Male fertility is influenced by many factors including hormones, stress, lifestyle, and age. In recent years, interest has grown around herbal remedies that may offer natural support. One of the most talked-about options is Tongkat Ali, also known by its scientific name Eurycoma longifolia. Used traditionally in Southeast Asia, this powerful root has drawn attention for its potential to improve male reproductive health.
But what does the science really say?
What Is Tongkat Ali?
Tongkat Ali is a medicinal plant native to Malaysia, Thailand, and Indonesia. Traditionally, it has been used to boost vitality, energy, libido, and male performance. Modern research has focused on its active compounds such as eurycomanone, quassinoids, and alkaloids, which may help modulate hormone levels and support testicular function.
How It May Affect Fertility
Tongkat Ali is believed to improve fertility by supporting the body’s natural production of testosterone. Testosterone plays a central role in sperm production, libido, and overall reproductive function.
Potential benefits for male fertility include:
- Increased sperm count
- Improved sperm motility
- Higher testosterone levels
- Reduced cortisol, which may indirectly help with hormonal balance
- Enhanced sexual performance and libido
Key Research Studies
Several human and animal studies have explored the effects of Tongkat Ali on male fertility. Below are some of the most cited findings:
1. Human Study – Malaysia (Tambi et al., 2012)
A study published in Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine evaluated 75 infertile men who took 200 mg of Tongkat Ali extract daily for 3 months.
Results:
- 44% improvement in sperm motility
- 18% increase in semen volume
- 14% increase in sperm concentration
- Some subjects successfully achieved pregnancy during or shortly after treatment
2. Animal Studies
Rodent models have consistently shown enhanced spermatogenesis, increased testicular weight, and higher sperm counts after administration of Eurycoma longifolia extracts. These studies support the potential mechanism of action in humans.
3. Stress-Related Fertility Issues
Stress is known to negatively affect sperm quality. One study found that Tongkat Ali reduced cortisol (the stress hormone) and increased testosterone, helping restore hormonal balance in men under psychological stress.
Is It Safe?
Tongkat Ali is generally well tolerated in moderate doses. Side effects are rare but may include insomnia, restlessness, or mild irritability if taken in excess. Studies using standardized extracts (100–400 mg daily) have reported no serious adverse effects.
Considerations Before Use
- Quality matters: Choose products that use standardized extract (often marked as Eurycoma longifolia Jack) with a known percentage of eurycomanone.
- Consult your doctor: Especially if you are undergoing fertility treatment or have hormonal imbalances.
- Consistency is key: Herbal effects are gradual and typically require several weeks to show results.
Tongkat Ali shows real promise as a natural supplement to support male fertility, particularly for men facing stress-related or mild fertility issues. While more large-scale, placebo-controlled human trials are still needed, current evidence suggests that it may help improve sperm health, hormone levels, and reproductive potential.
For those looking to enhance fertility naturally, Tongkat Ali could be a valuable addition to a holistic approach that includes healthy lifestyle changes, proper nutrition, and medical guidance when necessary.
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References
- Tambi, M. I. B. M., Imran, M. K., & Henkel, R. R. (2012). Standardised water-soluble extract of Eurycoma longifolia, Tongkat Ali, as testosterone booster for managing men with late-onset hypogonadism: A randomized clinical trial. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2012, Article ID 429268. https://doi.org/10.1155/2012/429268
- Talbott, S. M., Talbott, J. A., George, A., & Pugh, M. (2013). Effect of Tongkat Ali on stress hormones and psychological mood state in moderately stressed subjects. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, 10(1), 28. https://doi.org/10.1186/1550-2783-10-28
- Low, B. S., Das, P. K., Chan, K. L. (2013). Standardized quassinoid-rich Eurycoma longifolia extract improves spermatogenesis and fertility in male rats. Andrologia, 45(4), 309–317. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1439-0272.2012.01342.x
