What Is Tongkat Ali?

Tongkat Ali is a flowering plant native to South East Asia, known botanically as Eurycoma longifolia and locally as Malaysian ginseng or pasak bumi. For centuries its roots have been used in traditional South East Asian herbal practice — typically ground and simmered in water to make a bitter tonic valued as a traditional tonic and aphrodisiac.

Today the root is most commonly sold as a standardised extract, taken in capsule form as a food supplement or blended into foods and drinks.

Why people take Tongkat Ali

Tongkat Ali has become one of the most talked-about botanicals in the men's wellbeing space, and is widely used by men interested in supporting healthy, age-appropriate testosterone levels and general vitality. Much of that interest stems from its long history of traditional use and a growing body of early research into its active compounds — chiefly a group of molecules called quassinoids, of which eurycomanone is the most studied.

It's worth being clear-eyed about the evidence: studies to date are mostly small and short, and Tongkat Ali is a food supplement, not a medicine. We don't position it as a treatment for any medical condition. If you're concerned about low testosterone, fatigue or low libido, those are reasons to speak to your doctor — see our safety guidance for more.

The different forms — and why it matters

If you're new to Tongkat Ali, the terminology can be confusing. Here's how the main forms differ:

• Root extract — a fine, water-soluble powder concentrated from the roots, where the active compounds accumulate as the tree matures. This is the form we recommend and sell.
• "Tongkat Ali" extract — often made from a mix of root, stem and other plant parts. Cheaper to produce, but typically lower in active compounds.
• Chipped root — raw root chippings that need long simmering to make a traditional brew. Authentic, but inconsistent and impractical for daily use.

For a consistent, measurable product, a genuine standardised root extract is the most reliable choice. Learn more on our plant extracts explained page.

How to judge quality

Good Tongkat Ali root extract is a fine, water-soluble powder ranging from light sandy brown to a deep reddish-brown, depending on the roots and the extraction method:

• Lighter brown extracts are usually more standardised, with fewer impurities.
• Slightly darker, reddish tones are typical of well-made traditional extracts.
• Very dark, charcoal-smelling powder has usually been overheated during drying and is best avoided.

Because quality varies so widely between suppliers, where you buy matters as much as what you buy. Our buyer's guide explains what to look for — and what to steer clear of.

Tongkat Ali is a food supplement and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Food supplements should not replace a varied, balanced diet and healthy lifestyle. Not suitable for under-18s, or for those who are pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking medication, without medical advice. If in doubt, consult a healthcare professional.

Continue reading: How Tongkat Ali works →