Eurycoma longifolia

Eurycoma longifolia is a flowering shrub or small tree in the family Simaroubaceae, best known as tongkat ali, Malaysian ginseng, or long jack.

Eurycoma longifolia is a flowering shrub or small tree in the family Simaroubaceae, best known as tongkat ali, Malaysian ginseng, or long jack. It is native to parts of Southeast Asia and has a long history of use in traditional medicine, especially for its roots. It is also sold as a dietary supplement, although evidence for many claimed benefits remains limited or inconclusive.

Description

Eurycoma longifolia is a medium-sized, slender shrub or small tree that can grow to around 10 metres tall and is often unbranched. It is a flowering plant in the Simaroubaceae family.

Distribution and habitat

The species is native to Southeast Asia, especially Indochina and the Indonesian islands of Borneo and Sumatra, and has also been reported from the Philippines. Sources also list it in countries such as Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, and Myanmar.

Traditional and commercial use

The roots, and sometimes other parts of the plant, have been used in traditional medicine for conditions including fever, malaria, erectile dysfunction, and general vitality. In modern commerce, it is sold as a supplement under claims of improving testosterone, sexual function, and physical performance.

Research and safety

Scientific reviews describe a range of studied bioactive compounds and possible pharmacological effects, but evidence for many popular health claims remains uncertain. Reported side effects in conventional doses are uncommon, though nausea, abdominal discomfort, diarrhoea, headaches, rash, and occasional liver injury have been noted.