Tell me more about Tongkat Ali and its effects.

Andrew Huberman discusses the effects of Tongkat Ali in several clips:

• Increases Free Testosterone and Luteinizing Hormone: In blood work, Tongkat Ali showed an increase in free testosterone and a slight increase in luteinizing hormone. It can also slightly increase Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), especially in cases with high sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG) levels, which binds androgens and estrogens. However, its effect on SHBG appears more substantial in individuals with abnormally high levels of this protein 1.

• Boosts Libido: Tongkat Ali has been reported to increase libido and sexual function. This is partially due to its ability to lower sex hormone binding globulin, making more testosterone available in its unbound form. Although some studies provide evidence for this effect, the extent of the impact can vary among individuals 2.

• Mechanisms of Action: Besides influencing SHBG, Tongkat Ali acts on aromatase (though weakly), which may have implications for estrogen metabolism. It might also behave as a non-selective estrogen receptor modifier, potentially decreasing negative feedback inhibition of estradiol and further increasing testosterone 3.

  • 

    1

    Hormonal Effects of Tongkat Ali

    01:19:19
    
  • 

    2

    Boosting Libido Naturally

    02:25:58
    
  • 

    3

    Tonga Ali Insights

    01:47:02
    
  • 

    4

    Testosterone Insights

    01:40:57
    
  • 

    5

    Fertility and Hormones

    03:16:34
    

• General Well-being: Described as mild libido enhancer and an energy booster, Tongkat Ali can increase feelings of well-being when taken in appropriate dosages. Dr. Huberman typically uses 400 mg a day, early in the day, due to its mild stimulant effects 4.

• Different from Exogenous Hormones: It's important to differentiate the effects of Tongkat Ali from exogenous hormones (like testosterone from external sources), which can suppress endogenous production. Supplements like Tongkat Ali are not known to significantly disrupt natural hormone production at normal dosages and, in fact, are expected to support it 5.

It's key to consult a healthcare provider before beginning any new supplement regimen, even those mentioned on the Huberman Lab, and to consider both objective blood work and subjective experiences when evaluating their effects.