Last updated: August 2026. Written by Daniel Lazarevic. Fact-checked by Erik Johansson. The content is general information and does not replace medical advice.

Tongkat Ali for women: effects, dosage and safety

Tongkat ali can be used by women, but the research specifically on women is considerably less extensive than on men. What exists suggests a possible effect on energy, sex drive and stress tolerance via lower cortisol – rather than any strong hormonal change. Start on a low dose, and avoid tongkat ali during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Here we go through what tongkat ali actually does in women, how it differs from the effect in men, a reasonable dosage and who should be cautious. If you want to understand the plant from the ground up first, read our complete guide to tongkat ali.

Does tongkat ali work for women?

Tongkat ali (Eurycoma longifolia) is most studied in men, often with a focus on testosterone. In women the evidence base is smaller, but the mechanisms discussed – lower cortisol and supported hormone balance – are not sex-specific. Women also have testosterone, albeit at much lower levels, and it matters for desire, energy and muscle function. The effect in women should therefore be seen as possible but less well established, and it varies between individuals.

Possible effects

• Sex drive: some experience increased libido, an area where tongkat ali has been studied for both sexes.
• Energy and stress: most often linked to lower cortisol rather than to raised sex hormones.
• Recovery and well-being: reported anecdotally, but is more weakly established in women specifically.

If the goal is primarily increased desire, it may be worth reading our guide on libido and sex drive naturally, which covers more factors than individual supplements.

Dosage for women

There are no established women-specific doses in the research. A cautious starting point is to begin at the lower end of what is used in studies – around 100–200 mg of standardised extract (200:1) per day – and evaluate over a few weeks before possibly adjusting. Preferably take it in the morning, as it can provide energy. More on how to calculate your dose by extract strength can be found in our dosage guide.

Hormones: what you should know

Tongkat ali is often marketed as 'testosterone-boosting', but in women the point is not to raise testosterone sharply. A reasonable expectation is mild support for energy and desire rather than a large hormonal change. If you have a hormone-related diagnosis, take hormone preparations or the contraceptive pill, or are being investigated for a hormonal imbalance, you should check with a doctor before trying it – individual circumstances vary.

Safety and who should abstain

Tongkat ali should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding, as safety data are lacking. The same applies if you are under 18. Consult a doctor first if you take medication or have an ongoing illness. Common, mild side effects such as restlessness or sleep difficulties with late doses apply to both sexes – more in our guide on side effects and safety.

Alternatives worth knowing about

For women who mainly want to manage stress and sleep, ashwagandha may be a more studied alternative, with clearer support for reduced cortisol. Which one suits you depends on your goal – desire, energy or stress. See current products in our tongkat ali category.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Can women take tongkat ali?

Yes, but the research on women is limited. Start low, take it in the morning and avoid it during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Does tongkat ali raise testosterone in women?

The effect on hormones in women is less studied. Expect mild support for energy and desire rather than a large hormonal change.

Which dose suits women?

There are no established women's doses. A cautious start is 100–200 mg of standardised 200:1 extract per day, with evaluation after a few weeks.

Is tongkat ali safe for women?

At normal doses only mild side effects are usually reported, but pregnant and breastfeeding women and people under 18 should abstain. Consult a doctor if you take medication or are ill.

Tongkat ali or ashwagandha for women?

If the goal is stress and sleep, ashwagandha has clearer research support. If the goal is desire and energy, tongkat ali may suit. The goal decides.

For hormonal problems or uncertainty, contact healthcare services. This text is general information, not individual medical advice.