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Tropical Leaves

LEARN MORE ABOUT TONGKAT ALI

Tropical Leaves

Where does Tongkat Ali grow in the jungles?

Tongkat Ali can be found everywhere in the deep rainforests. However, from what we've learned from the natives who have harvested them for decades, different types of Tongkat Ali can only grow in a certain parts of the jungle.

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For example, Red Tongkat Ali is found up the slopes while Black Tongkat Ali thrives well in nearby swamps and as for Ginseng Tongkat Ali, it is commonly found within the same vicinity of Yellow Tongkat Ali.  Requirements to harvest any type of Tongkat Ali would need to be at least 5 years of age

The different levels of eurycomanone present in Tongkat Ali
from different Malaysian states

Soil & geography is crucial for Tongkat Ali's bioactive ingredient Eurycomanone to be present & strong. Which is what Tongkat Ali is prized for. There are several factors that affect the percentages in Eurycomanone levels in Tongkat Ali. For example, the geography of the island population, coastal population, & hill forest population.

 

The difference in Eurycomanone levels in Tongkat Ali found all over the states of Malaysia are also the result of different geographical locations, altitudes, temperatures, & moisture. However, there are still many other considerations to be taken & still more research to be done.

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Graph below depicts the percentage of eurycomanone detected in Tongkat Ali in each Malaysian State.

Tongkat Ali Graph

Each part of Tongkat Ali contains different levels of eurycomanone 

Eurycomanone that is found in Tongkat Ali contains Quassinoids & Alkaloids and is considered one of the most vital bioactive compounds in Tongkat Ali. It’s unique molecular structure is widely researched for medicinal and adaptogen properties.The root is the only part that contains eurycomanone & while other parts of the plant may also contain small traces of it. Generally, the Tongkat Ali root contains between 0.9 - 2.0% eurycomanone levels.
Tongkat Ali Graph

Different ages of Tongkat Ali root

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From left to right: Young to old root

Yellow Tongkat Ali

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From left to right: Young to old root

Red Tongkat Ali

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From left to right: Young to old root

Black Tongkat Ali (Species 1)

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From left to right: Young to old root

Black Tongkat Ali (Species 2)

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From left to right: Young to old root

Ginseng Tongkat Ali

What are the benefits of Tongkat Ali for men?

Improving erectile strength without side effects

Increase in male fertility, sperm quality, motility and quantity

Improving strength during exercise with an anabolic effect on muscle growth

Safely boosts androgen levels

Reduction of the conversion of testosterone into estrogen

(anti aromatase effect)

​Reduction in cortisol, the stress hormone that lowers testosterone

Improves leanness of muscle mass

Boost luteinizing hormone (LH) secretion, which in turn stimulates the Leydig cells in your testicles to produce testosterone

Decrease in SHBG, sex hormone binding globulin

Elevating free testosterone level

Increases metabolism to promote weight loss

Helps reduces sugar levels, blood pressure and oxidants in the body

Now that you have a better understanding
of Tongkat Ali, 
let's go into questions people often ask

What's your opinion about 100:1 and 200:1 ratios of Tongkat Ali extracts?

Tongkat Ali extract must be tested for its eurycomanone content and not for the "ratio method" that is unverifiable. It's unfortunate but those claiming to have Tongkat Ali extraction ratios of 100:1, and even the 200:1 are false and only propagated by marketing people, not scientists/phytochemist.

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Also absent from all these companies is any mention of studies on the active ingredient marker in Tongkat Ali, eurycomanone. Eurycomanone is the prominent bioactive quassinoid present in Tongkat Ali that is used as a marker and should be present @ >2% Eurycomanone for a daily dosage of 600mg to 900mg. The eurycomanone concentration of the extract and daily dosage needs to be adjusted accordingly for an effective product. For example, a product that contains only 75mg of a 3% eurycomanone extract (claiming to be 100:1) will be below the therapeutic dosage and thus the concentration of the original extract is meaningless when the dosage used in the capsule is too low.

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Another issue is that the colour of an extract does not offer any clue to its quality or concentration, as a darker coloured extract may indeed be only "burnt" during excessive heating, especially by poor quality drying processes with subsequent loss of properties due to unregulated heat. Assay for glycosaponins is a standard in phytochemistry especially for products that elicit an effect on the male reproductive system. For example the majority of known active ingredients in Korean Ginseng are also glycosaponins. Finally, when you purchase a product from a company claiming a 200:1 extract then you are likely buying a reverse engineered extract that may not contain any Tongkat Ali extract at all, but in fact a different herb that contains similar organoleptic (taste, smell etc.) characteristics.

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Numerous commercial Tongkat Ali supplements claim “extract ratios” from 1:20 to 1:200 without any information about bioactive constituents, extraction methodology (e.g. ethanol versus water), or extract purity. Alcohol extracts of eurycoma have been studied in mice for antimalarial effects of concentrated eurycomalactone but also exhibit toxic effects at high doses (LD50 at 2.6 g/kg), which would preclude safe use in humans as a long-term dietary supplement. In contrast, hot-water root extracts standardized for known bioactive components (1% eurycomanone, 22% protein, 30% polysaccharides, 35% glycosaponin) have been demonstrated to be extremely safe at high doses and for long-term consumption.

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Properly standardised hot-water extracts have a distinctly bitter taste due to the presence of quassinoids, which are recognized as some of the bitterest compounds in nature Tongkat Ali extracts that do not taste bitter are either not true Eurycoma Longifolia root (there are many commercial examples of “fake” Tongkat Ali extracts) or are sub-potent in terms of bioactive constituents, and thus would also be expected to have low efficacy. Because of Tongkat Ali’s reputation for libido benefits, there are several examples of dietary supplements labeled as Eurycoma Longifolia, but containing none of the actual root, and instead being “spiked” with prescription erectile dysfunction drugs including tadalafil/Cialis, sildenafil/Viagra, and vardenafil/Levitra.

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Source credit: https://www.rainforestherbs.com.my/tongkat-ali-faqs/

How does Tongkat Ali work in our body?

As testosterone ages become bound to serum globulin and is not available for cell receptor sites where it is necessary to initiate sex stimulation centers in the brain. The component in the bloodstream that makes testosterone inactive-free is called sex hormone-binding globulin (HFBG). Too much estrogen can boost SHBG production and block testosterone receptor sites. The average 54-year-old man often has higher estrogen rates than the average 59-year-old woman. While some estrogens are a hormone needed for men, too contribute to a broad spectrum of health, weight gain and libido problems. Because of the similarities in the chemical structure, elevated serum estrogen levels also deceive the brain by thinking that enough testosterone is produced, thus slowing down the natural production of testosterone. In order for testosterone to produce positive health effects, it must be preserved in its free form in the bloodstream. Bonded testosterone is unable to be captured by testosterone receptors on cellular membranes. For aging men, it is desirable to remove excess levels of SHBG and estrogen whilst stimulating free testosterone at the level of a young man. Tongkat Ali is a natural way to boost bio-available testosterone while also lowering levels of SHBG and estrogens in aging men. Results from studies to date have confirmed that Tongkat Ali could help in the following areas:

In summary, these combined effects position Tongkat Ali as perhaps the safest and most effective herbal testosterone enhancing medicinal plant available today. It is particularly suitable for slowing down or reversing the so called male andropause that occurs in middle-age and is of benefit for athletes and bodybuilders looking for a natural supplement without side-effects.

What does Tongkat Ali contain?

The major bioactive compounds in Tongkat Ali are eurycomanone, glycosaponin, polysaccharide and crude protein. It does not contain gluten or any wheat proteins. Tongkat Ali plants found in Malaysia contain crude proteins between 15.5% to 39.9%. The amount of crude protein varies on the soil quality and Tongkat Ali in the state of Pahang usually has higher crude protein content. You can consume Tongkat Ali as an active food ingredient added to your coffee or tea, a performance enhancer by fitness enthusiast for muscle building, endurance and stamina or as a supplement for general health.​

Is Tongkat Ali backed by science?

There are more than 300 clinical evidence, tests and studies on Tongkat Ali that were validated by qualified scientists, medical professionals, and certified researchers in the last two decades. Human-tested clinical trials have provided sufficient evidence of Tongkat Ali’s effectiveness to benefit health in many ways. Scientists such as Dr. Annie George, Dr. Shawn Talbott, Professor Dr. Anthony Sinskey, Professor Hirokawa and others have long dedicated their research to Tongkat Ali for decades. 

 

Studies have shown that tongkat ali is able to boost testosterone levels in men by up to 37% over a 12-week period. In one study, participants received 200 mg of tongkat ali extract every day for 8 weeks. After just 4 weeks, the average increase in free testosterone was 28%. This number increased even further to 37% after the entire 12-week study period.

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Source credit: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23810842/

What is the dosage I should take?

The Tongkat Ali dosage recommended for consumption increases with age and it is also based on the underlying hormonal deficiency. As such, the dosage of a 65 years old will need to be higher compare to a 35 year old. For more information on our individual Tongkat Ali product dosages please see the description on each individual products.

How long does Tongkat Ali take to take effect?

It all depends on your age as well as how active you are in sports, gym, or daily activities. The more active you are, the results will come faster (sometimes within 2 weeks). If you are not active and more sedentary, it may take up to 3 - 4 weeks to feel energised.

Does Tongkat Ali help reduce gout?

Yes, absolutely! In a study done to explore the effect and mechanism of Tongkat Ali and its active compounds on uric acid excretion, it was found that Tongkat Ali significantly reduced blood uric acid levels, increased the clearance rate of uric acid and creatinine, prevented pathological changes of kidney, and improved renal functions & pathological injury. Tongkat Ali plays a role in hyperuricemia by promoting renal uric acid excretion.

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Source credit : https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6914847/

Can I take Tongkat Ali if I have high blood pressure?

Yes, in fact it is used to reduce hypertension. Tongkat Ali has a mild anti-hypertensive vasodilator effect, which basically means it will not aggravate your blood pressure and is one of the reasons that Tongkat Ali can be used as an alternative natural medication to help reduce high blood pressure. This is also another reason why Tongkat Ali works for males with erectile dysfunction because of its blood circulation effect.

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Source credit : https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5075299/

Does Tongkat Ali have any side effects?

Side effects varies in each person's body. These are common. Some may experience dizziness or headaches after consuming. While some who have weaker stomach, may experience an upset stomach. It lasts for a short while and goes away. This is quite normal as Tongkat Ali & Kacip Fatimah are quite strong herbs, the herb is still new to the body and it is taking its time to adjust. It is always recommended to start with a smaller dosage for any type you are taking and slowly progress you get used to it. Usually by the 2nd or 3rd week of taking Tongkat Ali, the dizziness or headaches will no longer be present. Other than that, it is also reported that some have stronger odour for the urine and some may experience heatiness. This is normal as well and we normally recommend to take more water while taking Tongkat Ali.

There are so many choices, which should I be taking?

Our Tongkat Ali products come in slices, powder, tea, coffee, capsules and extract. Our large range of products is catered to serve lifestyle. If you are a busy person that doesn't want too much hassle, you may opt for the capsules or extract or tea bags.  If prefer using it for longer periods and  having the time to boil it, you can take the slices or powder. All are 100% pure Tongkat Ali with no added ingredients. As with all other types of traditional herbs, Tongkat Ali should always be taken after meals. Make sure to not take any of these on an empty stomach as Tongkat Ali is strong and those with weak stomach may feel uncomfortable.

Can I take Tongkat Ali long term and how to maximize its benefits?

Most studies and clinical trials on Tongkat Ali ranging from 2 weeks to 36 weeks reported no negative effects on health based. Tongkat Ali does not appear to have any adverse effects on the liver, kidney and other health-related complications based on doses up to 600mg per day on a daily usage.  Reference to heathline.com, “Tongkat Ali appears to be safe in doses of 200mg to 400mg per day based on studies and clinical trials." 

 

The maximum limit is approximately 1000mg to 1500mg in a single dose. However, if you are an active sportsperson or an avid gym goer that works out daily, higher consumption of Tongkat Ali (ex: 600mg) is recommended to gain better performance output. Increased testosterone from Tongkat Ali translates to lean muscle mass, reduction of body fat, and increased mental performance and overall stamina.

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You can gain maximum results from Tongkat Ali with a combination of diet and regular exercise. A study by the University of Santa Catarina in Brazil concluded that Tongkat Ali supplementation with concurrent exercise can improve sexual health, total testosterone and combat Androgen Deficiency in the Aging Male (ADAM), a condition that is is associated with several sexual symptoms, including decreased sexual frequency, capacity, and desire, decreased beard growth, and erectile dysfunction. Exercise with Tongkat Ali brings the most improvement to ADAM symptoms.

 

The best recommended time to consume Tongkat Ali is in the early morning after breakfast as it will help to revitalise and energise your day.

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Source credit:

https://www.herbalgram.org/resources/herbclip/issues/issue-679/tongkat-ali-beneficial-in-androgen-deficiency-in-the-aging-male/

Can women also take & benefit from Tongkat Ali?

Yes! One of the biggest misconception when women think about Tongkat Ali is that they would look manly after taking it (increased in Adam apple's size, becoming muscular, having a deeper voice, or reversing their hormonal levels). This is not true at all.

 

Both men and women have testosterones and estrogen levels. Men have higher testosterone levels while women have higher estrogen levels. We normally recommend women to take Tongkat Ali periodically such as 1-2x a week to maintain testosterone levels in the body. Low testosterones in women leads to being easily tired, lack of focus, weak muscles and low energy levels. Maintain a certain levels of healthy testosterones in a female's body is ultimately the best way to stay active and youthful.

Does Tongkat Ali contain heavy metals?

Most lab-tested and clinically tested Tongkat Ali contain mercury less than 0.05 ppm, which is far below USFDA’s maximum permissible limit of 1.0 ppm of mercury.  Based on FDA’s findings on mercury levels,  Tongkat Ali has much lower mercury levels than Tuna (1.478 ppm), Mackerel (1.67 ppm), and Cod Fish (0.98 ppm), or even Oysters (0.25 ppm). Mercury is also found in most vegetables and fruits grown in some countries as anything that is grown naturally from the ground will contain some amount of heavy metals. FDA has not issued any warnings on mercury levels found in Tongkat Ali in the last 30 years.

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Source credit: 

https://www.fda.gov/food/environmental-contaminants-food/mercury-levels-commercial-fish-and-shellfish-1990-2012

​Does our Tongkat Ali contain other substances to increases its potency?

No, we do not add in any other unnatural ingredient or substances into our Tongkat Ali supplements. They are made of 100% original Tongkat Ali grown organically from the wild rainforests of Malaysia. There are many Tongkat Ali products in the market in the form of supplements, coffees or candies that are banned by the health authorities and local government agencies. Traces of contaminants or illegal substances such as Sildenafil, Tadalafil or Vardanafil are found in these banned products.

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Source credit: 

https://www.hsa.gov.sg/announcements/press-release/hsa-alert-kopiandberry

TESTIMONIAL

Testosterone Report

"Due to heavy workload, my workout sessions were irregular and I would only hit the gym once or twice a month. My muscles were weak and it was difficult for me to maintain my muscle mass despite working out with heavy weights and taking protein shakes. Then out of curiosity, I went for a testosterone test. I've always assumed I'm in great shape; therefore my testosterone levels would always be optimum. When the results returned, I was in shocked that it could drop so low for a man in his 30s (thought it would only affect me when I am in my 50s). Guess age is not a good indicator of high testosterone levels. The body shows clearer signs when it is low; mine having weak muscles and low energy levels. After that, I was introduced Tongkat Ali as a natural organic herb to boost my testosterone levels. So, I started on a regime that combined Tongkat Ali & workouts together for a good few months. In just 1 month of training & Tongkat Ali - I retook the testosterone test again. My testosterone levels improved drastically! From 13.7 to 19.4 in a span of a month! My muscles are now much leaner and I also find that my endurance level has increased. All thanks to Tongkat Ali! This would be my go to herb for a lifetime of male wellness and fitness. Am definitely very happy and pleased that there is a herb out there that can help men."

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Henry, Workout Enthusiast

Below are charts depicting each mood of before and after taking Tongkat Ali

Tongkat Ali Graph

Bar levels indicator from left to right:

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First bar: Before Tongkat Ali was taken

Second bar: Before a placebo different than Tongkat Ali was taken

Third bar: After Tongkat Ali was taken

Fourth bar: After a placebo was taken

Mood results of before and after Tongkat Ali as well as a placebo.

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Daily supplementation (200 mg/day for 4 weeks) with Tongkat Ali (TA) resulted in significant improvements compared to placebo (PL) for indices of:

 

Tension (−11%),

Anger (−12%), and

Confusion (−15%) in moderately stressed adults

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Stress hormone profile (salivary cortisol and testosterone) was significantly improved by Tongkat Ali supplementation, with

Reduced Cortisol exposure (−16%)

Increased Testosterone status (+37%)

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Tongkat Ali Graph

Salivary cortisol levels were significantly lower (−16% compared to placebo, PL) following Tongkat Ali (TA) supplementation (200 mg/day for 4 weeks)

Tongkat Ali Graph

Salivary testosterone levels were significantly higher (+37% compared to placebo, PL) following Tongkat Ali (TA) supplementation (200 mg/day for 4 weeks)

Source credit belongs to Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition

https://jissn.biomedcentral.com/

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3669033/

CONCLUSION

These results indicate that daily supplementation with Tongkat Ali root extract improves stress hormone profile and certain mood state parameters, suggesting that this “ancient” remedy may be an effective approach to shielding the body from the detrimental effects of “modern” chronic stress, which may include general day-to-day stress, as well as the stress of dieting, sleep deprivation, and exercise training

For more info on How to Consume Tongkat Ali, 

go to  USAGE

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