Tongkat Ali Benefits for Men

Tongkat Ali Benefits for Men

Reviewed by medical experts
Published: April 26, 2025

Curious about the benefits of Tongkat Ali for men? You've come to the right place.

Tongkat Ali (Eurycoma longifolia) is a shrub-like tree native to Southeast Asia. Various parts of the plant have been used traditionally for a range of ailments. The root, in particular, has been used as an antibiotic, appetite suppressant, and aphrodisiac. More recently, this herbal remedy has become known for its potential to boost testosterone and combat sexual dysfunction.

But what does the science really say?

Read on to explore the limited scientific evidence behind Tongkat Ali and find out whether this traditional remedy can support erectile function, libido, male fertility, or other aspects of men's sexual health.

What is Tongkat Ali?

You may have heard of Tongkat Ali from fitness blogs or podcasts focused on men’s health. But this herb has a long history.

Tongkat Ali originates from Indonesia, Vietnam, Thailand, and Malaysia. It's a flowering plant in the Simaroubaceae family and contains bioactive compounds including flavonoids, alkaloids, and quassinoids like eurycomanone, which act as antioxidants. Antioxidants combat cell damage caused by free radicals.

Tongkat Ali can be taken as a powder or capsule and is sometimes mixed with coffee. Typical dosages range from 50–200 mg, though exact amounts may vary depending on the product.

What Does Tongkat Ali Do?

Tongkat Ali root extract has been used in Southeast Asian traditional medicine for a variety of purposes related to aging, mental health, sexual health, fertility, and more.

Common traditional uses include:

• Fever

• Malaria

• Diarrhea

• Dysentery

• Itching

• Pain

• Constipation

• Diabetes

• Sexual dysfunction

• Post-workout recovery

• Weakness

• Bacterial infections

• Low energy

• Osteoporosis

• Swelling

• Syphilis

• Stress

Tongkat Ali Benefits for Men

Some studies suggest that Tongkat Ali may help address male health issues like low testosterone, erectile dysfunction, infertility, and low libido. However, the research is still limited, and much of it is animal-based. Here are a few reported benefits:

1. Increased Testosterone Levels

Low testosterone can result from various causes including medication, chemotherapy, and aging. Symptoms include low libido and erectile dysfunction.

Can Tongkat Ali support testosterone production? Possibly.

A 2012 study gave 200 mg of Tongkat Ali to 76 patients with symptoms of low testosterone. After one month, the number of participants with normal testosterone levels rose from 35.5% to 90.8%.

Animal studies suggest quassinoids like eurycomanone may inhibit the conversion of testosterone to estrogen, helping preserve and possibly increase testosterone levels.

More human studies are needed before this can be considered a reliable treatment. Until then, proven testosterone therapies should be prioritized.

2. Increased Muscle Strength

Testosterone plays a vital role in muscle development and strength. Tongkat Ali, through its testosterone-enhancing effects, may improve both.

A placebo-controlled 5-week study found that older adults taking 400 mg of Tongkat Ali daily significantly increased muscle strength along with free and total testosterone.

3. Reduced Stress Levels

Tongkat Ali may lower cortisol, the body's primary stress hormone, reduce anxiety, and improve mood.

In a study of 63 moderately stressed individuals, 200 mg of Tongkat Ali daily reduced salivary cortisol levels by 16% and improved overall mood.

Another study with 109 men found that 300 mg of Tongkat Ali taken daily for 12 weeks improved vitality, emotional health, cognitive function, and testosterone levels. However, the supplement was taken with a multivitamin, so results may not solely reflect the herb's impact.

4. Improved Erectile Function

In the search for ED remedies, Tongkat Ali often comes up.

A 2015 review of clinical studies found some benefits, especially in severe ED cases, though results were not always statistically significant.

A more promising 2017 review suggested Tongkat Ali improved erection hardness, semen volume, sperm motility, morphology, and overall sexual satisfaction.

Is Tongkat Ali Safe?

While clinical trials up to 400 mg/day report few side effects, a 2021 report by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) warned of DNA damage at very high doses (2,000 mg/kg body weight) in animals.

Potential Side Effects:

• Insomnia

• Anxiety

• Restlessness

• DNA damage (in high doses)

• Reduced effectiveness of other medications (e.g., propranolol)

• Rare liver toxicity

How Long Does Tongkat Ali Stay in Your System?

There’s insufficient human research to determine this. In animal studies, eurycomanone has a half-life of 0.30 hours, but findings vary across species and may not apply to humans.

Alternatives to Treating Sexual Dysfunction

While some Tongkat Ali research is promising, it should not replace medical treatment for serious conditions.

If you're experiencing ED or related symptoms, seek advice from a healthcare provider. Evidence-based treatments may include:

• PDE5 inhibitors (e.g., Viagra, Cialis, Levitra, Stendra)

• Lifestyle changes

• Stress management

• Psychotherapy

Natural alternatives include:

• Maintaining a healthy weight

• Eating a balanced diet

• Regular exercise

• Prioritizing sleep

• Managing stress

• Talking to a therapist

Final Word on Tongkat Ali for Men

Tongkat Ali is a traditional herb with potential modern applications. Some studies support its role in boosting testosterone, improving erections, increasing strength, and reducing stress, but more rigorous human research is needed.

Key takeaways:

• Tongkat Ali has a long history in traditional Southeast Asian medicine.

• It may offer benefits for testosterone, sexual function, muscle strength, and mood.

• Current evidence is promising but limited; FDA does not regulate or approve Tongkat Ali.

• Proven therapies remain the first line of treatment.

FAQ

How soon can you feel Tongkat Ali effects?
Some studies report results within 2–4 weeks, though individual responses vary.

How long can you take Tongkat Ali?
Most studies lasted 1–3 months. Long-term effects are unknown. Consult your doctor for extended use.

Can Tongkat Ali replace ED medications?
No. While it may support sexual health, it should not replace professional treatment for serious conditions.

Sources:

• Ismail et al., 2012. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine

• Talbott et al., 2013. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition

• EFSA Panel, 2021. Scientific Opinion on the Safety of Eurycoma longifolia

Disclaimer: Information provided is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice.