Tongkat Ali is a tree native to Malaysia, Thailand, and Indonesia. The part of the tree used medicinally is the root.
Why Do People Use Tongkat Ali?
Tongkat Ali was dubbed the "Asian Viagra" in a May 1999 report in the New Sunday Times.
It has been used in Malaysia for many years by men to increase sexual desire, libido, sexual performance and to treat erectile dysfunction.
So far, scientifica support for the claim that tongkat ali is lacking. Preliminary lab studies suggests that it may have some effect on the hormone testosterone. Testosterone is primarily responsible for the growth and development of male reproductive organs, including the penis, testicles, scrotum, prostate, and seminal vesicles. Normal testosterone levels maintain energy level, mood, fertility, and sexual desire.
Tongkat ali is also used by bodybuilders to increase muscle mass and strength due to its purported effects on testosterone.
Caveats
Reported side effects include insomnia, anxiety, and restlessness.
Because tongkat ali increases testosterone levels it should not be used by those with breast cancer or prostate cancer, diabetes mellitus, heart disease, kidney disease, liver disease, or sleep apnea.
Tongkat ali should not be used by people with weakened immune systems as some evidence suggests it may further weaken immune function. Tongkat ali should not be used by people taking immunosuppressant drugs.
Tongkat ali may decrease blood sugar levels and there is concern that it may interact with medications that affect blood sugar or insulin levels.
As with other supplements, tongkat ali hasn't been tested for safety in pregnant women, nursing mothers, children, and those with medical conditions or who are taking medications.
Maca (Lepidium Meyenii)
Maca Benefits
Maca root (Lepidium meyenii) has many health benefits. Known for their advanced knowledge of healing and the body’s connection with nature, the Incan civilization used the maca root in many of their natural remedies. According to ancient Incan history, the maca root was known to have special properties which were believed to enhance energy and stamina. It is also believed to increase the sexual desire and endurance. Maca is often termed as Peruvian Ginseng due to its natural stimulating qualities that are similar to the benefits found in the commonly known ginseng-related herbs.
The maca root can be found growing in the Andes Mountains, mainly in Peru. The environment which is deemed ideal for its growth is in uncongenial locations which are located high in the mountains. Maca flourishes in such climates due to its ability to thrive in spite of harsh temperatures and frost.
Maca is related to the mustard plant, and has similarities in appearance. The flowers of the maca resemble those of the mustard plant. It is not uncommon for farmers and /or those who are knowledgeable in horticulture to mistake the identity of either plant at first glance.
Medicinally, the part of the maca that holds the active nutrients is the flesh of its root. The nutritional contents of the maca root are impressive. The root or tuber is high in protein, natural sugars, iron, potassium, iodine, magnesium, calcium, and fiber. Due to maca’s high nutritional content, it is often referred to as having “superfood” properties.
Libido & Fertility
Culturally, the ancient Peruvians ingested this powerful root to boost the potency of the male libido. Its natural properties help to create an aphrodisiac-like response in men who have suffered from impotency, low sex-drive, and fertility problems. The maca root is known to improve the quality and quantity of sperm in men who have lower than normal sperm counts, which helps to increase the level of fertility.
Endurance
Athletically speaking, the main ingredients and naturally occurring substances in maca are becoming widely used by today’s amateur and professional athletes alike. The main action of this powerful superfood is to strengthen endurance and energy levels, which gives the athlete a natural advantage. Testosterone also seems to be increased as well.
Menopause
Over time, other uses for maca have also shown promising benefits to health such as relief of fatigue and the reduction of menopausal symptoms in women. One of the most troublesome symptoms of menopause is hot flashes. The active ingredients in the maca root appear to lessen the severity and frequency of hot flashes that occur due to hormonal changes in a woman’s body as they reach middle age. Maca root helps to bring back into balance the body’s natural hormone levels without the use of synthetic hormone replacements that are typical treatments for menopausal symptoms.
Menstruation
Menstrual problems that often plague women of child-bearing age such as cramping, heavy or irregular periods, as well as PMS, have found that the maca root alleviates many of the uncomfortable symptoms.
GUARANA
Guarana is a plant of the Amazon that is found in parts of Venezuela and Brazil. The berries of this plant have a number of health benefits, including the ability to burn fat and increase energy, among others. Today’s common use of guarana is in energy drinks and sports nutrition drinks due to its energizing effects. Be sure to consult your health-care provider for complete information about guarana and its effects.
