Long Jack extract is a common name for a supplement derived from the plant Eurycoma longifolia also known as Tongkat Ali.
This plant is a shrub-like tree indigenous to Southeast Asia, particularly Malaysia and Indonesia.
In many traditional practices, Long Jack has been used as a natural sexual performance aid and general health tonic. It is still widely used throughout Southeast Asia and can be found added to coffees, teas and energy beverages.
Scientific investigation into the health effects of Long Jack extract is limited and most of the traditional uses of Long Jack cannot be confirmed by currently available clinical evidence.
However, there has been reasonable demonstration to suggest that the supplement may support male fertility. It has been observed to increase spermatogenesis in men with erectile dysfunction (ED), and to increase the concentration of sperm in the semen of infertile men.



- Aphrodisiac & male sexual enhancer
- Increases testosterone & sperm motility
- Improves muscle mass, strength & mood
Long Jack Extract Benefits
Long Jack exhibits antimicrobial, antipyretic, antimalarial and anti-diabetic mechanisms of action.
It has been observed to enhance the body’s ability to use free-circulating testosterone and it may increase levels in men with low testosterone. These observed increases are typically attributed to an increased release of bound testosterone.
Tongkat Ali has also been observed to increase the synthesis of human growth hormone (hGH) and improve the body’s use of hGH. Because of these androgenic effects, Long Jack is used by athletes and bodybuilders
This supplement may also increase the synthesis of adenosine triphosphate (ATP). ATP is the main form of energy used within our cells. By increasing ATP, this supplement is hypothesized to increase energy levels.
There has been one published review article examining the effects of Long Jack extract on athletic performance. However, no studies have been conducted so far in humans to determine the efficacy of Long Jack for increased energy levels.
Long Jack for Muscle Growth
Long Jack is also reported to promote vasodilation through the synthesis of nitric oxide (NO). NO is known to induce vasodilation, a widening of the blood vessels that may result in improved circulation.
Improved circulation is associated with the increased delivery of oxygen, nutrients, proteins and hormones throughout the body, which is particularly appealing to athletes.
Improved circulation may support muscle growth as well as reduce recovery time following a workout. Research shows that muscles are better able to recover from intense workouts after taking vasodilatory agents. However, no studies have specifically looked at Long Jack extract for this use.
Uses of Long Jack Extract
As noted, E. longifolia has received limited research attention so far. Much of its current use is based on anecdotal evidence as well as traditional usage in Asia.
Some studies have been conducted looking at Long Jack supplements for the following health outcomes.
- Alleviate low blood pressure;
- Enhance libido;
- Lower LDL cholesterol and triglyceride levels, which may improve cardiovascular health;
- Support kidney and liver health;
- Alleviate symptoms of heart disease;
- Restore normal pancreatic activity in those with type II diabetes;
- Reverse the symptoms of atherosclerosis, hypercholesterolemia and other lipid-based disorders;
- Support memory retention.
However, much of this research is still in the preliminary stages and no definitive claims of efficacy have been made with regards to these uses.
Side Effects of Long Jack Extract
Side effects from taking Long Jack extract may include insomnia, restlessness and anxiety. In traditional practice it is not commonly associated with severe side effect when taken properly.
Some users have reported that taking Long Jack in the morning can help reduce sleep disturbances. Additionally, side effects may be an indication that the consumed dose is too high. Some recommend starting below the manufacturer’s guidelines and working up to the recommended dosage.
Interactions and Contraindications
Eurycoma longifolia is thought to contain a number of phytonutrients that may cause it to interact with prescription and over-the-counter medications. Additionally, there are a number of groups that are not well suited for Long Jack supplementation.
Women who are pregnant or nursing should not take Long Jack extract. There is insufficient evidence to understand what effect supplementation will have on the baby or fetus.
Additionally, because of Long Jack’s observed ability to alter hormone levels, individuals with a hormone-sensitive cancer should not take this product.
Individuals who have recently suffered a heart attack or those with chronically low blood pressure should also avoid supplementation. Long Jack should not be combined with antihypertensive medications.
This is not a complete list of Long Jack contraindications. It is important to speak with your doctor prior to beginning Long Jack extract supplementation to make sure the supplement is right for you.
- Natural Medicines. Eurycoma Longifolia: Professional Monograph. September 2015.
- Tambi MI, Imran MK, Henkel RR. Standardised water-soluble extract of Eurycoma longifolia, Tongkat ali, as testosterone booster for managing men with late-onset hypogonadism? Andrologia. 2012 May;44 Suppl 1:226-30.
- Tambi MI, Imran MK. Eurycoma longifolia Jack in managing idiopathic male infertility. Asian J Androl. 2010 May;12(3):376-80.
- Hamzah S and A Yusof. The ergogenic effects of Eurycoma longifolia Jack: a pilot study. British Journal of Sports Medicine 2003;37(5):465-466.
Article last updated on: April 1st, 2018 by Nootriment