Eurycoma Longifolia Safety

The Eurycoma longifolia shrub is known by several other names, including Malaysian ginseng and tongkat ali. Commonly found in Southeast Asia, the plant is used for a wide variety of conditions, according to the WebMD website.

Uses

• The bark and roots of the Eurycoma longifolia are used in the treatment of erectile dysfunction and for their purported aphrodisiac properties. Additional uses include the treatment of high blood pressure, malaria, ulcers, fever, tuberculosis, syphilis, cancer, diarrhea, hypertension, persistent cough and headache, WebMD reports.

Safety

• According to the Drugs.com website, no contraindications have been identified as of September 2010, nor are interactions well documented. No information is available for adverse effects or toxicity in humans. Pregnant and lactating women should avoid Eurycoma longifolia due to the lack of clinical data.

Considerations

• Reported side effects of Eurycoma longifolia include insomnia, according to the Tongkat Ali Guide website. Additionally, taking high doses of the supplement may increase body temperature, irritability and restlessness.