Eurycoma longifolia: Malaysian Ginseng or Tongkat Ali
Eurycoma longifolia, commonly known as Malaysian ginseng or tongkat ali, is a therapeutic herb native to the Malaysian rain forests. Like many other exotic plants, tongkat ali is popular in traditional medicine. Its primary use has been to promote a healthy libido and support normal hormone levels in males.
Tongkat Ali and Testosterone
Traditionally, the root of tongkat ali has been used as an aphrodisiac and a remedy for age-related sexual disorders and symptoms of andropause. The root contains compounds that have been shown in animal studies to stimulate libido, improve semen quality, and even support muscle growth. These effects are largely attributed to increases in testosterone.
In 2012, a study involving seventy-six men, only 35% of whom had normal testosterone levels, was conducted. After one month of supplementing with tongkat ali, the number of men with normal testosterone levels increased to over 90%.
Another double-blind, placebo-controlled study found that men who consumed tongkat ali daily experienced improvements in erectile function, libido, and semen volume. Some participants even experienced fat loss.
Tongkat Ali and Male Fertility
Although not everyone who supplements with tongkat ali aims to increase their fertility, it is worth noting that tongkat ali’s hormone support benefits also promote normal sperm quality. Sperm quality, measured by volume, concentration, and motility, can impact male fertility.
In one study, seventy-five men who consumed tongkat ali daily experienced significant improvements in sperm quality, with these improvements lasting for months after the initial study. Almost 15% of the participants even reported new pregnancies.
Supplementing with Tongkat Ali
Before you start supplementing with tongkat ali, there are a few things you need to consider. First, ensure you’re purchasing the real thing. The marketplace for sexual support products has attracted questionable retailers, and many counterfeit “formulas” are available on the internet. Don’t get scammed.
Additionally, in 2006, Malaysia’s Drug Control Authority tested 100 products containing tongkat ali and found that 26% contained dangerously high levels of mercury. It is crucial to only purchase from reputable merchants who have a long-standing reputation for delivering quality products.
If you’re a middle-aged male experiencing symptoms of andropause and feel it’s time to rejuvenate your vitality, consider supplementing with tongkat ali. The research is positive and does not indicate any negative side effects. Combining herbal support with a healthy diet and regular exercise may provide a winning formula.
