Tongkat Ali (scientific name: Eurycoma longifolia) is a traditional herbal remedy widely used in Southeast Asia, especially in Malaysia and Indonesia. It’s often promoted as a natural aphrodisiac and male performance enhancer. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what is currently known about its potential to [increase](/2025-07-05-do-viagra-increase-sexual-power/) “sexual power,” which includes libido, erectile function, testosterone levels, and overall sexual performance.

Introduction to Tongkat Ali

Tongkat Ali is a flowering plant native to Southeast Asia, with Malaysia, Indonesia, and Thailand being primary sources. The root is the primary part used for medicinal purposes, traditionally valued by indigenous cultures for centuries. Today, it’s one of the most researched herbal supplements for male sexual health.

The plant is typically available in several forms:

Powders - Raw root powder, less standardized

Capsules/tablets - Convenient dosing

Herbal teas - Traditional brewing method

Standardized extracts - More reliable, typically at 100:1, 200:1 ratios, or standardized to eurycomanone content

Standardized extracts are generally preferred by researchers and practitioners because they provide consistent active compound levels across batches.

What Research Says About Sexual Health

Testosterone Support

Tongkat Ali’s most notable claim is its potential to support testosterone levels. Research shows it may increase free testosterone by stimulating the release of testosterone bound to SHBG (sex hormone-binding globulin), making more testosterone bioavailable to tissues.

A 2012 study in Andrologia examined 76 men with low testosterone and found significant improvements after supplementing with 200 mg/day of standardized extract for one month. Testosterone levels increased notably, with effects more pronounced in older men.

Libido Enhancement

Beyond testosterone, Tongkat Ali is thought to enhance sexual desire through multiple pathways. It may boost dopamine levels in the brain, which plays a critical role in sexual motivation and pleasure. Additionally, it supports androgen production and may improve mood, all contributing to increased libido.

A 2014 review in Complementary Therapies in Clinical Practice concluded there is moderate evidence supporting libido enhancement in men.

Erectile Function

The evidence for erectile function improvements is more limited but promising. Several small studies suggest improved erectile strength and frequency, particularly in men with mild erectile dysfunction. The mechanisms may include improved blood flow to genital tissues, reduced cortisol levels (which can impair erections), and enhanced testicular function.

Animal studies consistently show increased spermatogenesis and sexual behavior, but more robust human clinical trials are needed to establish definitive benefits.

Sperm Quality

Multiple studies have examined Tongkat Ali’s effects on male fertility. Research suggests:

Increased sperm motility and count - More active, healthy sperm

Improved semen volume - Greater ejaculate quantity

Higher pregnancy rates - In partners of men taking the supplement

These findings make it potentially useful for men experiencing fertility challenges related to low testosterone or poor sperm quality.

How It Works: Active Compounds and Mechanisms

The active compounds in Tongkat Ali include eurycomanone, alkaloids, and polypeptides, which work through several biological pathways:

Testosterone Optimization - Rather than adding external testosterone, it helps the body produce and utilize testosterone more effectively by increasing free hormone levels.

Stress Hormone Reduction - It may lower cortisol and other stress hormones, which suppress testosterone and sexual function.

Blood Flow Enhancement - Improved circulation to genital tissues supports erectile function.

Mood and Motivation - Dopamine support increases sexual desire and satisfaction.

The body’s natural testosterone production is often compromised by stress, poor sleep, weak diet, and aging—all factors that Tongkat Ali may help address.

Other Health Benefits Beyond Sexual Function

While sexual health is the primary focus, research suggests additional benefits:

Stress and Anxiety - A 2013 study found daily supplementation significantly reduced cortisol and improved mood and overall well-being.

Muscle Mass and Strength - Higher testosterone supports muscle protein synthesis, making it popular among fitness enthusiasts.

Energy and Fatigue - Better hormonal balance contributes to increased energy and reduced fatigue.

Athletic Performance - Some research suggests modest improvements in strength and endurance.

These secondary benefits make Tongkat Ali appealing beyond sexual health applications.

Dosage and Forms

Standard dosage range: 200–400 mg/day of standardized extract

Standardization: Look for products standardized to 1–3% eurycomanone, the primary active compound

Duration: Most research uses 1–3 month study periods; longer-term safety data is limited

Advanced users: Some athletes may go as high as 600 mg/day short-term, though this increases side effect risk

Form matters significantly: Standardized extracts (like LJ100®) are more reliable than raw powders because they provide consistent active compound levels. Quality varies dramatically among manufacturers.

Typical results appear within 2–4 weeks with consistent use, though individual response varies considerably.

Side Effects and Safety

When taken at standard doses, Tongkat Ali is generally considered safe for short-term use. However, possible side effects include:

Irritability - More common with higher doses

Insomnia - Related to increased energy and testosterone

Restlessness - Particularly if taken late in the day

Increased aggression - Directly linked to rising testosterone levels

Potential hormone interactions - May affect conditions sensitive to hormonal changes

Most side effects are mild and temporary, typically resolving when use is discontinued or dose is reduced.

Who Should Avoid Tongkat Ali

Pregnant or breastfeeding women - Insufficient safety data

Men with hormone-sensitive cancers - Particularly prostate cancer, as it elevates testosterone

Those on hormone replacement therapy - May interact or cause excessive hormone levels

Men with uncontrolled high blood pressure - Hormonal changes may affect blood pressure

Anyone with liver conditions - The liver metabolizes the active compounds

Consultation with a healthcare provider is essential before starting if you have any existing health conditions or take medications.

Quality Concerns: Counterfeit Products

A significant challenge in the Tongkat Ali market is quality control. Many products sold online contain little to no active Tongkat Ali or are adulterated with synthetic testosterone and pharmaceuticals. This creates both safety risks and effectiveness issues.

Reputable signs include:

Third-party testing certificates - Look for lab analysis

Standardized extracts - Eurycomanone percentage specified on label

Established manufacturers - Companies with proven track records

Reasonable pricing - Extremely cheap products are often counterfeit

Purchasing from reputable supplement companies with transparent testing reduces risk significantly.

Realistic Expectations

Tongkat Ali is not a miracle cure and won’t dramatically transform sexual function overnight. Instead, it’s best viewed as a supportive supplement for men with modest testosterone deficiencies or stress-related sexual dysfunction.

Results typically include:

Modest libido improvements - Not dramatic but noticeable in many men

Gradual testosterone support - Takes weeks to manifest

Better stress resilience - May indirectly improve sexual function

Most effective for: Men with baseline low testosterone, high stress, or age-related decline

Less effective for: Men with normal testosterone or severe erectile dysfunction requiring pharmaceutical intervention

Realistic expectations prevent disappointment and help you assess whether the supplement is working for your individual situation.

A Holistic Approach to Sexual Health

Tongkat Ali works best as part of a comprehensive approach to sexual health. The strongest results come from combining supplementation with lifestyle factors:

Sleep - 7–9 hours nightly is critical for testosterone

Exercise - Strength training particularly supports testosterone production

Stress management - Meditation, yoga, or counseling reduce cortisol

Nutrition - Adequate protein, zinc, and vitamin D support sexual function

Relationship quality - Emotional connection and communication matter

Medical health - Managing blood pressure, blood sugar, and heart health

Limited alcohol - Excessive drinking impairs sexual function

Tongkat Ali can enhance these efforts but cannot replace the foundational lifestyle changes that truly optimize sexual health.

Final Verdict

Yes, Tongkat Ali can support sexual function, but with important caveats. The evidence is most robust for libido enhancement, testosterone support in men with deficiency, and stress reduction. The supplement works best for men experiencing age-related decline, high stress, or mild erectile dysfunction—not as a universal solution.

Before starting, consult with a healthcare provider, especially if you have existing health conditions or take medications. Choose standardized, third-party tested products from reputable manufacturers. Set realistic expectations and combine use with comprehensive lifestyle modifications for optimal results.