Tongkat Ali Vs. Turkesterone: Which's Better & Can They Combine
Are you looking to increase your energy, strength and muscle gains? Have you heard of Tongkat Ali and Turkesterone supplements before but don't know which is better or how best to combine them?
Tongkat Ali is more recognized as a beneficial supplement for male reproductive health and libido than Turkesterone. Meanwhile, Turkesterone is more popular for improving mental health and physical performance.
However, there are still many more things to consider when comparing these two supplements and how to combine them.
Let's find out right away in this article!
Before exploring further, please read the disclaimer located at the end of this webpage.
Introduction of Tongkat Ali
What Is Tongkat Ali?
Tongkat Ali (Eurycoma longifolia or Malaysian ginseng) is an herbal supplement to improve physical and mental performance.
It can be found in the traditional medicine of Southeast Asia, where it has been used to increase libido and treat various conditions, such as malaria and fever.
Research suggests that Tongkat Ali may have a number of health benefits, including improved metabolism, increased energy levels and enhanced immunity.
Additionally, Tongkat Ali has been found to help reduce stress and depression, improve muscle strength, and boost cognitive performance.
Curious to know what makes Tongkat Ali so beneficial? Continue reading to delve into its mechanism and unlock its secrets!
Mechanism of Tongkat Ali
Tongkat Ali works by increasing the body's luteinizing hormone (LH) production. LH is an essential hormone stimulating Leydig cell production of testosterone in men.
By boosting LH levels, Tongkat Ali may support healthy testosterone levels and improved physical performance. The increasing testosterone level leads to other benefits such as improving libido, increasing muscle strength, and releasing stress...
Additionally, Tongkat Ali is packed with antioxidants and can help reduce inflammation in the body, which can help manage stress levels more effectively.
Exploring the Benefits of Tongkat Ali
Tongkat Ali offers numerous benefits to the human body, particularly in men, thanks to its ability to boost testosterone levels. There are main Tongkat Ali benefits that we summarize:
- Increase testosterone level [6], [7]
- Improve libido and fertility [6], [7]
- Support muscle strength [8], [9], [10]
- Reduce stress and fatigue [11], [12]
- Anti-cancer [13], [14]
- Anti-inflammatory [15]
- Improve physical performance [8]
- Improve bone health [11], [12]
- ...
In addition to the benefits, it is important to be aware of potential side effects when using Tongkat Ali.
Potential Side Effects of Tongkat Ali
Although Tongkat Ali has been used for centuries as a traditional medicine, there is limited scientific evidence regarding its safety and possible side effects.
Tongkat Ali generally appears to be safe when taken at suitable dosages between 200 mg and 400 mg per day. However, high doses may increase blood pressure and cause insomnia, gastrointestinal discomfort, or headaches.
Additionally, despite the lack of scientific evidence, some users remain concerned about potential side effects of Tongkat ali on the liver, kidneys, gynecomastia, or male pattern baldness.
However, these concerns are based on rumors and remain controversial, with no scientific conclusions providing definitive answers.
Additionally, the herb may interact with certain medications, such as blood thinners and diabetes drugs.
It is important to consult a healthcare professional before taking Tongkat Ali supplements to minimize unwanted side effects.
Tongkat Ali Dosage
The recommended dosage of Tongkat Ali medically is 200-400 mg per day. It is best to take it in 2 doses, each containing one-half of the daily dose, for optimal results.
When taking Tongkat Ali supplements, follow the instructions on the label carefully and never exceed the recommended dose without consulting a healthcare professional first.
Also read: Tongkat Ali Vs Fenugreek - Comparison And Combination
Introduction of Turkesterone
What Is Turkesterone?
Turkesterone (TK) is a naturally occurring plant extract derived from plants such as Ajuga Turkestanica or Vitex. It is an anabolic steroid-like compound with many similarities to the male hormone testosterone.
Unlike testosterone or other hormones, Turkesterone does not directly bind to androgen receptors in the body but rather exerts its effects on proteins and enzymes in the body that can improve muscle growth, physical performance, and recovery.
Mechanism of Turkesterone
Turkesterone operates by harnessing the power of Ecdysterone, a compound that triggers a pharmacological response in the human body.
By activating estrogen beta receptors, Turkesterone initiates an anabolic effect akin to testosterone while preserving the natural production of this hormone [2].
Unlike anabolic steroids, Turke sterone does not bind to androgen receptors or disrupt the hypothalamic-pituitary-testicular axis.
This unique attribute has made it a popular option for individuals seeking to enhance muscle mass while maintaining their overall well-being [2].
Exploring the Benefits of Turkesterone?
Turkesterone has a number of benefits for athletes, bodybuilders, and regular gym-goers. These include:
- Increased muscle mass [2] [4]
- Improved physical performance [5]
- Enhanced strength and power [4]
- Reduced fatigue [3] [4]
- Greater concentration and focus [3]
Potential Side Effects
Turkesterone is generally well tolerated, but it's important to note some potential side effects. In addition to gastrointestinal upset, high doses can increase testosterone levels and cause acne, hair loss, and mood changes.
Some individuals may also experience dizziness, confusion, a decline in cognitive function, nausea, headaches, and exhaustion.
Turkesterone Dosage
The recommended dosage of Turkesterone is between 400-800 mg per day for best results. It should be taken in 3 doses, each containing one-third of the daily dose.
What Are The Differences Between Tongkat Ali Vs Turkesterone
While both Tongkat Ali and Turkesterone are renowned for their ability to enhance physical performance and muscle growth, they do so through different mechanisms.
Tongkat Ali works by boosting the production of luteinizing hormone (LH), which in turn stimulates the production of testosterone, a hormone vital for male sexual development and muscle growth.
On the other hand, Turkesterone doesn't directly stimulate testosterone production but exerts its effects by activating certain proteins and enzymes, which can improve muscle growth, physical performance, and recovery.
Regarding benefits, both supplements share some commonalities, such as improving physical performance and muscle strength, reducing stress and fatigue, and enhancing cognitive function.
However, Tongkat Ali has additional benefits, including libido improvement and enhanced immunity, which are not prominent in Turkesterone's profile.
When considering the side effects, Tongkat Ali may increase blood pressure at high doses and cause insomnia. Turkesterone, on the other hand, may lead to mood changes and acne due to increased testosterone levels.
It's important to note that Turkesterone is currently on the active substance watchlist of the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA), posing a high risk of being prohibited in sports.
According to the 2018 International Society of Sports Nutrition review, Turkesterone is not recommended for supplementation to enhance performance [1].
In contrast, Tongkat Ali is accepted for use by the Olympic Committee because its T/E ratio falls within an acceptable range. Additionally, Tongkat Ali is not included in the watchlist of WADA.
The sports and fitness community commonly utilizes Tongkat Ali to enhance anaerobic performance, promote muscle growth, and as a pre-and post-workout supplement.
Finally, the recommended dosage for Tongkat Ali is 200-400 mg per day, while that for Turkesterone is slightly higher, at 400-800 mg per day.
Read more: Fadogia Agrestis vs Tongkat Ali - Can We Take Them Together?
Summary Table
We summarize here the comparison table for you to easy to scan the key differences between Tongkat Ali and Turkesterone:
|
Criteria |
Tongkat Ali |
Turkesterone |
|
Origin |
A herb native to Southeast Asia |
Derived from plants such as Ajuga Turkestanica, Vitex |
|
Mechanism |
Stimulates production of luteinizing hormone (LH), leading to increased testosterone production |
|
|
Main Benefits |
|
|
|
Side Effects |
At high doses, it may increase blood pressure and cause insomnia, gastrointestinal discomfort, or headaches. |
Can lead to mood changes, acne, dizziness, cognitive decline, nausea, headaches, and exhaustion. |
|
Dosage |
Recommended dosage is 200-400 mg per day. |
Recommended dosage is 400-800 mg per day. |
|
Population and Scientific Studies |
More popular |
Less popular |
|
Acceptable Usage |
|
|
Which One Is Better - Tongkat Ali Vs. Turkesterone?
The answer depends on your individual needs and goals. Tongkat Ali is suitable for improving physical performance, muscle growth, libido, immunity, mental clarity, and stress reduction. It is also legal in most sporting events.
In contrast, Turkesterone has been linked to improved physical performance and muscle strength but may carry the risk of serious side effects, such as acne and mood changes.
It is also on the watchlist of WADA and may soon be prohibited in sports.
Therefore, it is best to consult with your doctor or healthcare provider before taking any kind of supplement to ensure that it won't interfere with your overall health and well-being.
Additionally, it's important to stick to the recommended dosage to avoid potential side effects.
Can You Take Tongkat Ali and Turkesterone Together?
Taking Tongkat Ali and Turkesterone together can provide complementary benefits to enhance physical performance, muscle growth, energy levels, mental clarity, and overall well-being.
However, it is important to take into account individual needs and goals before taking any supplement combination.
Also, if either of the supplements is on WADA's watchlist or prohibited in sports, avoiding taking them in combination is best, as this may lead to serious repercussions.
Regardless of what supplements you choose to take, it's essential to maintain a healthy lifestyle by eating a balanced diet, getting regular exercise, and managing stress levels.
This will ensure that you are getting all the nutrients your body needs to support physical performance and muscle growth.
You can achieve optimal results from your fitness journey by properly combining an active lifestyle with the right supplements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are There Any Potential Negative Effects of Combining Turkesterone and Tongkat Ali?
Combining Turkesterone and Tongkat Ali may increase the risk of side effects such as mood changes, acne, and insomnia. Additionally, it could potentially result in an overdose if the combined dosage exceeds the recommended limit.
When Can I Expect to Notice Results After Beginning the Use of Turkesterone and Tongkat Ali?
Typically, it takes a few weeks to notice significant changes after using Turkesterone and Tongkat Ali. However, individual results may vary depending on dosage, lifestyle, and physiological responses to the supplements.
Can Turkesterone Effectively Address Erectile Dysfunction?
While Turkesterone is known to enhance physical performance and muscle strength, it does not directly stimulate testosterone production, which is crucial for addressing erectile dysfunction. Therefore, its effectiveness in treating erectile dysfunction is not well-established.
Is the Usage of Turkesterone and Tongkat Ali Safe for Women?
Both Turkesterone and Tongkat Ali can be used by women under the guidance of a healthcare professional. However, as these supplements can influence hormonal balance, their effects may differ in women and men.
It's crucial for women to consult with a healthcare provider before starting these supplements to ensure safety and efficacy.
What Supplements Can Be Combined with Turkesterone for Stacking?
To enhance the effects of Turkesterone, consider using supplements like testosterone boosters, estrogen blockers, and growth hormone boosters.
Testosterone boosters increase testosterone production, complementing Turkesterone's muscle growth and performance benefits.
Estrogen blockers balance hormone levels and may enhance Turkesterone's results.
Growth hormone boosters support muscle development and recovery, aligning with Turkesterone's desired outcomes. Consult a healthcare professional for safe and optimal stacking.
What Precautions Should Be Taken When Using Turkesterone?
Turkesterone should be used in a controlled and recommended dosage to prevent potential side effects such as mood changes, acne, and dizziness.
It is also crucial to consult with a healthcare provider before starting Turkesterone, especially for individuals with pre-existing medical conditions or other medications.
Lastly, as Turkesterone is on WADA's watchlist, athletes should exercise caution in its use to avoid potential disqualification in sports.
Is Turkesterone More Well-Liked Compared To Tongkat Ali?
The preference between Turkesterone and Tongkat Ali is highly individual and depends on personal health goals and tolerance for potential side effects. However, due to its wider range of benefits and fewer side effects, Tongkat Ali is often more favored than Turkesterone, particularly by athletes and those in the fitness industry.
Conclusion
With so many natural performance-enhancing supplements, it can be difficult to determine the best one for you.
However, when it comes down to Tongkat Ali and Turkesterone, both have their strong points in terms of effects and features.
Some may prefer one, while others may even choose both for an added boost.
Whichever path you take, this combination is a powerful force to keep you at your peak physical and mental performance.
References
- [1] Kerksick, C. M., Wilborn, C., Roberts, M. D., Smith‐Ryan, A. E., Kleiner, S. M., Ralf Jäger, Collins, R., Cooke, M., Davis, J. N., E Galván, Greenwood, M., Lowery, L., Wildman, R., José António, & Kreider, R. B. (2018). ISSN exercise & sports nutrition review update: research & recommendations. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, 15(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12970-018-0242-y
- [2] Velislava Todorova, Ivanov, K., Karcheva-Bahchevanska, D., & Ivanova, S. (2023). Development and Validation of High-Performance Liquid Chromatography for Identification and Quantification of Phytoecdysteroids Ecdysterone and Turkesterone in Dietary Supplements. Processes, 11(6), 1786–1786. https://doi.org/10.3390/pr11061786
- [3] Bakhodir Mamarasulov, Kakhramon Davranov, & Dilfuza Jabborova. (2020, June). Phytochemical, pharmacological and biological properties of Ajuga turkestanica (Rgl.) Brig (Lamiaceae). ResearchGate; unknown. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/342678412_Phytochemical_pharmacological_and_biological_properties_of_Ajuga_turkestanica_Rgl_Brig_Lamiaceae
- [4] Mária Báthori, & Pongrácz, Z. (2005). Phytoecdysteroids - From Isolation to Their Effects on Humans. Current Medicinal Chemistry, 12(2), 153–172. https://doi.org/10.2174/0929867053363450
- [5] Zubeldia, J. M., Aarón Hernández-Santana, Jiménez-del-Rio, M., Verónica Pérez-López, Rubén Pérez-Machín, & José Manuel García-Castellano. (2012). In Vitro Characterization of the Efficacy and Safety Profile of a Proprietary Ajuga Turkestanica Extract. Chinese Medicine, 03(04), 215–222. https://doi.org/10.4236/cm.2012.34031
- [6] 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
- [7] Talbott, S. (2013). Human Performance and Sports Applications of Tongkat Ali (Eurycoma longifolia). Elsevier EBooks. https://doi.org/10.1016/b978-0-12-396454-0.00053-9
- [8] 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
- [9] Henkel, R., Wang, R., Bassett, S., Chen, T., Liu, N., Zhu, Y., & Mohd. (2013). Tongkat Ali as a Potential Herbal Supplement for Physically Active Male and Female Seniors-A Pilot Study. Phytotherapy Research, 28(4), 544–550. https://doi.org/10.1002/ptr.5017
- [10] Low, B.-S., Das, P. K., & Chan, K. (2013). Standardized quassinoid-rich Eurycoma longifolia extract improved spermatogenesis and fertility in male rats via the hypothalamic–pituitary–gonadal axis. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 145(3), 706–714. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jep.2012.11.013
- [11] 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
- [12] Vet, J., & Malaysia. (2022). INHIBITORY EFFECTS OF TONGKAT ALI (Eurycoma longifolia) EXTRACT ON LIGHTING STRESS- INDUCED SLEEP DISORDERS IN PIGS. 34(1). https://storage.unitedwebnetwork.com/files/478/8896465115c3e9db273d44a1aac2326b.pdf
- [13] Shankar Jothi, Thaigarajan Parumasivam, & Noratiqah Mohtar. (2023). Eurycoma longifolia: an overview on the pharmacological properties for the treatment of common cancer. Journal of Public Health in Africa. https://doi.org/10.4081/jphia.2023.2495
- [14] Qinna, N. A., Taha, H. A., Matalka, K. Z., & Badwan, A. A. (2009). A new herbal combination, Etana, for enhancing erectile function: an efficacy and safety study in animals. International Journal of Impotence Research, 21(5), 315–320. https://doi.org/10.1038/ijir.2009.18
- [15] 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
Author
CREDITS
This article synthesizes information from studies conducted by experts and researchers worldwide. The researchers below are the authors of the studies which are synthesized in this article.
Product Disclaimer
The dietary supplement products mentioned on this website are formulated based on scientific research and adhere to FDA guidelines for dietary supplements. However, the content of the articles has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and is not intended to promote or endorse any specific product. Any products sold on this website are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
Opinions and Endorsements
Any claims, statements, or opinions expressed in the articles are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily reflect the views or opinions of the manufacturers of the dietary supplement products. The products sold on this website are separate from the content of the articles and are not directly endorsed or associated with the information presented here.
Liability Disclaimer
The author(s) of the articles, website, and manufacturers of the dietary supplement products do not assume any liability for any potential consequences arising from the use of the information provided in the articles. It is recommended that individuals consult with a qualified healthcare professional before making any dietary or lifestyle changes, including the use of dietary supplements.
Product Usage
Please refer to the product labels and packaging for specific usage instructions and guidelines for the dietary supplement products sold on this website.
Customer Support
For any concerns or questions regarding the dietary supplement products, please contact our customer support team, who will be more than happy to assist you.
Leave a Comment
Be the first to comment.
What do you think?