Can Women Take Tongkat Ali? Benefits For Female Fertility
Women can use Tongkat Ali and benefit from this herb. Although it is particularly beneficial for men in boosting testosterone, sexual performance, and athletic performance, Tongkat Ali also supports the improvement of women's health.
Some of the effects of Tongkat Ali on women include supporting infertility issues, increasing energy, balancing hormones, relieving stress, and more.
In this article, you will learn more about how to use Tongkat Ali for women and the side effects and precautions to take when using it.
Before exploring further, please read the disclaimer located at the end of this webpage.
Key Takeaways
- Women can use Tongkat Ali and gain many benefits for libido, fertility, energy, stress reduction, weight loss, bone health, and reducing menopause symptoms.
- Women should use a lower dosage than men, around 50-100 mg per day, to avoid excessive increases in testosterone that could cause hormonal imbalances.
- Tongkat Ali may cause some side effects in women, such as headaches, dizziness, nausea, and restlessness.
- Pregnant and breastfeeding women should not use Tongkat Ali due to a lack of safety data.
Can Women Take Tongkat Ali?
For women, Tongkat Ali may help increase testosterone and give them more energy. Testosterone is crucial for women, especially those going through menopause, even though its benefits for males are more widely recognized. As a result, Tongkat Ali provides benefits for both men and women.
Before discussing "Is Tongkat Ali good for women?" and "How can women take Tongkat Ali?", let's take a look at the importance of testosterone for women's health. Knowing their effects may help you understand the role of Tongkat Ali.
The Importance of Testosterone for Women's Health
While typically associated with men, testosterone is a crucial hormone for women as well.
In addition to the crucial physiological hormones in women, such as estradiol, estrone, and progesterone, testosterone also plays a pivotal role in maintaining sexual well-being and happiness.
Testosterone becomes increasingly important for women during middle age - a phase in which women gradually lose testosterone, leading to symptoms such as menopause - which will impact the aging process as well as various other health issues related to cardiovascular health, cognition, and bone density [1].
Testosterone also plays a significant role in mood regulation. Balanced testosterone levels can help alleviate mood swings, anxiety, and depression, promoting overall mental well-being in women.
Factors like age, stress, and certain conditions can cause a decline in testosterone levels in women, and supplements like Tongkat Ali might help in maintaining these levels.
What Are Tongkat Ali Benefits For Female?
Recognizing the significance of testosterone in women, it is undeniable that enhancing testosterone and libido health becomes crucial, particularly during middle age.
That's why Tongkat Ali is good for women too.
Similar to men, Tongkat Ali can support women's overall health and well-being. It is loaded with numerous advantages for females as follows:
Tongkat Ali Benefits for Female Libido and Fertility
Women in the premenopausal and menopausal stages often face physiological issues, such as a decrease in sexual desire. This decline is partly due to the reduction of testosterone as they age.
Although testosterone is a male sex hormone, it also plays an important role in women's sexual health and fertility.
According to the research by Susan R. Davis, testosterone not only improves sexual desire and fertility but also increases energy levels and overall health. [11]
Tongkat Ali is recognized for its ability to naturally boost testosterone levels in both men and women, as shown in numerous studies.
One study involving 31 women and 32 men found a significant increase in testosterone levels by up to 37% in both genders, leading to noticeable improvements in libido. [4]
Another study conducted on middle-aged men and women recorded increases in total testosterone and free testosterone levels in women by up to 48.6% and 122%, respectively. [12]
Although the increase in testosterone is lower in women compared to men, this demonstrates that women can benefit from it without disrupting their hormonal balance.
Learn more: Can Tongkat Ali Help Men With ED? Dosage for Erectile Function
Enhances Energy Levels and Physical Performance
Tongkat Ali can help mitigate these symptoms by improving stress hormones, thus aiding in energy regulation [3].
It is understood to enhance vitality by boosting the body's metabolic processes and energy production.
As testosterone levels decline with age, women may experience fatigue and a decrease in overall energy.
This is considered an immediate effect of Tongkat Ali, which can be beneficial on days when you feel tired and low on energy.
You may also like: Tongkat Ali Benefits for Bodybuilding? Does It Help Build Muscle?
Aids Mood Management and Stress Reduction
Studies suggest that this herb may help reduce symptoms of stress and depression, resulting in improved mood regulation [3] [5].
The herb's potential stress-reducing properties may also contribute to improved energy levels, as chronic stress can often lead to fatigue and burnout.
One of the widely recognized mechanisms of Tongkat Ali for stress relief is its ability to reduce cortisol levels, a hormone responsible for stress.
Additionally, a study on the Human Performance and Sports Applications of Tongkat Ali on both men and women revealed that Tongkat Ali promotes overall well-being and boosts resilience to various stressors, including aging, dieting, and exercise stress [5].
Reducing Menopause Symptoms
Thanks to its positive effects on stress, energy, mood, and hormone balance, Tongkat Ali is also considered beneficial for premenopausal and postmenopausal symptoms in women.
A study in Canada on 119 healthy women found that Tongkat Ali, combined with Labisia pumila, helped reduce hot flashes and improved their hormone and lipid profiles. [13]
Another study on an animal model similar to menopause in women also noted improvements in hormone levels. However, these results were only effective for moderate symptoms and showed a certain level of improvement.
May Benefit for Weight management and Fat Loss
Usually, weight gain is associated with menopause. That's because testosterone levels also drop naturally when a woman stops producing estrogen and progesterone as she ages.
Low testosterone causes unwanted fat to accumulate in the body, which can lead to weight gain and obesity.
On the contrary, Tongkat Ali increases testosterone levels in both men and women, offering a range of benefits.
By increasing testosterone levels, Tongkat Ali may help women counterbalance hormonal changes and prevent the accumulation of excess fat. [4]
Studies on the effectiveness of Tongkat Ali for athletic performance have also noted reductions in fat and increases in lean muscle mass in both male and female participants.
While this does not directly support Tongkat Ali as a weight loss supplement, it does reflect its ability to help manage weight and maintain healthy fat and lean muscle mass in women.
However, these benefits of Tongkat Ali are only effective when combined with regular exercise and a proper diet.
May Support Bone Health
In addition to its stress reduction and energy-boosting benefits, Tongkat Ali is a great supplement for man seeking improved bone health.
However, is the testosterone-boosting ability of Tongkat Ali truly the reason for its potential benefits on bone health in women?
While age-related testosterone decline in men is a major cause of osteoporosis, the relationship between testosterone and bone health in women is still controversial.
A study on American women aged 40-60 found a positive correlation between testosterone levels and lumbar spine BMD (bone mineral density). [14]
However, the study only supports the need for further prospective studies with intervention trials and does not conclusively determine whether testosterone is effective for women's bone health.
Therefore, while Tongkat Ali may offer potential benefits for women's bone health, this is uncertain and requires further research.
Promotes Balanced Blood Sugar Levels
Tongkat Ali has also been found to be effective in helping maintain balanced blood sugar levels.
In a cross-sectional study, 56% of women with diabetes who used complementary medicine, including Tongkat Ali, reported that they felt it could improve their health. [15]
A study revealed that Tongkat Ali can reduce glucose intolerance and insulin resistance, thus assisting in maintaining normal blood glucose levels and reducing the risk of Type 2 diabetes [8].
However, it is important to note that these studies were conducted on animals or were cross-sectional studies, so the effectiveness in humans has not yet been clearly established.
How Should Women Take Tongkat Ali?
Women should take Tongkat Ali as per their physician's instructions. It is generally recommended to start with a smaller dosage and then gradually increase the dose until an ideal level of testosterone is achieved.
Based on Study [10], the suggested dosage taking Tongkat Ali falls between 50-200 mg/day, specifically of a water-extracted Tongkat Ali root standardized to 22% neuropeptides.
However, for women, a lower dosage may be recommended to avoid the excess increase of testosterone that may harm women's health and lead to other side effects.
Tongkat Ali is usually available in capsule, extract, or powder form and can be taken anywhere from once daily to three times a week for best results.
However, it is important to note that individual results may vary, and consulting a physician is the best way to determine the right dosage for each situation.
What Women Should Avoid When Taking Tongkat Ali?
Tongkat Ali is good for women but it's crucial to be aware of certain Tongkat Ali side effects, like headaches, dizziness, nausea, and restlessness.
Therefore, it is advised to seek medical help if any adverse reactions occur while taking this supplement.
Additionally, pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid taking Tongkat Ali to prevent any possible health risks for themselves or their baby.
Women who are on medications such as antibiotics, blood thinners, and antidepressants should consult their doctor before taking this herb.
Frequently Asked Questions
It Safe For Women to Use Tongkat Ali and Fadogia?
It is generally safe to use Tongkat Ali and Fadogia Agrestis for women, but it's important to be mindful of the dosage. Both supplements have the potential to increase testosterone levels. If the recommended level of testosterone is exceeded, it can have adverse effects on women's health.
How Does Tongkat Ali Interact With Estrogen?
Tongkat Ali indirectly interacts with estrogen by increasing testosterone levels, which can, in turn, influence estrogen levels. It's important to maintain a balance between testosterone and estrogen, as imbalances can lead to various health issues.
Tongkat Ali Vs. TRT: Which Option Is Preferable For Women?
When comparing Tongkat Ali to Testosterone Replacement Therapy (TRT) for women, Tongkat Ali may be a preferable choice due to its natural origins and lesser potential side effects. However, the decision should be made based on individual needs and preferences.
Can Women Take Tongkat Ali and Ashwagandha Together?
Although some studies that include these two herbs show effectiveness without causing side effects, women should still be cautious when combining them. Both Tongkat Ali and Ashwagandha can suppress cortisol levels, and women are particularly sensitive to hormonal imbalances.
This indicates that care should be taken when using them together. If you want to use ashwagandha and tongkat ali to improve mood and energy levels, it is advisable to start with low doses and combine them carefully. Additionally, it is recommended to seek products that contain both herbs from reputable suppliers rather than mixing them at home.
Can Tongkat Ali Benefit for Vaginal Health?
Tongkat ali is noted for its antifungal and antibacterial properties [15], which could potentially support vaginal health. However, studies are still limited and the effectiveness and safety of tongkat ali for this purpose have not been thoroughly researched in humans. Additionally, existing research only addresses the antibacterial properties of tongkat ali and does not specifically discuss its effects on vaginal health.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Tongkat Ali is a natural supplement with numerous benefits for women's physical and emotional health.
This herb can help balance hormones, promote bone health, regulate mood, reduce stress, maintain blood sugar levels, improve sleep, and control cortisol.
It's important to follow the suggested dosage and avoid excessive testosterone levels.
Pregnant or breastfeeding women, those on medication, or those with underlying health conditions should consult a doctor before taking this supplement.
Related Article:
- Best Tongkat Ali Supplements 2024: Forms & Price And Origin
- When To Take Tongkat Ali & The Best Time To Take Tongkat Ali?
- How To Take Tongkat Ali? Recommended Timing, Dosage And Forms
References
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- 2. Tyagi, V. V., Scordo, M., Yoon, R. S., Liporace, F. A., & Loren Wissner Greene. (2017). Revisiting the role of testosterone: Are we missing something? PubMed, 19(1), 16–24. https://doi.org/10.3909/riu0716
- 3. Shaheed Ur Rehman, Kevin Kyungsik Choe, & Hye Hyun Yoo. (2016). Review on a Traditional Herbal Medicine, Eurycoma longifolia Jack (Tongkat Ali): Its Traditional Uses, Chemistry, Evidence-Based Pharmacology and Toxicology. Molecules, 21(3), 331–331. https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules21030331
- 4. Talbott, S., 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). https://doi.org/10.1186/1550-2783-10-28
- 5. Talbott, S. (2013). Human Performance and Sports Applications of Tongkat Ali (Eurycoma longifolia). https://doi.org/10.1016/b978-0-12-396454-0.00053-9
- 6. Aida EL makawy, BARAKAT ALAA, HAFEZ, O. M., & ALLAH, M. (2016, April). Assessment of genetic and reproductive toxicity of tongkat ali plus®. ResearchGate; International Journal of Pharma and Bio Sciences. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/301206860_Assessment_of_genetic_and_reproductive_toxicity_of_tongkat_ali_plusR
- 7. Nadia Mohd Effendy, Mohamed, N., Muhammad, N., Isa Naina Mohamad, & Ahmad Nazrun Shuid. (2012). Eurycoma longifolia: Medicinal Plant in the Prevention and Treatment of Male Osteoporosis due to Androgen Deficiency. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2012, 1–9. https://doi.org/10.1155/2012/125761
- 8. Pei Jean Lim, Gan, C.-S., Khong, T. K., Sareena Hanim Hamzah, & Ashril Yusof. (2017). Effect of Eurycoma Longifolia Jack Extract on Lipolysis in Collegiate Athletes: Pilot study. IFMBE Proceedings, 97–100. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-981-10-3737-5_20
- 9. Toyama, H., & al, et. (2022). Randomized Controlled Trial of the Effects of Tongkat Ali Intake on Stress Markers and Sleep Quality in Healthy Japanese Adults. 薬理と治療, 50(5), 871–876. https://www.pieronline.jp/content/article/0386-3603/50050/871
- 10. Bhat, R., & Karim, A. A. (2010). Tongkat Ali (Eurycoma longifolia Jack): A review on its ethnobotany and pharmacological importance. Fitoterapia, 81(7), 669–679. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.fitote.2010.04.006
- [11] Davis, S. R., & Tran, J. (2001). Testosterone influences libido and well being in women. Trends in Endocrinology and Metabolism, 12(1), 33–37. https://doi.org/10.1016/s1043-2760(00)00333-7
- [12] Henkel, R. R., Wang, R., Bassett, S. H., Chen, T., Liu, N., Zhu, Y., & Mohd Ismail Tambi. (2013). Tongkat Ali as a Potential Herbal Supplement for Physically Active Male and Female Seniors-A Pilot Study. PTR. Phytotherapy Research/Phytotherapy Research, 28(4), 544–550. https://doi.org/10.1002/ptr.5017
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