Tongkat Ali

Identity

Common Name

Tongkat Ali

Scientific Name

Eurycoma longifolia

Botanical Family

Simaroubaceae

Native Region

Southeast Asia (Malaysia, Indonesia, Vietnam)

Cultivation Regions

Malaysia, Indonesia

Plant Parts Used

Root

Synonyms

Longjack, Malaysian Ginseng

Caffeine Level

Caffeine Free

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.'

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 Information

Research Summary

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 reflect the currently available scientific literature and may change as new research emerges. Where evidence is limited or conflicting, this is stated plainly.

References & Sources