Tongkat Ali and Hormonal Balance in Women: Supporting Vitality the Stronger, Better, Younger Way

Tongkat Ali (Eurycoma longifolia) is a botanical traditionally used in Southeast Asia as part of wider wellbeing practices. In modern nutrition, it is often discussed in relation to energy, resilience, and hormonal balance. While it is commonly associated with male vitality, Tongkat Ali is increasingly explored for its potential role in supporting women’s overall wellbeing, particularly during periods of stress or fatigue.

Rather than acting as a hormone or medication, Tongkat Ali is best understood as a plant compound that may support the body’s natural regulatory systems, which aligns with a long-term approach to feeling stronger, better, and younger through balance rather than stimulation.

How Tongkat Ali Acts in the Body

Tongkat Ali does not contain testosterone and does not function as a hormone. Research suggests that its effects are indirect and relate primarily to the way the body manages stress and hormone availability.

Supporting the Stress Response

Chronic stress is associated with elevated cortisol levels, which may interfere with normal hormonal signalling in both men and women. Elevated cortisol can influence energy levels, mood, and the body’s ability to maintain hormonal equilibrium.

Compounds found in Tongkat Ali have been studied for their potential role in supporting a balanced stress response. By helping the body adapt to stress, Tongkat Ali may indirectly support the environment in which normal hormone production and regulation occur.

This stress-modulating role is particularly relevant for women seeking sustained energy and resilience as part of a healthy, active lifestyle.

Hormone Availability Rather Than Hormone Production

Testosterone circulates in the body in both bound and unbound forms, with only a small fraction being biologically active at any time. Some studies suggest that Tongkat Ali may influence how testosterone is bound in the bloodstream, potentially supporting the proportion that remains available for normal physiological function.

Importantly, this does not imply excessive increases in testosterone levels. Instead, Tongkat Ali is generally discussed in the context of supporting hormonal efficiency and balance, rather than driving hormone levels beyond their normal physiological range.

Supporting the HPA Axis

In women, testosterone is produced in smaller quantities than in men and is largely derived from the adrenal glands. These glands are part of the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis, which plays a central role in managing stress and energy regulation.

Tongkat Ali has been studied for its potential role in supporting healthy HPA axis function. A well-regulated stress response may contribute to more stable energy levels, improved resilience, and overall vitality.

The Role of Testosterone in Women

Although often labelled a “male hormone,” testosterone is an essential hormone for women when present in appropriate amounts. It contributes to:

• Normal libido and sexual wellbeing

• Maintenance of muscle and bone tissue

• Cognitive sharpness and motivation

• Physical vitality and exercise response

Very low testosterone levels in women have been associated with reduced energy, low mood, and decreased physical drive. However, balance is key, and optimal wellbeing depends on hormonal harmony rather than excess.

What Women May Experience

When used at appropriate doses, Tongkat Ali is generally associated with gradual and subtle effects rather than dramatic changes.

Some women report:

• Improved energy and motivation

• Better tolerance to mental and physical stress

• A greater sense of drive and vitality

• Enhanced overall wellbeing

Individual responses vary, and Tongkat Ali should not be viewed as a treatment for hormonal conditions or a substitute for medical care.

Safety and Responsible Use

Tongkat Ali is not suitable for everyone. Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should avoid its use. Those with hormone-sensitive conditions or existing medical concerns should consult a qualified healthcare professional before using supplements containing Tongkat Ali.

Food supplements should always be used as part of a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle.

A Stronger, Better, Younger Approach to Wellbeing

Tongkat Ali does not override the body’s natural systems. Instead, it is best understood as a botanical that may support the body’s ability to regulate stress and maintain hormonal balance over time.

For women, this makes Tongkat Ali relevant to a longevity-focused lifestyle aimed at sustaining energy, resilience, and vitality — supporting the goal of feeling stronger, better, and younger, not through extremes, but through balance and consistency.

References (for educational purposes)

1. Talbott, S. M., Talbott, J. A., George, A., & Pugh, M. (2013). Effect of Tongkat Ali on stress hormones and psychological mood state in moderately stressed subjects. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, 10(1), 28.

2. Ismail, S. B., Wan Mohammad, W. M. Z., George, A., et al. (2012). Randomized clinical trial on the use of Eurycoma longifolia for quality of life and wellbeing. Phytotherapy Research, 26(2), 246–251.

3. Rehman, S. U., Choe, K., & Yoo, H. H. (2016). Review on a traditional herbal medicine, Eurycoma longifolia Jack. Molecules, 21(3), 331.

4. European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). General principles on food supplements and botanical preparations.

5. Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA). Guidance on borderline products and food supplements.

Important Notice

This article is provided for general educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Statements are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease, in accordance with UK MHRA and EFSA regulations.