What Is Tongkat Ali Extract?
Tongkat Ali extract is a herbal remedy extracted from the roots of the Tongkat Ali plant, which grows in the wild in some South East Asian countries such as Indonesia. The roots are believed to have the highest concentration of the active ingredient that gives this herb its properties and benefits. Tongkat Ali is also available in powder form. The leaves, barks, and roots are also sold in South East Asian countries. The extract has a higher concentration of the desired constituents than the powder or the parts in whole.
To prepare the Tongkat Ali extract, the roots are harvested by digging holes and uprooting, cleaned, dried, chipped and then soaked in water or alcohol. The solvent is then evaporated to leave flakes, which are milled to form a highly concentrated extract in powder form. The best extract for health is the one prepared using water as the solvent in the extraction process. Since this powder is very bitter to take directly, it is sold in from of capsules that make it easier to swallow.
The Potency of Tongkat Ali Extracts
The herb contains some active chemicals that give it its unique properties and cause its benefits. Scientists believe that these active ingredients in the extract prevent the brain from inhibiting the release of the male hormone testosterone when it reaches the natural level. This naturally raises the level of Testosterone in the body and causes increased energy, increased sexual libido, and increased muscle gain. Some of the active ingredients also have medicinal properties including anti-cancer, anti-malaria, and fever relieving properties.
The potency refers to the strength or concentration of the active constituents of the herb in the extract. It depends on the amount of roots grounded to extract the active ingredients that give the herb its medicinal, sexual enhancing and other benefits. It is expressed in ratio form and the most common strengths include the 1: 50 potency considered the regular strength, 1: 100 and 1: 200, which is considered the strongest and most effective in causing the desired effect in a short time and without taking too many pills.
Manufacturers use these potency values to market their products as effective in offering the desired results fast. However, since there is no scientific standard on what level of the active ingredients each extract strength should contain, it is hard to verify whether these claims are true or even have one single correct dosage. Different manufacturers and supplies also follow different extraction processes. The best way to buy a high quality Tongkat Ali extract is to buy from reliable manufacturers who have certified test results.