The Side Effects of Tongkat

Tongkat ali is an herbal supplement that has drawn much attention among bodybuilders because of its reported ability to boost testosterone levels. Although research on tongkat's effectiveness looks promising, some people who take it may experience unpleasant side effects.

Facts

• Tongkat ali (Eurycoma longifolia) is a slow-growing tree found primarily in Malaysia and Indonesia. It has a slim trunk and takes up to 25 years to mature to an average height of 30 feet. Because it's located under the rain forest's canopy, mature trees have become more difficult to find as a result of deforestation. Consequently, most tongkat ali preparations are derived from immature trees.

Uses

• Tongkat has been used as a traditional remedy for malaria, high blood pressure, fever, fatigue, loss of sexual desire and impotence. Among bodybuilders, it has been touted as a testosterone booster that enables the athlete to increase muscle mass at a more rapid rate. According to a study published in the journal Fundamental and Clinical Pharmacology, animal research indicates that tongkat does increase testosterone levels.

Forms

• According to Dr. Ray Sahelian, who specializes in studying natural supplements, natives in Malaysia and Indonesia consider all parts of the tongkat ali tree useful as medicine. The most commonly used parts are the roots and bark, which can be ground into a powder or used to make tea. Extracts from both, obtained through chemical processes, are available in powder form, tablets and capsules.

Side Effects

• The most commonly observed side effect of tongkat is insomnia. Another noted effect is an increase in body temperature, including a feeling of hotness in the head and face. Other side effects include irritability, restlessness, impatience and aggressiveness. Most of these side effects can be reduced or even eliminated by decreasing the amount of tongkat you take.

  Because this herb may affect hormone levels, women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should not take it. In addition, men with prostate cancer, diabetes, heart, liver or kidney disease should not take this herb.

Recommendations

• Before using any herbal supplement, see your doctor for a physical evaluation to make sure you're in good health. When first taking tongkat, use the lowest dose recommended by the manufacturer and, as your body adjusts to it and you are able to see how you react, gradually increase the dosage to the recommended maximum amount.