Effects on Testosterone Levels

• A 1-month study in older men with low testosterone found that taking 200 mg of Tongkat Ali extract daily significantly increased testosterone levels to normal values in over 90% of participants
  [1]
  [2]
  
  
• A meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials found a significant increase in total testosterone levels in men receiving Tongkat Ali supplementation, especially in those with hypogonadism (low testosterone)
  [5]
  
  
• One study observed a 37% increase in testosterone levels after Tongkat Ali supplementation
  [3]
  [4]
  
  

Dosage and Duration

Mechanism of Action

• Increasing the release of "free" testosterone from its binding protein, sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG)
  [4]
  
  
• Potentially reducing cortisol levels, which can have an inverse relationship with testosterone
  [3]
  [4]
  
  

Additional Benefits

• Improved libido and sexual function
  [1]
  [2]
• Enhanced sperm quality and fertility in some men
  [2]
• Reduced stress and improved mood
  [3]
• Potential improvements in body composition and muscle strength, though more research is needed
  [2]

Considerations

• Effects may be most pronounced in men with low baseline testosterone levels.
• Quality and standardization of Tongkat Ali supplements can vary, so choosing reputable brands is crucial
  [1]
  
  
• More extensive research is still needed to fully confirm its effects and long-term safety
  [5]
  
  

Potential Benefits for Libido

• Some studies suggest Tongkat Ali may increase testosterone levels in men with low testosterone, which could improve libido
  [1]
  [2]
  
  
• It has been traditionally used as an aphrodisiac in Southeast Asian cultures
  [5]
  
  
• Research indicates it may enhance sexual arousal and performance in both animals and humans
  [1]
  
  
• Improved erectile function has been reported in some studies on men taking Tongkat Ali supplements
  [3]
  [4]
  
  

Mechanisms of Action

• Tongkat Ali contains compounds that may boost low testosterone levels
  [1]
  [2]
  
  
• It may help reduce stress hormones and improve mood, which could indirectly benefit libido
  [5]
  
  
• Some research suggests it may increase sperm motility and concentration
  [1]
  
  

Research Limitations

• While some studies show promise, more extensive clinical trials are still needed to conclusively prove Tongkat Ali's effects on libido
  [3]
  [6]
  
  
• The quality and standardization of Tongkat Ali supplements can vary, which may impact efficacy
  [2]
  
  
• Most studies have focused on men with low testosterone or erectile dysfunction, so effects in healthy individuals are less clear
  [3]
  
  

Safety Considerations

• Tongkat Ali appears generally safe when used as directed, but may interact with certain medications
  [5]
  
  
• Those with certain health conditions like cancer or heart disease should consult a doctor before use
  [5]
  
  

1. Several studies have shown that Tongkat Ali supplementation, when combined with resistance training, can lead to increases in muscle mass and strength:

• A 5-week study in 14 men found that those taking 100 mg of Tongkat Ali extract daily while strength training experienced significantly greater increases in lean body mass compared to a placebo group
  [3]
  
  
• Another 5-week study in 25 active older adults showed that 400 mg of Tongkat Ali extract daily significantly increased muscular strength compared to placebo
  [3]
  
  

2. The effects may be more pronounced in older adults or those with low testosterone:

• A 12-week study in older men with low testosterone found that 200 mg of Tongkat Ali extract daily increased testosterone levels to normal values in over 90% of participants
  [3]
  
  
• Tongkat Ali appears to be more effective for sedentary older adults with low testosterone compared to younger, active individuals
  [4]
  
  

3. The mechanisms by which Tongkat Ali may support muscle growth include:

• Increasing testosterone levels, which can promote muscle protein synthesis
  [1]
  [3
  
  
• Containing high levels of plant-based protein (20-40% crude protein content) that can support muscle growth and recovery
  [2]
  
  
• Potentially improving anaerobic peak power output and capacity
  [2]
  
  

4. However, not all studies have shown significant effects:

• A small study in cyclists found no improvement in performance or strength from Tongkat Ali supplementation during exercise compared to water
  [3]
  
  

5. The effects may depend on dosage and duration of supplementation:

• Effective doses in studies ranged from 100-400 mg daily
  [1]
  [3]
  [4]
  
  
• Study durations were typically 5-12 weeks
  [1]
  [3]
  [4]
  
  

Muscle Strength and Power

• A 5-week study found that participants taking 100 mg of Tongkat Ali extract daily experienced significantly greater increases in lean body mass and reductions in fat mass compared to a placebo group
  [2]
  
  
• Another 5-week study in older adults showed that 400 mg of Tongkat Ali extract daily significantly increased muscular strength
  [2]
  
  
• Elite rugby players taking 400 mg of Tongkat Ali daily for 3 weeks demonstrated a 20% increase in strength for both concentric and eccentric leg press exercises
  [2]
  
  

Anaerobic Performance

• An 8-week study revealed improvements in anaerobic peak power output and anaerobic capacity by 12-15% with Tongkat Ali supplementation
  [2]
  
  
• Participants who combined Tongkat Ali with resistance training showed the largest increase in anaerobic peak power
  [2]
  
  

Testosterone Levels and Body Composition

• A 1-month study in older men with low testosterone found that 200 mg of Tongkat Ali extract daily significantly increased testosterone levels to normal values in over 90% of participants
  [3]
  
  
• The herb contains compounds that may help the body use energy more efficiently, reduce fatigue, and improve endurance
  [3]
  
  

Stress Reduction and Mood Enhancement

• A study found significant improvements in tension (-11%), anger (-12%), and confusion (-15%) in subjects taking Tongkat Ali
  [1]
  
  
• The same study reported reduced cortisol exposure (-16%) and increased testosterone status (+37%), suggesting an improved stress hormone profile
  [1]
  
  

Considerations

• Some studies have shown conflicting results, such as a small study in cyclists that found no improvement in performance or strength compared to plain water
  [3]
  
  
• The effects of Tongkat Ali may vary depending on dosage, duration of use, and individual factors.
• More extensive research is needed to fully understand its effects on physical performance across different populations and types of activities.