Tongkat Ali also scientifically known as Eurycoma Longifolia Jack, is the root of a tree normally found in the jungles of South East Asia. Known as the tree that "cures 1,000 diseases", it can grow to about 12 meters in height. Natives use every part of the tree as medicine. It is valued for its aphrodisiac properties and treatment of diverse ailments ranging from cuts and wounds, skin infection, fever, malaria, high-blood pressure and diabetes. Tongkat Ali is also consumed to boost energy and stamina. However, it is more famous in South East Asia as traditional herbs to improve men’s health especially towards sexual desire.

A study by the Forest Research Institute of Malaysia (FRIM) showed that the Eurycoma Longifolia Jack or Tongkat Ali (Pasak Bumi) contain anti-oxidant properties, a high level of SOD (Superoxide Dismutase), an anti-oxidant enzyme. The aqueous and methanol extracts of Tongkat Ali has an effect of scavenging superoxide and lipid peroxidation. This showed that Tongkat Ali could inhibit the chain reaction of free radicals that could be harmful to the body system.

Research has also shown that Eurycoma Longifolia Jack contains several phytochemicals (plant chemicals) that support healthy testosterone levels (the sex hormone) required for the male sexual functions. It also supports healthy sexual organs and mental alertness. Let us now analyse how these Testosterone works on men and how is maintaining a good testosterone level crucial for men.

Testosterone - the Male Sex Hormone
Testosterone is the most important male sex hormone agent produced by the gonads. Its secretion stimulates the distinction of the male reproductive tract in the embryo, the descent of the testes into the scrotum, the further development of the reproductive tract and penis during puberty and maturation of sperm. It is also responsible for the development of secondary male sex characteristics such as facial hair, enlargement of the larynx (deep voice) and increase in production of the sebaceous glands, all of which are associated with masculine features. Testosterone also plays a role in the development and persistence of male libido (sexual desire) and sexual behavior.

Testosterone also has other "non sexual" roles: it performs the important function of protein biosynthesis in accelerating muscle build-up, increasing the formation of red blood cells, and accelerating regeneration and recovery time after illness or injury. It stimulates the entire metabolic activity especially in the energy metabolic pathways and burning of body fat.

As Age Goes Up, Testosterone Levels Go Down
If you ask any elderly man about his levels of endurance and sexual desire, his response will probably be one of dissatisfaction. What causes declining sexual prowess? Aging is a significant factor. But how is aging responsible for this syndrome? The key is declining testosterone levels. Research shows that during puberty, testosterone levels are peaking. Levels reach their lifetime summit at the age of 25, and steadily decrease with age. Some clinical studies indicate that on average testosterone levels drop as much as 2% per year after the age of thirty. Lifestyle habits are a significant factor in the rate of decline. Individuals who exercise regularly have a much slower rate of decline. This is due to the fact that exercise stimulates hormone secretion. A more prominent decline was observed in individuals who are heavy smokers and ingest a lot of alcohol.

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