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Tongkat ali (Eurycoma longifolia) is a tree native to Malaysia, Thailand, and Indonesia with a root long used by the natives to boost sexual desire and sexual performance, and to treat erectile dysfunction. Although it was referred to as the “Asian Viagra” in 1999 in the New Sunday Times, no scientific studies in humans have yet substantiated these claims.
The scientific investigations into tongkat ali have been done with lab animals. Articles report that the herb appears to work by increasing levels of testosterone, which is the main reason it is also used by bodybuilders who want to increase muscle strength and mass. In the lab, researchers have found some success with tongkat ali in rats. In one study, various doses of tongkat ali were administered to sexually sluggish old rats for 10 days. (Ang 2004) When compared with rats that had received placebo, those treated with tongkat ali demonstrated significantly more sexual arousal and activity. The investigators concluded that their results supported the use of this herb as an aphrodisiac. Studies in humans, however, have yet to be done.
A recent study from Malaysia reported that extracts of tongkat ali improved sperm volume, concentration, and motility in male partners of couples with idiopathic infertility. The improvements in sperm quality allowed for 14.7 percent spontaneous pregnancies. (Tambi 2010)
Consult a knowledgeable healthcare professional before taking tongkat ali. Reported side effects include insomnia, anxiety, and restlessness. Because this herb may increase testosterone levels, it should not be taken by men who have prostate cancer, heart disease, kidney disease, or liver disease. The herb may also lower blood sugar levels.
Reference
Ang HH et al. Sexual arousal in sexually sluggish old male rats after oral administration of Eurycoma longifolia Jack. J Basic Clin Physiol Pharmacol 2004; 15(3-4): 303-9.
Tambi MI, Imran MK. Eurycoma longifolia Jack in managing idiopathic male infertility. Asian J Androl 2010 May; 12(3):376-80.
