Tongkat ali root extract is also known by the names Eurycoma longifolia, penawar pahit, Malaysian ginseng and Long Jack.
From the family, Simaroubaceae, it is a flowering plant that is indigenous to Indonesia and Malaysia, but is also propagated in localized regions of Vietnam, Thailand and Laos.
Tongkat ali roots and bark are harvested for a variety of medicinal purposes and used by millions worldwide. The primary reason for using this supplement is to reverse symptoms of erectile dysfunction and to promote increased sexual desire.
The medicinal phytonutrients found in the roots are called quassinoids and they are reported to be the bitterest natural substances known.



- Aphrodisiac & male sexual enhancer
- Increases testosterone & sperm motility
- Improves muscle mass, strength & mood
Description of Tongkat Ali Root Extract
The Eurycoma longifolia plant is a tall, sparse shrub/tree, growing up to 30 feet in height. It is an evergreen species and presents leaves that are long and compound.
Leaves are found in an even-pinnate arrangement and can reach 3 feet in length. Individual leaves contain approximately 36 leaflets, each being shaped like a lance: narrow, lengthy and pointed.
In an official botanical sense, they are classified as “obovate-lanceolate to lanceolate”, meaning they fluctuate between obovatol and lanceolotol characteristics.
These plants are an important part of traditional medicine in the Malaysian culture. They are believed to be effective at enhancing and preserving male sexual prowess. In modern days, demand for this supplement has spread throughout southern Asia and around the world.
Medicinal Properties of Tongkat Ali
In 2010, an ethnopharmacological inventory research study was conducted on tongkat ali root extract. It was found to demonstrate the following properties:
- Antimalarial
- Antidiabetic
- Antimicrobial
- Antipyretic (prevents fevers)
- Aphrodisiac
Tongkat ali root extract has been clinically shown to be likely effective at improving spermatogenesis, which is the development of spermatozoa. It is believed effective for increasing male fertility, sexual performance, and sexual desire. It may also improve hormone balance in males.
Research is currently examining the effectiveness of Long Jack extract for the following conditions and diseases:
- Tuberculosis
- Cancer
- Malaria
- ED (erectile dysfunction)
- Peptic Ulcers
- Bone Pain
- Diarrhea and Headaches
- Hypertension (high blood pressure)
- Syphilis
- Infertility in Men
- Coughs and Fever
Eurycoma longifolia is also being tested for its potential to enhance athletic performance, increase sex drive strength, enhance fat metabolism and improve results for bodybuilding. The quassinoids present in tongkat ali root extract are believed to increase the production of testosterone and enhance the body’s capacities to utilize it.
Clinical Proof for Tongkat Ali Root
Research shows that Eurycoma longifolia supplementation yields improvements in the quality of male sperm.
A 2012 double-blind, placebo-controlled human trial found that 300mg of Tongkat Ali extract administered for 12 weeks resulted in increased sperm motility and sexual libido. Also, the concentration of sperm in the semen was increased.
The same study also showed improved body fat composition with several patients experiencing significant fat loss.
In another study, 30-day supplementation of tongkat ali root extract was found to be possibly effective for increasing testosterone production, and treating symptoms associated with low testosterone levels.
Short-term use of Long Jack seems to increase sex drive and help with achieving erections. This is consistent with its historical use as a male sex aid.
There are inconclusive results from initial studies examining the effects of this supplement for athletes and exercise performance.
In one trial, Long Jack supplementation for 7 days consecutively showed no signs of improvement in athletic performance.
In another study, when taken for 5 weeks and combined with intense exercise sessions, E. longifolia increased muscle strength and size. This suggests that the effects may take a longer period of time to develop.
Despite traditional uses and early studies showing health benefits, not enough research has been conducted to make any determinations about its effectiveness for treating malaria, syphilis, cancer, bone pain, tuberculosis, coughs, high blood pressure, fever, ulcers or headaches.
Is Tongkat Ali Root Extract Safe for Use?
Clinical tests have shown Eurycoma longifolia to be possibly and likely safe for supplementation, in therapeutic amounts, for as long as 9 consecutive months. No negative side effects were noted.
Because it is not yet fully understood, pregnant women and nursing moms should not use this supplement. This supplement has not been examined sufficiently to determine whether it is appropriate for women to use.
It is always advisable to discuss any supplementation considerations with your doctor before beginning. Sometimes even natural substances that are well-tolerated by the majority of people can cause health issues for select individuals.
How much tongkat ali root extract should be taken for the best results? The precise optimal dosing amounts for a given individual will depend on several factors including age, health, sex and more.
Studies have typically used 300 – 500 mg dosages taken between 2 – 4 times a day. As a traditional medicine, the standard dose used in Indonesia for males is between 1200 – 2400 mg per day.
Always follow the recommendations of the label of the supplement you choose, and again, discuss supplementation dosing with your doctor.
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Article last updated on: May 11th, 2018 by Nootriment