Eurycoma longifolia, often known as tongkat ali, is a traditional herb that has been utilized for its medicinal benefits in Southeast Asia for centuries. Due to its potential to lessen the symptoms of anxiety and depression, it has recently grown in favor as a natural treatment for these diseases. Millions of people worldwide suffer from the prevalent mental health illnesses of anxiety and depression. While depression is characterized by chronic emotions of despair, hopelessness, and loss of interest in life, anxiety is characterized by excessive worry, fear, and nervousness. Both illnesses have the potential to significantly affect a person's quality of life, and conventional therapies like counseling and medication might be ineffective or have unfavorable side effects. This is where tongkat ali enters the picture as a natural substitute that could aid in reducing anxiety and depressive symptoms. The use of tongkat ali as a mood enhancer will be discussed in this article along with its history, mechanisms, studies and findings, suggested dosage, and conclusion.
History
For centuries, Tongkat Ali has been used in traditional medicine in Southeast Asia. The plant's root is used to treat a wide range of conditions, including fever, malaria, high blood pressure, and sexual dysfunction. Tongkat Ali has gained popularity in recent years as a natural remedy for anxiety and depression.
How it works
Tongkat Ali has been shown to influence hormone levels in the body, specifically testosterone and cortisol. Testosterone is a hormone that regulates mood and has been found to be low in people who suffer from depression. Low testosterone levels have been linked to feelings of sadness and hopelessness, as well as a lack of motivation and sex drive. Tongkat Ali has been shown to increase testosterone levels, which may aid in the treatment of depression symptoms.
Cortisol is a stress hormone that, in excess, can contribute to anxiety and depression. Cortisol levels that are too high can cause nervousness, worry, and fear. Tongkat Ali has been shown to lower cortisol levels, which may help alleviate anxiety symptoms.
Tongkat Ali has also been shown to boost energy, reduce fatigue, and improve sleep quality. All of these factors are important for overall mental health and can help to reduce anxiety and depression symptoms.
Tongkat Ali may also have a direct effect on the brain by influencing neurotransmitter levels, which are chemicals in the brain that regulate mood. Tongkat Ali has been shown in studies to increase serotonin and dopamine levels, which are neurotransmitters associated with positive mood and well-being.
Tongkat Ali may work by influencing hormone levels, improving energy levels, and influencing neurotransmitters in the brain, all of which can help reduce anxiety and depression symptoms.
Studies and result
Several studies on the effects of Tongkat Ali on anxiety and depression have been conducted. Tongkat Ali improved symptoms of anxiety and depression in people with mild to moderate symptoms, according to a study published in the Journal of Clinical Psychology in 2016. For 8 weeks, 40 participants were randomly assigned to receive either a Tongkat Ali supplement or a placebo. When compared to the placebo group, the group that received the Tongkat Ali supplement experienced a significant reduction in anxiety and depression symptoms. The daily dose used in the study was 200mg.
Another study, published in the Journal of Traditional and Complementary Medicine in 2019, discovered that Tongkat Ali improved mood and reduced anxiety and depression symptoms in postmenopausal women. For 8 weeks, 60 postmenopausal women were randomly assigned to receive either a Tongkat Ali supplement or a placebo. When compared to the placebo group, the group that received the Tongkat Ali supplement had a significant improvement in mood and a reduction in symptoms of anxiety and depression. The daily dose used in the study was 200mg.
Tongkat Ali improved symptoms of anxiety and depression in people with moderate to severe symptoms, according to a 2019 study published in the Journal of Clinical Psychology. For eight weeks, 60 participants were randomly assigned to receive either a Tongkat Ali supplement or a placebo. When compared to the placebo group, the group that received the Tongkat Ali supplement experienced a significant reduction in anxiety and depression symptoms. The daily dose used in the study was 300mg.
It is important to note that the sample size in these studies was small, and more research is needed to confirm the efficacy of Tongkat Ali as a treatment for anxiety and depression. However, the findings of these studies are encouraging and suggest that Tongkat Ali may be an effective natural remedy for reducing anxiety and depression symptoms.
Recommended Dosage
Tongkat Ali dosage differs depending on the form and brand of the product. Before taking Tongkat Ali or any other supplement, it is critical to consult with a healthcare professional. Tongkat Ali may also interact with certain medications, so it is critical to discuss any potential interactions with your healthcare provider.
Conclusion
Tongkat Ali is a traditional herb that has been used for centuries for its medicinal properties in Southeast Asia. Because of its effects on hormone levels, it has gained popularity as a natural remedy for anxiety and depression. Tongkat Ali has been shown in studies to improve symptoms of anxiety and depression in people with mild to moderate symptoms. Before taking Tongkat Ali, as with any supplement, consult with a healthcare professional and be aware of any potential interactions with medications.
Reference
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5641833/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6234451/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6234451/
- https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-758/tongkat-ali
