extracts were used. One extract decreased blood glucose by 38% and the other by 47% [19].
A different study found that Tongkat Ali root extract increased insulin sensitivity by enhancing glucose uptake by more than 200% at 50μg/ml and it also suppressed accumulation of lipids (fats) [20].
As you can see, although we don’t really associate Tongkat Ali with anti-diabetic effects they are evident. The plant could play a role in diabetes management due to its powerful anti-inflammatory effects, too. Inflammation is a factor for the onset of many health conditions, and diabetes is not an exception. What’s more, two conditions are more connected than previously thought.
In people with type 2 diabetes, insulin resistance may impair its impact on the function of tissues in your body. The effects of insulin on tissue are influenced by various factors including overweight and obesity. So, when your body has little to no insulin, a domino effect occurs involving more weight gain and a greater accumulation of fat cells which can start inflammation.
In people with type 2 diabetes, inflammatory cytokine levels are elevated inside fat tissue. That is why anti-inflammatory diet is recommended for diabetic individuals. Plus, anti-inflammatory effects of Tongkat Ali could be a valuable addition to diabetes management and better glucose control. Remember, Tongkat Ali doesn’t treat diabetes, and it can just make it easier for you to manage it.
Tongkat Ali For Energy
Your body can’t function properly without energy. In fact, energy fuels the internal functions of your body, it repairs, builds and maintains cells and tissues, and it allows you to perform daily activities including exercise.
Without energy, it would be difficult to do anything. You need it for a faster metabolism, body composition, digestion, absorption, and you name it. Although absolutely vital for our lives, energy levels go up and down. Sometimes you feel like there is no energy left in your body to get up and do anything.
What causes low energy? It turns out multiple factors play a role including low testosterone, thyroid problems, depression, sleep deprivation, iron deficiency, some chronic diseases. An unhealthy diet can also affect your energy levels. Some foods have little to no nutritional value, and they can’t supply your body with the energy it can use for its functions.
The same way multiple factors deplete energy and make you feel tired all the time, there are numerous options to fight this problem. With a healthy lifestyle, it’s entirely possible to boost your energy levels, get more out of your workout, and speed up your metabolic rate. You’ve probably seen men and women taking supplements for energy, and Tongkat Ali is a common ingredient in those products.
So, how does Tongkat Ali boost your energy levels? The plant increases your energy by supporting your natural production of testosterone. As mentioned above in this post, supplementation with this herb has been documented to increase both testosterone levels and muscular strength in both men and women. Since low testosterone depletes energy levels, improved production of the hormone can boost them.
At the same time, enhanced muscular strength gives you more endurance which is crucial for increasing and maintaining your energy levels. This way, supplementation with this powerful plant improves your athletic performance which is, again, necessary for an energy boost. Studies show that regular exercise plays a crucial role in reducing fatigue [21]. What’s more a study from the British Journal of Sports Medicine confirmed that regular intake of Tongkat Ali for five weeks enhanced muscle strength and size, and it also amplified their athletic performance [22]
A team of scientists from Thailand evaluated the ergogenic potential of Tongkat Ali. The term ergogenic refers to energy utilization, production, control, and efficiency. The study found that a herbal drink containing Eurycoma Longifolia (Tongkat Ali) improved endurance performance during cycling exercise.
The scientists found that the herb supports your energy production and utilization not only due to a testosterone boost, but it also shields your body from detrimental effects caused by stress, dieting, sleeplessness, and other problems. They concluded there is sufficient evidence to support the claims about the ergogenic potential of Tongkat Ali [23].
It is also important to mention that Tongkat Ali protects your body from oxidative stress which would otherwise exhibit a negative impact on your health and energy levels. Plus, this wonderful plant has an anti-inflammatory role and strengthens your immune system to minimize the risk of various health threats that would, eventually, deplete your energy.
The energy boosting benefits of Tongkat Ali go beyond good health and athletic performance, they could also help you to perform better between the sheets.
Tongkat Ali For Weight Loss
Weight gain is a common concern for millions of people around the globe. Rates of overweight and obesity are continuously on the rise and show no signs of slowing down. Excess weight is a result of a multitude of causes. In many cases, it is a combination of different factors that contribute to weight gain.
These factors include genetics, unhealthy diet, food addiction, certain medications, a lack of physical activity, misinformation about food, and hormonal imbalances. Not only do fluctuating hormones contribute to weight gain, but being overweight or obese makes you more susceptible to hormonal imbalances even if they were within normal ranges before.
Overweight or obesity is more than a larger clothes size, and it can have a major impact on your health and quality of life. Obese and overweight individuals are at a higher risk of developing arthritis, heart problems, and sexual dysfunctions, amongst other things. For many people weight loss seems like an impossible dream but it doesn’t have to be that way. With the right approach, you can slim down successfully. Combine a well balanced diet and regular exercise with additional help in the form of Tongkat Ali, and you’ll notice the difference. Tongkat Ali has become a popular ingredient in weight loss supplements because it works.
In one study, this herb decreased fat mass, waist circumference, and hip size more effectively than placebo. The 12-week study involving 109 men also found that the herb improved their sexual function, sperm motility, libido, and erectile strength [24]. Therefore, not only did scientists confirm weight loss effects of Tongkat Ali, but they also provided more evidence regarding other benefits of the plant that we have discussed in this article.
Separate research, published in the journal Andrologia, found that supplementation with Tongkat Ali successfully reduced body weight and belly fat [25]. This is particularly important if we bear in mind that abdominal fat is stubborn and difficult to lose, especially for ageing men.
Despite the fact that most of us never think of Tongkat Ali as a weight loss supplement, its positive effects on your weight are scientifically proven. The plant works mainly by balancing testosterone levels in your body. You see, as testosterone production decreases the body goes through different changes and a loss of muscle mass followed by increased fat mass, and weight gain is one of them. By balancing testosterone, Tongkat Ali allows you to gain more muscles and lose stubborn fat successfully.
Simultaneously with a testosterone boost, people who use Tongkat Ali products also have more muscular strength and energy both of which are absolutely necessary for regular exercise and fast metabolism. Accelerated metabolic rate coupled with regular, vigorous exercise allows you to drop unwanted pounds and get a ripped body. It’s needless to mention all this boosts your confidence and positively affects the quality of your sex life and erectile function.
Tongkat Ali influences your mood too. The plant aids in stress reduction and promotes psychological well being. In some cases, stress and other mental health problems contribute to overeating which eventually leads to weight gain.
Tongkat Ali For Testosterone
Testosterone has already been discussed above, but the importance of Tongkat Ali for the balance of this hormone is a broad subject. The normal range of testosterone in healthy adult men is between 250 and 1100 ng/dl. As you are getting older, production of this hormone starts to drop and induce a number of symptoms.
If you are worried about low Testosterone, it’s a good idea to consult your doctor and ask for a test that will determine your levels of this hormone in your body. A simple blood test is enough to measure your testosterone levels.
Low Testosterone is a common problem, and it’s difficult to pinpoint a certain cause. Sometimes an unhealthy lifestyle can be behind declining production of this important hormone. In other instances, hormonal imbalance occurs due to some underlying health problem.
In fact, low testosterone may also be a sign of pituitary gland problems. The pituitary gland, a pea-sized gland at the base of the brain, sends a signalling hormone to the testicles to tell them to produce testosterone. When pituitary isn’t working properly, it may not send the signals to your testicles thus decreasing your production of this hormone.
Testosterone isn’t just about a hormone that we need to have good sex, and decreased production can have a negative impact on your life. Tongkat Ali is a popular natural remedy for low Testosterone levels which explains why millions of men use it.
How does it work though? This is where things get complicated. It’s difficult to specify the exact mechanism of action primarily because the plant works through multiple pathways. For instance, supplementation with this herb promotes weight loss and aids in the management of healthy weight loss.
This is particularly important if we bear in mind that being overweight or obese can disrupt your production of testosterone. Low Testosterone and weight gain tend to go hand in hand, and one problem causes the other. Evidence shows that overweight men can boost their testosterone by losing weight [26]. Thanks to its ability to promote weight loss, Eurycoma Longifolia (Tongkat Ali) supports the adequate production of this hormone.
Supplementation with the herb decreases your cortisol levels. Cortisol is a hormone released in times of stress. We can easily consider testosterone and cortisol to be enemies to one another. When cortisol levels rise, testosterone decreases. Since Tongkat Ali lowers stress, it could most certainly give you a testosterone a boost. Tongkat Ali decreases the activity of the sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG), a glycoprotein that binds to androgens and estrogens.
Why is this important? Well, high SHBG means a lot less testosterone is available to your tissues. On the other hand, reduced activity of SHBG as a result due to the herbs efficacy ensures more testosterone is available in your blood and tissues [27].
Supplementation with Tongkat Ali stimulates DHEA, a steroid hormone that initiates biosynthesis of testosterone from its precursor. This is yet another pathway that Eurycoma Longifolia (Tongkat Ali) uses to boost the levels of testosterone in your body. Of course, successful increase in testosterone comes down to the quality of the Tongkat Ali product that you buy. To get maximum effects go for the purest options.
Tongkat Ali For Women
Men aren’t the only ones who experience hormonal imbalances accompanied by a multitude of symptoms that affect their quality of life. Women have similar problems. As women age, their body starts producing lower amounts of estrogen which can also increase the risk of many other health conditions.
Let’s not forget that women are also susceptible to weight gain and find it difficult to lose fat, particularly in the abdominal area. Although supplements such as Tongkat Ali are more popular among men, they can be of huge benefit for ladies too.
For instance, one study found that supplementation with Tongkat Ali successfully increases the levels of the luteinizing hormone (LH) [28]. The luteinizing hormone is a hormone produced by the gonadotropic cells in the pituitary gland. The primary function of this hormone, found in men and women, is to contribute to the function of the sex organs. Although the study focused on male mice, scientists theorize it could be beneficial for women too. In women, the Luteinizing Hormone stimulates the ovaries to produce estrogen, and it participates in ovulation.
Supplementation with Tongkat Ali boosts your energy levels thus helping you to get the most out of your performance in the gym. Why is this important? When you’re energetic, you’re able to exercise more and lose weight more successfully.
A growing body of evidence confirms that regular physical activity is vital for hormonal balance and weight control in women [29]. In addition to an energy boost, this herb contributes to muscular strength, and it promotes weight loss on its own. That way, this plant could make it easier for women to control their weight and thus decrease the risk of various health conditions.
Tongkat Ali benefits a womans sex life too, and it’s not just for men’s pleasure. This powerful plant exhibits a positive effect on your ladies libido, which is particularly beneficial if you bear in mind that women often suffer from a low sex drive too as they are getting older. Back in time, this plant was used to increase a woman’s sensitivity over the erogenous areas thereby enhancing the arousal and making sexual intercourse more pleasurable.
Regular supplementation with Tongkat Ali may also help women to manage or decrease the risk of diabetes. Studies show that women are at a higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes than men [30]. As you’re already aware, diabetes paves the way to cardiovascular conditions and many other health threats. By regulating glucose, Tongkat Ali is capable of protecting women from this common problem.
This incredible plant promotes a calm mind through anti-anxiety and anti-stress effects. Hormonal imbalances, hectic lifestyle, and many other factors make women more likely to deal with stress, anxiety, and depression than men. Stress-related weight gain is a common consequence of dealing with mood disorders, but Tongkat Ali could help you to solve this problem without having to use prescription drugs that induce various side effects.
Basically, it’s easy to come to a conclusion that Tongkat Ali benefits both a man and a woman. Besides good health and wellbeing, it can take your sex life to a whole new level. It’s, definitely, something couples could and should try to spice things up a little bit!
Tongkat Ali For Anxiety
All of us feel stressed out and anxious from time to time. In some people, these feelings are amplified due to unmanaged stress and anxiety. A common mistake that people repeat is waiting for stress and anxiety to go away on their own. When left unmanaged, they can cause serious problems. But, before we get to discuss the relationship between Tongkat Ali and anxiety, it is important to address this common term.
Anxiety is not a single condition, and the term refers to several disorders that cause distress and keep you from carrying on with your life normally. There are six different types of anxiety disorders such as generalized anxiety disorder (GAD), panic disorder, phobia, social anxiety disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and separation anxiety disorder.
While signs and symptoms of anxiety vary from one person to another and depend on different factors including the type of the disorder, most people experience symptoms such as dizziness, nausea, fear, panic, muscle tension, heart palpitations, dry mouth, and a shortness of breath.
The exact cause of anxiety, like in many other disorders, is unknown. Similarly to other mental health illnesses, a combination of different factors could play a role. These factors include genetics, changes in your brain, and environmental stress. Medical factors such as chronic conditions may contribute to the development of anxiety.
Although serious, anxiety disorder can be successfully managed and Tongkat Ali could be very helpful.
One study inspected the impact of Tongkat Ali on stress related factors on 63 subjects (32 men and 31 women). Participants received either a Tongkat Ali extract for four weeks or a placebo. Results showed that daily supplementation with Tongkat Ali Root Extract improved stress hormone profile and certain mood state parameters. Basically, regular intake of this herb reduced cortisol levels as well as anger, tension, and confusion [31].
A separate study confirmed that this herb could be effectively used in anxiety therapy [32]. It has been suggested that it aids in the management of different types of anxiety, not just one.
Even though it is not clear how Tongkat Ali addresses anxiety, one theory is that it works by increasing your production of testosterone. Higher testosterone levels decrease the concentration of the stress hormone cortisol. Basically, the plant calms your mind and helps you relax. In turn, it decreases the intensity of symptoms you experience. At the same time, supplementation with this plant boosts your energy and muscular strength to help you to exercise more. A growing body of evidence confirms that regular exercise aids anxiety management [33].
Let’s not forget the fact that Tongkat Ali supplementation improves your performance between the sheets. Why is this important? Well, for some men sexual dysfunctions such as weak erections are a major source of stress and anxiety. You’re afraid of disappointing yourself and your significant other. Fear consumes you and not only does your sexual prowess suffer even more, but your anxiety keeps getting worse. By helping you to do better in bed, this plant gives you the much needed confidence to overcome your anxiety, stress, and any other problem too.
Tongkat Ali For Male Enhancement
The term male enhancement refers to products whose primary function is to help men perform better in bed.
The whole idea of a male enhancement product is greatly misunderstood mainly because men expect some miraculous solutions that aren’t even possible in Hollywood movies. Some brands are partially responsible for that because they make men bold claims without proving they can actually make it happen.
The real importance of male enhancement products is to help men address common sexual dysfunctions and difficulties in a completely natural manner, without any side effects and unpleasant scenarios. A popular ingredient in supplements formulated to help men increase their sexual prowess is Tongkat Ali. Benefits of this plant for male enhancement properties are very well documented.
One study investigated the effect of Tongkat Ali on sexual performance, satisfaction, and well being in participants who desired to improve their sexual prowess. Findings revealed that supplementation with the herb significantly increased their libido and improved their sexual performance more effectively than a placebo. In addition, men reported an improved erectile function in terms of girth, strength, and hardness. It’s needless to mention that the harder the erection, the better the penetration during sexual intercourse.
Tongkat Ali is often referred to as an adaptogen, an agent that improves the way the body responds to stress and it rejuvenates the body through restoration. Regular supplementation with Tongkat Ali increases sexual interest and sexual arousal.
Additionally, Tongkat Ali supports healthy production of testosterone, and hormone men need for optimal performance between the sheets. With increased testosterone levels, this precious plant has the potential to improve your sperm count, motility, and morphology [34].
Regular use of high quality Tongkat Ali products goes beyond harder and more rigid erections, as it also improves a man’s general sexual satisfaction. In other words, you will find your sex life much more pleasurable [35].
So how could Tongkat Ali exhibit male enhancement effects? It comes down to testosterone boosting and optimization. You need this hormone for strong erections, ejaculatory control, sperm quality, and libido. By increasing your production of this vital hormone, Tongkat Ali starts a chain of reactions that result in mind blowing sexual intercourse. Everything in your body is connected, and your sexual function is not an exception.
Another important mechanism is the energy boost. More energy equals greater stamina and endurance. You don’t need endurance and muscular strength in the gym only, and you also need it between the sheets or wherever you would like to have sex. Although gym can be good for you as well! When you exercise, blood circulation improves, weight management becomes more successful, both of which are important for arousal, libido, erections, you name it!
Remember, for mind-blowing sex and a remarkable performance it is important to avoid factors that affect your sexual function. Try practising a healthy lifestyle by exercising regularly and eating a well balanced diet.
When buying Tongkat Ali, make sure the product comes from a reputable brand and always pay attention to its purity. You don’t want to waste your money on products that don’t have the necessary quality because that way it would be difficult to obtain the marvellous benefits this plant could provide.
Where To Buy Tongkat Ali?
Hundreds of brands provide Tongkat Ali, but not all of them are equally reliable. Some companies don’t really prioritize quality, but their prices would make you believe otherwise. In order to get the maximum out of the herb, you need to make smart choices when buying the products that contain it. Lost Empire Herbs is one of those brands that you can trust.
Lost Empire Herbs is a brand that focuses on the use of plants that have a special place in traditional medicine of many cultures. Their goal is to combine tradition, nature, and modern technologies to provide the purest forms of these plants for maximum efficacy.
Their Tongkat Ali products come in different forms: capsules, water soluble extract, and powder all of which come at reasonable prices and are available on their official website.
They promise that the regular intake of their Tongkat Ali could very well boost your free testosterone levels by up to 440% meaning it is one of the most powerful herbs for men on this planet. Not just that, but their formulations are so pure that more than 62% of men experience a noticeable improvements after taking their capsules or powder.
The water soluble extract is absorbed fast, and it is recommended to take it for five days followed by two days off after which you’ll repeat the cycle. The recommended intake of powder is 100mg twice a day. When it comes to capsules, it is recommended to take one capsule twice a day as well.
Tongkat Ali – My Final Thoughts!
Tongkat Ali is a powerful plant that helps both men and women. The plant has the potential to improve your sexual and reproductive health as well as to aid management of diabetes, contribute to weight loss, support treatment of depression and anxiety, and so much more.
Naturally, experiencing these benefits depends on the quality of product you buy so always go for the best and purest. Bear in mind that healthy lifestyle is important. One can’t expect Tongkat Ali to fix everything if no lifestyle modifications are being made. Tongkat Ali is a very potent and powerful herb that has been around for centuries and will continue to do so, but you also need to take care of your body and the way you live.
If you have any questions at all regarding Tongkat Ali, leave a comment below and I will most certainly reply back to you as quickly as I can.
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