Tongkat Ali for Women’s Health

Link to Natural Health & Organic Living Blog

Posted: 07 Aug 2014 08:00 AM PDT

Hormone imbalance is one the main contributors to the health issues that afflict many women today. Exposure to toxins that exhibit estrogen-like effects — and there are plenty — can place a woman’s natural hormone production off kilter. Symptoms related to this imbalance include fatigue, slowed metabolism, low libido, and brain fog. Traditional medicines have long used Tongkat ali, commonly known as Longjack, to combat many of these issues. Modern research does support its use as a health-supporting herb, and some research has even found it to support testosterone health. ^[1] ^[2]

Benefits of Tongkat Ali

Used for centuries to support female health, Tongkat ali still remains foreign to most people, including those interested in natural health. Fortunately, a great deal of research is shedding new light onto the herb's benefits, specifically for women. Here are just a few benefits of Tongkat ali for women’s health:

Weight Gain

Hormones dictate metabolism and an imbalance almost always leads to unwanted weight gain. Many of us may have come to accept that a certain level of weight gain and fatigue is a normal part of aging; however, this doesn’t have to be the case. Often, the reason we are gaining weight is simply because we are being exposed to certain environmental toxins that are messing with our natural hormonal equilibrium. Tongkat ali may aid in reducing weight gain by stabilizing hormones, an action that can be seen in both males and females.

Energy

When the body isn’t producing adequate hormones, or when its production has gone haywire, it can often result in an unbalanced energy level. Again, Tongkat may be an excellent tool for balancing hormones, thus aiding in balancing energy and metabolism. The increased energy may also be helpful for supporting endurance during exercise, linking Tongkat back to weight loss and maintenance.

Libido Boost

No matter your gender, a testosterone boost can be a helpful way for increasing sexual flame and desire. Folklore says that Tongkat ali is helpful for increasing the sensitivity of a woman’s erogenous zones, further increasing its libido-boosting qualities. While research has shown that the herb boosts libido in male rats, ^[3] researchers believe these effects can also be replicated in females.

Bone Health

Low testosterone levels increases one’s chances of developing osteoporosis, a debilitating disease characterized by weak, fragile bones. While calcium, vitamin D, and magnesium all play a role in bone health, maintaining hormonal balance is key for regulating the health of the entire body. Since Tongkat can increase serum concentration of testosterone, ^[4] it is believed that the herb may be a useful adjunct toward improving and maintaining superior bone health.

Mood

Research has shown that Tongkat ali reduces cortisol, our main stress hormone. Cortisol is produced in response to stress and is also one of the main contributors to stress-related weight gain. In clinical trials, Tongkat reduces tension, anger, and confusion. The herb may also reduce the effects of everyday stress associated with diet, sleep loss, and even exercise. ^[5] Improved memory is also associated with Tongkat ali supplementation.

Blood Sugar Health

Maintaining proper blood sugar levels through diet and exercise is one of the keys to protecting against type II diabetes. Research has confirmed that Tongkat ali may contribute to lowering and managing balanced blood sugar. ^[6] Reducing refined carbohydrates in the diet, increasing exercise, getting enough quality sleep, and receiving plenty of sunlight exposure are also extremely helpful ways to maintain balanced blood sugar levels.

Using Tongkat Ali

As a supplement, Tongkat ali is typically taken in extract form. To ensure maximum benefit, make sure to choose an extract with an adequate concentration. Some supplements will combine Tongkat ali with various other natural herbs to increase benefit. While this medicinal plant offers many health benefits, you may still need to discuss supplementation with your doctor.

-Dr. Edward F. Group III, DC, ND, DACBN, DCBCN, DABFM