Tongkat Ali (Eurycoma longifolia)
400 mg · Daily
Evidence
- Human Studies
- 25
- Animal Studies
- 20
- Clinical Status
- Dietary Supplement
- Confidence
- Low
- Long-Term Safety
- Reasonably well-tolerated in trials up to a few months; long-term (multi-year) data is limited, and product quality/standardization varies widely between brands
What this score is: a measure of how much research exists and how far along it is (animal-only vs. human trials, research-stage vs. FDA approved) — not how safe, effective, or worth trying a compound is. A low score usually means “early stage” or “understudied,” not “bad.” A high score doesn’t mean “better” for your goals than a lower-scored one.
This is not my personal rating of the compound, not a recommendation, and not medical advice. It’s a general research synthesis for informational purposes only, not a live literature count. See the linked research and talk to a licensed clinician before making decisions based on it.
Mechanism
Tongkat Ali is an herbal extract studied for effects on testosterone and stress hormone regulation, with proposed mechanisms including reduced SHBG (sex hormone-binding globulin, which frees up bioavailable testosterone) and modest cortisol reduction. Trial results are more consistent in men who start with low-normal testosterone than in men with already-normal levels.
Common Protocols
- 200–400 mg daily of a standardized extract (look for a stated eurycomanone percentage)
- Effects, where present, are usually reported after several weeks of consistent use
Side Effects
- Generally well-tolerated
- Insomnia or jitteriness at higher doses in some people
- Rare GI upset
Interactions
- Theoretical interaction with other hormone-modulating supplements or medications — combine cautiously
Practical Details
- Cost
- $$
- Typical Dose
- 400 mg
- Storage
- Store in a cool, dry place
Research Links
Popular testosterone-support herb; strongest evidence is in men with low-normal or low testosterone