Tongkat Ali: The Natural Testosterone Booster

There’s a new supplement on the block. An aphrodisiac that can supposedly aid you in getting better results in the gym and in the bedroom. Best of all, it’s all natural too! 

Sounds too good to be true? As your trusted destination for buying high-quality supplements, we at Nutrition Warehouse wanted to help you understand this mysterious supplement, Tongkat Ali. We cut through all the forums and scientific reports to give you an honest assessment of Tongkat Ali and whether it works. 

What is Tongkat Ali?

Typically one of the biggest talking points of Tongkat Ali is its ability to improve sexual virility, but it has also been used as an exercise supplement for its supposed benefits in boosting testosterone. It has been traditionally supplemented with tea or coffee to give the supposed benefits in a more enjoyable way. Tongkat Ali has also been used as a caffeine substitute, coming from the same family of alkaloids. 

How Did Tongkat Ali Become Popular?

Last year, Tongkat Ali was searched on Google more than fellow herbs and traditional medicines, Panax Ginseng and Maa Root, but how did it get so popular? For that, we have to look at Malaysia. There has been a concerted effort by the Malaysian government to legitimise the herb through research, with over $7 million USD being invested in biotech research related to the herb since 2005. This investment has resulted in Tongkat Ali’s benefits being readily available in American and Asian scientific journals. As a result, it is easy to assume that a lot of articles could have a conflict of interest given this relation to Malaysia. There is also the economic burden that negative results could cause Malaysian exporters. However, thanks to other independent research, it is also now one of the most researched supplement ingredients on the market, rivalling that of the similarly highly researched creatine. So what are the actual benefits you can expect from using Tongkat Ali in your daily supplementation? 

How Tongkat Ali Works and What Tongkat Ali Does?

Tongkat Ali is believed to have a number of positive properties that can benefit the body in both males and females. Along with the benefits of testosterone and other elements of men's health, there are also general benefits. For one, Tongkat Ali contains high levels of Eurypeptides. These peptides can help support mental function, including areas like memory recall, cognitive function and, most notably, relieving the symptoms of stress. In a study of two groups of males and females, one group was given Tongkat Ali as a hot water extract and the other a placebo. The group given Tongkat Ali showed a decrease in tension, anger and confusion. With the help of Tongkat Ali’s Eurypeptides, there was also a reduced production of cortisol released. This shows a clear indication of Tongkat Ali’s ability to shield the body from stress. 

There are also anti-inflammatory benefits that have been found in Tongkat Ali. Eurycomalactone, beta-dihydroklaieanone and dehydroeurycomanone have been discovered in beneficial amounts, aiding in lessening joint pain, bone pain and aiding in cardiovascular health. 

There are also studies that have noted improvements in bowel movements. However, this has yet to be fully investigated. Other studies have also shown there are some potential benefits for weight loss, with more than one study noting that overweight participants experienced some weight loss while using Tongkat Ali for unrelated issues. 

How Can Tongkat Ali Help With Building Muscle?

One of the things that Tongkat Ali has become popular for is as an exercise supplement. It has become noted for the supposed benefits of boosting testosterone in a natural way, making it popular amongst men. An increase in testosterone has been used for building muscle, decreasing body fat and pushing gains to the max. Testosterone is not just useful for men, with women who have higher testosterone levels showing to have performed better in a variety of sporting activities. 

Firstly when looking at the makeup of Tongkat Ali, laboratory evidence shows the presence of Eurycoma peptides. These peptides release free testosterone from their binding proteins and improve the user's hormone profile. This makes it easier for the body to access and utilise free testosterone. Human supplementation of these peptides has shown they can also help in improving energy and heightening energy levels. In regards to the potential health effects of using Tongkat Ali as a testosterone booster, studies that have examined the liver and renal function of participants have shown no adverse effects. 

Perhaps one of the most researched areas has been studies into Tongkat Ali’s uses as a supplement for older individuals. As we get older, we produce less testosterone which can affect a host of areas in our life, resulting in fatigue, decreased gains, increased body fat and symptoms associated with ageing. In a small test group of 57 to 72-year-olds, 400mg of Tongkat Ali root was given with breakfast. The results of the study showed that their free testosterone and overall testosterone levels increased significantly. Their muscular force also showed strong improvement with the supplementation of basic physical activity. Another test of a similar age group found corroborating results for the improvement of testosterone levels with Tongkat Ali supplementation. Particularly there was a significant increase between 8 to 12 weeks of use, a point which most studies do not research too. This could show that continued use is the key to getting the most out of Tongkat Ali. This study also showed an increased overall muscle strength in comparison to a placebo group, furthering the claims of using Tongkat Ali for muscle strength. 

It’s not just studies on older people's strengths that are available too. Tongkat Ali also has evidence of being effective for younger men too. In one study, supplementation of Tongkat Ali was given over five weeks in conjunction with a workout routine. The subjects showed an increased fat-free mass, reduced body fat and increased muscle strength and size. This was done with a comparison group that did not receive the supplementation and showed a 134% deficit in strength, despite this group having a higher average strength at the start. Another study that targeted a more diverse age group found a significant release of testosterone, with the use of Tongkat Ali root after four weeks increasing testosterone levels by 37% without an exercise routine! Further studies have focused more on the exercise element of using Tongkat Ali as a supplement to build strength. They also showed a positive correlation with resistance training. Particularly, there was a noted improvement in the strength of the lower limbs. 

However, it should be noted that there are tests that have not yielded results for Tongkat Ali use as effective supplementation. One study showed that despite supplementation, there was no significant difference in performance in endurance cyclist performance compared to a placebo group  There is also the speculation that the age of subjects may affect the positive results, with younger subjects often not showing the same positive results as older individuals.

This, however, should not put you off trying Tongkat Ali as a supplement to get the most out of your workout.

Can Tongkat Ali Improve Sexual Health?

One of the big benefits that have been touted, thanks to the testosterone-boosting qualities of Tongkat Ali, is sexual health. The decrease in testosterone has been linked with issues like libido, fertility and erectile dysfunction. To deal with this, individuals usually have to use medications with undesirable side effects. Tongkat offers the benefit of natural support, without the side effects attributed to other medications, for both males and females.

Tongkat Ali has seen a lot of research into the benefits as an aphrodisiac. Original studies looked at the effect of high doses on male rats and found that they had improved sexual performance, prolonged sexual activity and an overall increase in the number of mounting and ejaculating rats. This is further supported by other studies on rats that used Tongkat Ali as an aphrodisiac.

In humans, there have been multiple positive studies looking at Tongkat Ali as a way to treat erectile dysfunction and overall sexual wellbeing. In one study, 109 men between the ages of 30 to 55 were given 300 mg of Tongkat Ali over a 12-week period. They noticed notable improvements in their erectile function, libido and overall sexual satisfaction. Another study used the same amount of Tongkat Ali and worked with an older group of men aged 40-65. They, too, found improvements in sexual satisfaction, libido and erectile function after six to twelve weeks This study also used a placebo group who didn’t experience these same benefits. Another study showed that 40% of people who had taken Tongkat Ali would now feel easily aroused, with only 8% of participants stating that their erectile problems continued to persist. 

It's not just in the elements of male sexual performance that Tongkat Ali has been shown to have a positive impact. 75 patients were given 200 mg of Tongkat Ali for nine months and showed significant improvements in the quality of their semen. This group had an average age of 33 years, and the use of Tongkat Ali resulted in 11 spontaneous pregnancies for individuals who had trouble conceiving prior. Another study looking at similar parameters saw a nearly 50% increase in sperm motility and an almost 20% increase in semen volume thanks to the supplementation of Tongkat Ali.

Where to Buy Tongkat Ali in Australia:

If you have been searching where to buy Tongkat Ali in Australia, you may have seen a multitude of results offering it in the form of pills and drinks. Included in these results will be online stores and third parties promising big results. However, we recommend you get your supplements from a reputable Australian dealer, especially when it comes to Tongkat Ali. This is because a number of these products have been found to have high levels of mercury. In a study of 100 Tongkat Ali products, it was found that 26 exceeded the amount of mercury allowed to be sold in herbal supplements in Malaysia. There is also the fact that when you are buying from a trusted supplier, you are getting an open-label approach to the Tongkat Ali you are buying. This ensures that you are getting guaranteed quality and consistency every time.

So which Tongkat Ali is the best? Depending on your needs, this answer can vary based on your needs.

When it comes to buying Tongkat Ali, a lot of users are often looking to gain the benefits it provides as a male tonic. As highlighted prior, the right amount of Tongkat Ali can aid both male general health and sexual health. For the positive impact of Tongkat Ali in a pure formula free from other vitamins and minerals, try Tongkat Ali by Evolution Botanicals or Tongkat by Switch Nutrition. If you are looking for a formula completely free from flavourings and natural sweeteners, the Tongkat Ali by Evolution Botanicals offers a standardised 25:1 extract with none of those added elements. If you are looking for a powder that may be more palatable, Tongkat by Switch Nutrition does offer flavouring and stevia for easier incorporation into your favourite smoothie or green drink. Whether you are looking to restore a bit of balance to your system before a big morning or an even bigger workout, you’ll get the best of Tongkat Ali and the best out of your day.

If you are taking Tongkat Ali for its overall health and wellness benefits in conjunction with your fitness goals, then you should use Alpha Switch (Powder) by Switch Nutrition. This supplement offers herbal supplementation in the form of a daily supplement that aids in all areas of life, including during regular daily exercise. Alpha Switch (Powder) by Switch Nutrition combines the power of Tongkat Ali and supplements it with other vitamins and minerals. This includes a Vitamin B5 boost to give you an added kick to get the most out of your hardest gym sessions.

If you are looking to utilise Tongkat Ali purely for the benefits it offers as an exercise supplement, then you need the right formulation. TestoMaxxx 2.0 Hardcore by BPM Labs offers exactly that, redesigned to make those tough sessions equate to even bigger gains. This supplement focuses on the testosterone-boosting features of Tongkat Ali along with other testosterone-supporting ingredients like Fadogia Agrestis Extract, allowing you to unlock your true workout potential. TestoMaxxx 2.0 Hardcore by BPM Labs is the upgraded formula that will leave you feeling like you have received your own upgrade, ready to break through your plateau and keep hitting your body composition goals. 

FAQS - Tongkat Ali:

When to take Tongkat Ali

If your supplement doesn’t already have serving instructions, we recommend that you take Tongkat Ali an hour before you go to the gym or partake in sports activities. If you are looking for the sexual health benefits of Tongkat Ali, take your supplement every morning before your breakfast. This is when most studies yielding positive results had their participants use the supplement. 

Will Tongkat Ali stop my hair loss?

There is no definitive proof that Tongkat Ali can reduce hair loss. Anecdotally it is a possibility. The potential increase in testosterone could result in more blood flowing to the scalp and reduce dihydrotestosterone (DHT). This mixture of factors is believed to be one of the reasons for hair loss.

Is Tongkat Ali safe?

There’s a lot of discourse regarding the dangers of Tongkat Ali and the potential damages. “Can tongkat ali cause gyno?”, “Can Tongkat Ali cause acne?” and “Can Tongkat Ali cause prostate cancer?” are popular searches when looking for this product. These are not listed as side effects currently found in research. Short-term effects discovered in some studies include lightheadedness, mild fevers and rashes (). Long-term effects have yet to be fully understood due to the recent nature of Tongkat Ali being used as a supplement in western regions. From a few human studies looking at potential long-term effects, there has been speculation that extended use could result in restlessness, anxiety and insomnia. These are also things that Tongkat Ali has actually been reported to aid in, so it is dependent on the person. 

Tongkat Ali is not recommended for people who have increased testosterone levels. Conditions like heart disease, liver or kidney problems, sleep apnea and other respiratory problems and certain cancers could react negatively to testosterone. If you are medicated with blood pressure pills or diabetes drugs, we suggest you avoid using Tongkat Ali without the knowledge of your medical professional. People who are pregnant or have young children are also not suggested to take this supplement. If you are worried that you are experiencing side effects from Tongkat Ali, contact your dedicated health professional. 

Is Tongkat Ali good for oestrogen issues?

Recent studies have shown that Tongkat Ali may inhibit the development of oestrogen. Hence it should not be used to improve oestrogen levels. 

Is Tongkat Ali good to stack?

When it comes to staking Tongkat Ali, you should treat it in a similar manner to how you would any synthesised testosterone booster. This means if you are using another testosterone booster, you should make sure you are not overdosing. 

How long does it take for Tongkat Ali to work?

As mentioned above, dependent on factors ranging from age, sex and tolerance, Tongkat Ali can take a differing amount of time to provide the desired results you are looking for. We suggest waiting up to 12 weeks to see full results, as this lines up with evidence found in scientific research. 

Tongkat Ali or Turkesterone?

Looking to learn more about Turkesterone? Check out our tell-all article about Turkesterone and whether you should think of buying it.

Is Tongkat Ali banned in Australia?

Currently, the TGA has made it legal for advertising, retail and sale of products, including Tongkat Ali in Australia. 

Could Tongkat Ali increase penis size and dimensions?

There is no evidence that Tongkat Ali increases penis size or dimensions.