Background

• Eurycoma longifolia is a tall, slender, shrubby tree that grows in sandy soil in Southeast Asian countries such as Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, and Myanmar (Burma). In Malaysia, it is planted for its medicinal value. Eurycoma longifolia is traditionally known as "tongkat ali."
• Eurycoma longifolia is traditionally used in Malaysia to improve sex drive and to cure sexual dysfunction, as well as for its fever-reducing, blood sugar-lowering, antimalarial, and antibiotic properties. Although tongkat ali is mostly used in males, it is thought to be as effective in females. It is believed that Eurycoma longifolia stimulates testosterone levels, resulting in increased sexual desire and ability, as well as increased athletic ability and muscle strength. However, few studies are available investigating the effect of this herb in humans.
• Further research is needed before conclusions can be made on the effectiveness of tongkat ali for any condition.

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