Cortisol is a hormone produced by the adrenal glands plays a crucial role in various bodily functions including stress management, metabolism, immune response, blood pressure regulation, and the body’s fight-or-flight response. Chronically elevated levels of cortisol due to prolonged stress can have negative effects on human health.
Tongkat Ali (Eurycoma Longifolia) is a natural supplement from Malaysia that performs similar to Ashwagandha; with adaptogenic properties that regulate cortisol levels.
This article investigates the effects of Tongkat Ali managing cortisol levels and how it may benefit your health.
Studies showed that Tongkat Ali supplementation reduces cortisol levels in both moderately stressed subjects and those who are not exposed to stress by 16% and 11% respectively. This suggests potential use of Tongkat Ali as an effective cortisol regulating supplement.
A one-month study conducted on 63 mildly stressed test participants showed moderate reduction of cortisol by 16% after 30 days of Tongkat Ali.
In another randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study on 105 test participants aged 50 to 70 years showed a reduction of cortisol levels of 11% after 3 months consumption of 200 mg Tongkat Ali daily.
Whilst the test subjects had zero stress levels, Tongkat Ali supplementation recorded a significant reduction of 11% of cortisol, indicating possible wide range of applications in regulating cortisol levels.
|
Tongkat Ali Dosage |
Cortisol Levels (Before Test) |
Cortisol Levels (After 12 weeks) |
|
100 mg |
292.6 nmol/l |
280.6 nmol/l |
|
200 mg |
284.6 nmol/l |
252.8 nmol/l |
Source: The effect of Eurycoma longifolia standardised aqueous root extract (Physta®) on testosterone levels and quality of life in ageing male subjects (2021)
Lowering your cortisol levels through Tongkat Ali supplementation offers several potential benefits such as better mood and stress reduction, better immune system support, better weight management, promoting a heathly heart, cognitive functions and sleep quality.
Here are nine potential benefits of Tongkat Ali effects of lowering cortisol:
High levels of chronic stress lead to continuously elevated cortisol levels, which contribute to increased anxiety, tension and depression. Tongkat Ali helps reduce anxiety, tension and confusion by lowering cortisol by up to 16% to mitigate these psychological effects, leading to improved overall well-being.
Related Article: Tongkat Ali Effects on Mood & Stress
Prolonged high cortisol levels can suppress the immune system, making the body more susceptible to infections and illnesses. Tongkat Ali helps reduces cortisol and a randomized, placebo-controlled clinical study on 83 males by a group of Japanese scientists showed an increase in immunity-related cells, i.e Naïve T-cell and CD4 T-Cell by 28% and 12% respectively.
Related Article: Tongkat Ali Effects on Immunity System
Elevated cortisol levels have been associated with increased appetite, particularly for high-calorie and sugary foods. Tongkat Ali’s thermogenic properties boost metabolism and fat burn/ This is backed by a study showing a significant reduction of Body Mass Index in obese adults after 112 days. Coupled with Tongkat Ali’s effect of lowering cortisol may help regulate appetite and reduce the likelihood of overeating, this further support weight management efforts.
Related Article: Tongkat Ali Effects on Weight Loss, Fat Burn, Metabolism & Calories
High cortisol levels can contribute to hypertension (high blood pressure) and negatively impact cardiovascular health. Lowering cortisol using Tongkat Ali may help reduce the risk of heart-related issues by promoting healthier blood pressure levels.
Chronic stress and high cortisol levels can impair cognitive function, including memory and concentration. When paired with Vitamin C or Vitamin B, Tongkat Ali’s effects in lowering cortisol levels may improve cognitive performance and mental clarity whilst reducing brain fog.
Elevated cortisol levels, especially at night, can disrupt the sleep cycle and lead to insomnia. Latest study in 2022 showed that Tongkat Ali promotes sleep quality by increasing REM and Non-REM sleep duration and reducing sleep latency. The effects of Tongkat Ali in lowering cortisol may help regulate the body’s natural sleep-wake cycle, leading to better sleep quality and overall restfulness.
Related Article: How Tongkat Ali Improves Sleep Quality
Prolonged high cortisol levels can lead to reduced bone density and increased risk of osteoporosis. A review study showed promising anti-osteoporotic potential on humansand the effects of Tongkat Ali in lowering cortisol may support stronger bones formation and reduce the risk of fractures.
Related Article: Review of Tongkat Ali on Osteoporosis
High cortisol levels have been linked to skin problems such as acne, eczema, and psoriasis. Tongkat Ali supplementation with the correct dosage may contribute to improved skin health and a reduction in skin-related issues by lowering your cortisol, especially for per-menopausal and post-menopausal women.
Chronic stress and high cortisol levels have been associated with accelerated aging and a higher risk of age-related diseases. The indirect benefit of Tongkat Ali due to optimal cortisol levels may contribute to improved longevity and a better quality of life as they age.
There are other methods for reducing or managing your cortisol levels when taking Tongkat Ali.
Tongkat Ali supplements may be used as part of stress management techniques such as:
Related Article: When To Use Tongkat Ali For Best Results
Caution:
It’s important to note that cortisol is a complex hormone with both positive and negative effects, and a certain level of cortisol is necessary for the body’s normal functioning. The goal is to maintain a balanced cortisol level that supports overall health and well-being. If you suspect your cortisol levels are causing health issues, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare professional for guidance and personalized recommendations.
Cortisol is one of the least understood hormones in our body and keeping it balance at all times requires constant supplementation, diet and lifestyle changes.
Tongkat Ali supplements may contribute to a balanced cortisol levels as the benefits of lowering cortisol have significant impact to your overall well-being.
For optimal results and best health gains, always use clinically tested Tongkat Ali supplements with standardized hot water extract. It works better to regulate your cortisol without any trade- offs to your testosterone levels and other hormones.
Naressa Khan contributes regularly on AKARALI. As a researcher and investigative journalist, Naressa is all about creating, deconstructing, and reassembling meaningful content through words and facts. With this approach always in mind, she eagerly explores the nuances in life via the aspects of lifestyle, culture, travel, health, and wellness in Malaysia .
Our articles are third party reviewed by our panel of experts and medical advisors to ensure the facts are accurate and credible. These are validated against multiple source references which include but not limited to research studies, peer-reviewed journals, pre-clinical studies, clinical tests and other credible publications.
Our panel of medical advisors and experts are highly experienced in their individual fields. However, they do not provide any medical advice or recommendations arising from content published in this article.
Disclaimer:
The content published on this website is for educational purposes and should not be viewed, read, or seen as a prescription or constitute any form of medical advice. We recommend you consult your nearest GP or doctors before consuming Tongkat Ali or any products which contain Tongkat Ali. For further information, kindly refer to our Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) for more information.
