EuryGold
Also known as: Tongkat ali, Malaysian ginseng, Longjack, EuryGold, Eurycoma longifolia
Overview
Eurycoma longifolia, commonly known as Tongkat ali, is a medicinal plant native to Southeast Asia, primarily recognized for its root extracts used as dietary supplements. It is widely promoted for enhancing male sexual health, increasing testosterone levels, improving fertility, and boosting athletic performance. The plant's root contains various bioactive compounds, including quassinoids, alkaloids, and other phytochemicals, which are believed to be responsible for its therapeutic effects. While traditionally used for centuries, modern research, including randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses, is increasingly exploring its efficacy and safety. The evidence base is still developing, with some promising results, particularly concerning testosterone enhancement, but further large-scale, high-quality studies are needed to confirm all claimed benefits and establish long-term safety.
Benefits
The primary evidence-based benefit of Eurycoma longifolia is its ability to significantly increase serum total testosterone levels in men. A systematic review and meta-analysis of five randomized controlled trials (RCTs) reported a moderate to large effect size on testosterone enhancement, observed in both healthy men and those with hypogonadism. This increase is statistically significant and potentially clinically relevant, especially for individuals with low testosterone. Secondary benefits, though supported by less robust clinical data, include potential improvements in male fertility parameters and sexual function. While some studies suggest these effects, more rigorous verification is needed. The supplement appears particularly promising for men experiencing low testosterone, with benefits typically observed after several weeks of consistent supplementation.
How it works
Eurycoma longifolia is believed to enhance testosterone production primarily by stimulating Leydig cells in the testes. It may also contribute to increased free testosterone levels by reducing sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG), which binds to testosterone and makes it inactive. Additionally, the herb is thought to possess adaptogenic properties, helping to lower stress hormone (cortisol) levels. Reduced cortisol can indirectly support the body's natural testosterone synthesis. Bioactive compounds like eurycomanone are considered key to these mechanisms. While its oral bioavailability and pharmacokinetics are not fully characterized, they appear sufficient to exert systemic hormonal effects.
Side effects
Overall, Eurycoma longifolia supplementation is generally considered safe and well-tolerated at the dosages studied in clinical trials. Common side effects (occurring in more than 5% of users) are not well-documented, and most available randomized controlled trials report minimal adverse events. Uncommon or rare side effects (less than 1%) have not been systematically reported but may include mild gastrointestinal discomfort. No significant drug interactions have been conclusively identified; however, caution is advised when combining Eurycoma longifolia with hormone therapies or other medications that affect the endocrine system due to its potential hormonal influence. Contraindications and safety data for special populations, such as pregnant women or children, are lacking, and therefore, its use in these groups is not recommended without medical supervision.
Dosage
Effective dosages of standardized Eurycoma longifolia extract in clinical trials typically range from 100 mg to 600 mg per day. For testosterone enhancement and male sexual health, common daily dosages are between 200 mg and 400 mg, often divided into one or two doses. The optimal dosage can vary depending on the extract's standardization and formulation; extracts with defined amounts of eurycomanone are generally preferred. While there is no established maximum safe dose, dosages exceeding 600 mg per day have not been extensively studied for safety or efficacy. The timing of intake relative to meals is not considered critical, but consistent daily supplementation is recommended for best results.
FAQs
Is Eurycoma longifolia safe for long-term use?
Current evidence suggests good short- to medium-term safety, but comprehensive long-term safety data are limited, so caution is advised for extended use.
How soon can results be expected from Eurycoma longifolia?
Increases in testosterone levels have typically been observed within 4 to 12 weeks of consistent supplementation in randomized controlled trials.
Does Eurycoma longifolia work for erectile dysfunction?
Some evidence suggests potential benefits for erectile dysfunction, but the data are less robust compared to its effects on testosterone enhancement.
Can women use Eurycoma longifolia?
Due to its hormonal effects and insufficient safety data in women, Eurycoma longifolia is generally not recommended for female use without medical guidance.
Is Eurycoma longifolia a steroid?
No, Eurycoma longifolia is a natural herbal extract and not an anabolic steroid. It works by supporting the body's natural hormone production.
Research Sources
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36013514/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis, published in 2022, included 9 studies in the review and 5 RCTs in the meta-analysis, involving both healthy and hypogonadal men. It found a significant increase in total testosterone (SMD=1.352, 95% CI 0.565–2.138, p=0.001) with Eurycoma longifolia supplementation. The study noted moderate heterogeneity and relatively small sample sizes as limitations, but assessed the quality of evidence as moderate to high.
- https://magistralbr.caldic.com/storage/product-files/445511096.pdf – This evidence-based review concluded that clinical data for many claimed benefits of Eurycoma longifolia, such as athletic endurance and muscle strength, are still lacking or of low quality. It emphasized the critical need for more rigorous human trials to substantiate these effects, highlighting the gap between traditional claims and scientific validation.
- http://sif2022-production.s3.amazonaws.com/uploads/attachment/file_it/1788/Borrelli_2018_Drugs.pdf – This systematic review from 2018 focused on various herbal supplements for erectile dysfunction, including Eurycoma longifolia. It indicated that while Eurycoma longifolia showed some promise, its evidence base was less strong compared to other herbs like ginseng. The review highlighted significant methodological variability across studies and underscored the need for better-designed randomized controlled trials to confirm efficacy.
- https://examine.com/supplements/tongkat-ali/ – Examine.com's summary from 2023 provides practical dosage guidance for Eurycoma longifolia based on available clinical trials. It also reiterates the need for more research to establish definitive protocols for its use and to confirm its long-term safety, reflecting the ongoing nature of scientific inquiry into this supplement.
