Tongkat Ali and Fadogia Agrestis
Disclaimer: This content has been produced purely for informational and educational purposes only and is never intended to be used as a substitute for professional medical guidelines including diagnosis, advice, and treatment.
Tongkat ali and Fadogia agrestis are androgenic herbs that help improve testosterone levels and boost male fertility. Both these herbs have the potential to enhance sexual desire, increase exercise performance, help with body composition and treat fevers.
There are very limited studies on the health benefits of these herbs, however, it is purported that these herbs possess potent health-promoting abilities. This article provides detailed information on tongkat ali and Fadogia agrestis, their potential benefits, and possible risks or side effects.
What is Tongkat Ali?
Tongkat ali also known as longjack is a herbal remedy that has been used for thousands of years in traditional Southeast Asian medicine systems. It has been used by people to treat fever, erectile dysfunction, and microbial infections.
Research revealed that tongkat ali may increase male fertility, relieve stress, and improve body composition however more research is needed in these areas. Tongkat ali is biologically known as Eurycoma longifolia, originated in Southeast Asia, and is grown in different regions including Vietnam, Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, Myanmar, and Cambodia.
The literal meaning of tongkat ali is “Ali’s walking stick” which may be referred to as its aphrodisiac effects. Some people also believe that “stick” is stated due to the plant's long roots that are used for medicinal purposes.
Tongkat ali is less commonly known by other names such as longjack, Ali’s umbrella, and Malaysian ginseng. It is traditionally used by people to increase appetite and boost energy levels. Tongkat ali is commonly available in powder and capsules however some prefer to use it by making the decoction.
Health Benefits of Tongkat Ali?
The plant is rich in bioactive compounds such as steroids and alkaloids, the most important of which is quassinoids.
May Improve Sexual Performance and Male Fertility
Studies suggest that longjack has abilities to boost testosterone levels which helps boost sexual performance and male fertility. A review of various animal and human studies showed that consumption of tongkat ali improves semen volume, sperm count, and motility. Moreover, it can also improve erectile function and enhance sexual performance.
The enhanced reproductive functions are due to increased levels of testosterone and dopamine.
Can Increase Exercise Performance
Tongkat ali may serve as ergogenic acid, a compound used to boost energy levels and endurance. Studies revealed that consumption of E. longifolia supplements for a longer period can increase athletic performance. A pilot study of 57-72 years old people showed that consumption of tongkat ali extracts for 5 weeks resulted in increased testosterone levels and improved muscle strength.
Relieve Stress and Elevate Mood
Tongkat ali has been used by people to relieve stress and uplift mood. In a study of 63 participants, supplementing tongkat ali root extract resulted in relieving stress and boosting mood in a group of people. Moreover, a remarkable improvement in anger, tension, and confusion was also observed in these individuals.
Tongkat ali works by reducing stress hormones and increasing testosterone levels in the body. It is concluded from studies that tongkat ali can be used as an effective remedy to reduce stress and improve sleep problems.
Reduce the Risk of Cancer
- longifolia possesses potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties which help reduce the risk of chronic diseases. Quassinoides present in this medicinal plant contain anticancer properties and are effective against lung and cervical cancer cells.
Moreover, the anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties of tongkat ali help relieve inflammation and prevent infections.
Possible Risks or Side Effects
Tongkat ali does not cause adverse effects when used in therapeutic doses however, consuming higher doses of tongkat ali (more than 2000mg/kg body weight) can lead to DNA damage in the stomach and duodenal tissues.
A study revealed that a dosage of 1500-2000 mg of alcoholic extract and 3000mg of aqueous extract was considered lethal.
Overconsumption of longjack supplements may cause mercury poisoning, mood changes, motor skill problems, and memory issues.
It is recommended to avoid tongkat ali if you are suffering from kidney problems, heart diseases, and weakened immunity.
What is Fadogia agrestis?
Fadogia agrestis is a medicinal plant indigenous to Nigeria and its stem is used for therapeutic purposes. This medicinal herb is used to cure erectile dysfunction (ED), boost sex desire, enhance athletic performance, and aid in bodybuilding. Fadogia has also been used to treat malaria fever. However, athletes and bodybuilders utilized it as a substitute for anabolic steroids, it is the most well-known among them.
As an alternative to anabolic steroids, Fadogia agrestis is growing in popularity among athletes and bodybuilders. Promoters cite studies on animals that suggest Fadogia agrestis may enhance sexual behaviors and boost testosterone levels. The effects of Fadogia agrestis on humans, however, are unknown.
Health Benefits of Fadogia agrestis
Fadogia agrestis is known for its aphrodisiac properties and ability to increase testosterone and sexual desire. Furthermore, this herbal remedy is also used to treat other health conditions.
Powerful Antioxidants
Fadogia is an excellent source of antioxidants, the compounds having the potential to neutralize the harmful effects of free radicals and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. In vitro studies revealed that Fadogia agrestis extract contains polyphenols that show potent antioxidant activities.
Improve Erectile Dysfunction
This medicinal herb is well known for its aphrodisiac properties which increase testosterone hormone and improve sexual desire. A study revealed that oral administration of fadogia extract in rats resulted in an increase in testosterone levels after 24 hours of administration. Increased testosterone levels can increase sexual performance and fertility.
May Help Relieve Inflammation
Fadogia agrestis possesses potent anti-inflammatory properties which help relieve inflammation and reduce pain associated with it. An in-vivo study revealed that consumption of fadogia extract resulted in a significant reduction in inflammatory markers. These anti-inflammatory properties of plants also help relieve pain, arthritis, and Alzheimer’s disease.
Can Treat Anemia
This medicinal plant contains bioactive compounds such as chrysophanic acid which help increase the production of red blood cells and improve the symptoms of anemia.
May Improve Skin Health
Fadogia agrestis possesses strong astringent properties. It has been used to lessen skin blemishes and the overproduction of sebum. This herb can also reduce the eye puffiness by constricting the pores that surround the eyes. Antioxidants present in this plant prevent oxidative stress and cellular damage and slow the process of aging.
Possible Risks or Side Effects
There is not enough research on the safety of Fadogia agrestis however, few animal studies revealed that Fadogia agrestis in higher concentration led to some adverse effects.
Some of the common side effects include decreased appetite, sudden weight loss, increased heart rate, and reduced hemoglobin levels.
Inappropriate consumption may lead to damage to other organs such as kidneys, liver, and spleen. The person suffering from thyroid problems and pregnant women are advised to avoid its consumption.
Bottom Line
Tongkat ali and Fadogia agrestis are androgenic herbs having the potential to boost testosterone levels and enhance fertility in males. They improve energy levels, increase athletic performance, and treat erectile dysfunction. Besides various purported benefits, they should be used with caution to minimize the risk of any side effects.
References
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