Tongkat Ali Benefits: What This Herb Actually Does

Tongkat Ali (Eurycoma longifolia) is also known as Long Jack, Malaysian Ginseng, or Pasak Bumi. It is a flowering plant native to Southeast Asia that has been used for centuries in traditional medicine as an energy enhancer, aphrodisiac, and general health tonic.

It's one of the most popular herbal supplements marketed for testosterone support, athletic performance, and sexual health.

But what does science actually say? This article is an evidence-based look at what Tongkat Ali does, what the research shows, and what you need to know before consuming it.

What the Research Shows

Testosterone Support (With Important Caveats)

Tongkat Ali is strongly related to testosterone. In 2022, a meta-analysis of 9 studies found that Tongkat Ali supplementation significantly increased testosterone levels in men.

Key findings from the research:

Men with low testosterone (hypogonadism) showed the most significant increases after consuming Tongkat Ali. A systematic study found that 200 mg/day for 6 months raised total testosterone from 278 to 400 ng/dL.

Men with normal testosterone levels showed little to no significant change. A 4-week trial found no effect on free testosterone or cortisol in healthy exercising men. 

Dosage matters a lot when consuming 100-200 mg/day for 12 weeks produced modest increases (187→203 ng/dL and 200→225 ng/dL), while 600 mg/day for 2 weeks raised levels from 871→969 ng/dL in one study.

Stress Reduction (Cortisol Lowering)

According to research, Tongkat Ali may reduce cortisol levels, which is the body's primary stress hormone. One study found a 16% reduction in cortisol alongside improved mood and reduced stress symptoms. 

The stress-modulating effect of Tongkat Ali may be one reason some users report feeling better even without dramatic testosterone changes.

Sexual Health and Fertility

The traditional use of Tongkat Ali as an aphrodisiac has some research support. In 2025, NIH reviews note that Tongkat Ali has been studied for improving erectile dysfunction, male fertility, and libido.

Athletic Performance (Mixed Results)

Studies on Tongkat Ali show improvements in muscle strength when combined with resistance training. This herb alone doesn't appear to produce significant changes; exercise and training are much needed. 

Safety Concerns: What You Should Know

While Tongkat Ali is often marketed as a safe natural supplement, the research raises some red flags.

Health Risks

Multiple case reports have linked Tongkat Ali to liver injury after just one week of use. Abnormal heart rhythm issues also reported shortly after starting this botanical. The European food safety authority expressed concern that Tongkat Ali may cause DNA damage and concluded that its "safety has not been established under any condition of use". 

Quality and Contamination Issues

Products containing Tongkat Ali have been reported to be contaminated with heavy metals (like lead and mercury) or adulterated with sildenafil (the active ingredient in Viagra). In 2022, a study found that out of 41 products listing Tongkat Ali as an ingredient, only 24 actually contained the herb, and only 11 had recommended levels.

Who Should Avoid Tongkat Ali?

• People with liver conditions (or at risk of liver injury)

• Individuals with heart conditions or arrhythmias

• Anyone taking prescription medications (especially heart or blood pressure medications)

• Pregnant or breastfeeding women (no safety data)

• Anyone scheduled for surgery (potential interactions with anesthesia)

Bottom Line

Tongkat Ali shows some significant evidence for modest testosterone increase in men with clinically low levels but the effects in men with normal testosterone are minimal or non-existent. It has various other benefits such as stress reduction, sexual health support, and energy and stamina. 

If paired with other botanicals and honey, it enhances stamina, improves mood, balances hormones and provides antioxidant support. TurnOn Royal Honey has added Tongkat Ali in their HiveDrive ™ blend along with other traditional botanicals like Tongkat Ali, Tribulus, and Ginseng to support your overall vitality.