Tongkat Ali 101 Guide: What Is It and Can It Help Treat Erectile Dysfunction

What is Tongkat Ali?

Tongkat Ali, also known as Eurycoma longifolia, is a herbal plant native to Southeast Asia, including Malaysia and Indonesia. It's been used for centuries as a traditional medicine to improve male sexual health, treat erectile dysfunction, and enhance physical performance. The active ingredients in tongkat ali are believed to be quassinoids, which have been shown to have anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, and aphrodisiac effects.

The Link Between Low Testosterone And Erectile Dysfunction

Low testosterone levels can lead to a decrease in sexual desire and difficulty achieving and maintaining an erection. In fact, research has shown that up to 25% of men with erectile dysfunction also have low testosterone levels. The connection between low testosterone and erectile dysfunction is complex, and there are several factors that contribute to this link.

One of the main factors is the role of testosterone in the production of nitric oxide, a compound that plays a critical role in achieving and maintaining an erection. Testosterone helps to stimulate the production of nitric oxide, which relaxes the smooth muscle in the penis, allowing for increased blood flow and an erection.

Low testosterone levels can also contribute to the development of other medical conditions that can cause erectile dysfunction, such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Additionally, lifestyle factors, such as smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, can further exacerbate the connection between low testosterone and erectile dysfunction.

Can Tongkat Ali Help Treat Erectile Dysfunction?

Tongkat ali has been touted as a natural testosterone booster, and some studies have suggested that it may be effective in increasing testosterone levels in men. One study published in the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition found that men who supplemented with tongkat ali extract for eight weeks saw a significant increase in testosterone levels compared to a placebo group. Another study published in the Journal of Andrology showed that tongkat ali supplementation for six months improved sperm quality and increased testosterone levels in infertile men.

Several studies have investigated the potential of Tongkat Ali as an ED treatment. A 2012 study published in the Journal of Sexual Medicine found that Tongkat Ali extract improved erectile function in men with mild to moderate ED. Another study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology in 2015 reported that Tongkat Ali improved libido and sexual performance in male rats.

However, more research is needed to confirm the efficacy of Tongkat Ali in treating ED in humans. It is important to note that Tongkat Ali should not be used as a substitute for medical treatment for ED without consulting a healthcare professional.

Alternative ED Treatments Available In Singapore

Here are some of the most common ED treatments available in Singapore:

1. Prescription Oral Medication

An effective ED treatment for many men, oral medication like Viagra, Cialis or Tadalafil are often prescribed as a first line of treatment.

These medications are known as phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors (PDE5 inhibitors).They help to restrict the enzyme PDE5 which degrades cGMP, a molecule that relaxes the muscle tissues in the body. By inhibiting PDE5, these ED medications are able to relax the muscles present in the blood vessel walls. This ultimately leads to an improved blood flow where you need it most; your penis.

Contrary to popular belief, ED medication like Viagra, Cialis or Tadalafil won't magically increase your sex drive or cause you to get random erection after you take it. They will still need you to be aroused in order for you to get hard. Thankfully for most healthy men, taking ED medication will help make getting an erection a much easier task.

It is possible that these ED medication can cause mild side effects like:

• Headaches
• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Chest Pains
• Flushing
• Indigestion
• Nasal Congestion

Unfortunately, you will not be able to purchase any oral ED medication over-counter-counter. You will need to see a doctor for a prescription.

2. Penile Injections

If prescription ED medication is not working or unsuitable for you, there are alprostadil injections that can be administered directly into the penis. These injections work by expanding your blood vessels, which increases the blood flow to your penis.

These penile injections can quickly produce an erection, which can then last up to an hour.

It is possible that penile injections can cause side effects like prolonged erection, mild bleeding, and in rare cases, the formation of fibrous tissues at and around the injection site.

3. Penile Implants

If other ED treatments are found not to be effective, penile implants might be recommended by your doctor. This ED treatment involves surgically inserting a small tube on both sides of your penis. These tubes can then be pumped with air to help erect your penis.

4. Suppositories

Alprostadil urethral suppository involves inserting a small alprostadil suppository into the tip of your penis. The medication gets absorbed by the urethral wall, which then produces an erection that can last up to an hour.

Alprostadil urethral suppository can cause side effects like pain, burning sensation in the penis, and minor bleeding.

5. Vacuum Restriction Devices (Penis Pump)

Vacuum restriction devices (also known as a penis pump) can be prescribed to treat ED. A hollow tube is placed over the penis and then connected to a pump (either operated by hand or battery).

The pumping will draw blood towards the penis due to the pressure created by the vacuum. When a tension rubber ring is placed around the base of the penis, the penis pump can produce an erection that lasts up to 30 minutes.

6. Talk Therapy

While ED medication like Sildenafil Citrate or Tadalafil works to address the physiological causes of ED, they will not be able to treat your depression, anxiety or stress.

Some methods to help psychological issues, including psychological causes of ED, include cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) which is facilitated by a therapist. If not, some relaxation methods that you can try at home include breathing exercises, meditation and guided imagery, which may help to relieve some symptoms of anxiety, stress and depression.