Tongkat Ali

At a Glance

Common name

Tongkat Ali

Scientific name

Eurycoma longifolia

Family

Simaroubaceae

Region

Southeast Asia

Plant part

Root

Caffeine

Caffeine Free

Evidence

Limited

Safety review

Safety information on file

Botanical Description

A tall, slender evergreen tree growing up to 15 m with pinnate leaves and small greenish-yellow flowers. The long, vertical, deeply ridged yellowish root is the medicinal part; it is intensely bitter, which is reflected in its name — 'Ali's walking stick.'

Also known as: Longjack, Malaysian Ginseng

Historical Background

Tongkat ali has been used in Malay and Indonesian traditional medicine for centuries as a tonic for energy, fever, and male vitality. In recent decades it has become a sought-after 'male enhancement' supplement worldwide, with Malaysia promoting it as a national herbal export.

Earliest recorded uses: Recorded in Malay and Indonesian ethnobotanical traditions as an energy and male tonic.

Cultural significance: Considered a national treasure of Malaysia and the subject of government-supported research; the surge in global demand has raised concerns about adulteration of commercial products.

1. Pre-colonial

   Used in Malay and Indonesian traditional medicine as a vitality tonic.

2. 2000s

   Standardized root extracts researched and marketed for male vitality.

3. 2010s+

   Global supplement market grows; adulteration concerns rise.

Traditional Uses

These uses document historical traditions and do not imply proven effectiveness.

Flavor & Aroma

Aroma: Bitter, slightly woody

Tea Preparation

Modern Evidence

Tongkat ali root extracts have been studied for stress hormones, testosterone, and male sexual function. Some small trials report modest improvements in stress-related cortisol and in subjective well-being, and a few report slight increases in testosterone in older or stressed men, but evidence is limited, many studies are small or industry-funded, and product adulteration is a known concern. It is not a proven treatment for low testosterone.

Evidence levels describe the state of research for the traditional use discussed here, not a recommendation. Historical use does not imply effectiveness.