Tongkat ali: Everything you need to know (banned)

Tongkat Ali, also known as Eurycoma longifolia, Pasak Bumi (Indonesia), or "Malaysian ginseng," is a flowering plant native to countries such as Malaysia, Indonesia, and Thailand. For generations, its roots have played a part in traditional herbal practices in Southeast Asia.

While historically used in local cultures, Tongkat Ali is currently not approved for use in food supplements in the European Union and may be subject to legal restrictions in other countries. This article is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical or nutritional advice.

Botanical Background

• Botanical name: Eurycoma longifolia

• Family: Simaroubaceae

• Plant part traditionally used: Root

• Geographic origin: Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand

The root of Tongkat Ali is traditionally dried and sometimes brewed as a decoction. In some countries, it is incorporated into traditional tonics and herbal beverages.

Traditional Use

In indigenous and traditional medicine systems in Southeast Asia, Tongkat Ali has been used for generations. It is often associated with vitality and strength in folklore and has cultural significance among communities in the region.

Because of regulatory restrictions in the EU and other countries, any reference to therapeutic, hormonal, or performance-enhancing effects is not permitted unless scientifically substantiated and approved by relevant authorities.

Regulatory Status (Important)

• European Union: Tongkat Ali is not permitted as an ingredient in food supplements.

• The Netherlands (NVWA): Its sale as a supplement is prohibited.

• United States (FDA): It is not banned but remains unregulated, and no health claims are authorized.

If you are operating in the EU or UK, the marketing or promotion of Tongkat Ali for health use is illegal unless granted Novel Food approval or a health claim is authorized by EFSA.

Scientific Research and Interest

There is academic interest in Tongkat Ali's phytochemistry, particularly compounds like quassinoids (e.g. eurycomanone), flavonoids, and alkaloids. However, while preliminary studies have explored possible physiological interactions, these findings do not justify health claims or product marketing without regulatory approval.

Where You Might Encounter It

In regions where it is permitted, Tongkat Ali may appear in:

• Traditional decoctions or tonics

• Herbal wellness practices

• Ethnobotanical literature and historical records

In EU countries, Tongkat Ali should not be sold, marketed, or consumed as a supplement or food ingredient.

Final Note

Tongkat Ali is a botanical with a rich traditional heritage. However, its use is restricted in many jurisdictions, including the European Union, due to a lack of regulatory approval for food or supplement applications. It is crucial to stay informed and comply with the laws of your region.

If you have questions about ingredients, novel food regulations, or compliant formulations, feel free to ask — I can help you find suitable, legally approved alternatives for your region.