Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Eurycoma longifolia (commonly known as Tongkat Ali) is used as an ingredient in some athletic and exercise supplements, primarily based on its purported effects on testosterone levels and physical performance. Limited scientific research suggests that Eurycoma longifolia may have modest benefits for athletic performance, particularly in relation to muscle strength, endurance, and stress reduction. Several small-scale human studies and animal experiments have reported that supplementation with Eurycoma longifolia extract can lead to increases in testosterone levels or improvements in muscle strength and body composition among men with low baseline testosterone or those under stress. For example, a randomized controlled trial published in 2014 found that daily supplementation of 400 mg of Eurycoma longifolia extract for five weeks in moderately active men led to significant improvements in muscle strength compared to placebo. Some studies have also suggested potential anti-fatigue effects, possibly related to the adaptogenic properties of the plant.

However, the overall quality of evidence is low: most studies have small sample sizes, short durations, and variable dosages and extract standardizations. There is insufficient evidence to support robust claims about its efficacy as a general athletic or exercise aid, and authoritative bodies have not endorsed its use for this purpose. The current scientific evidence supports a possible, but unproven, benefit; more large-scale, well-designed clinical trials are needed to draw definitive conclusions.

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