DIRECTIONS FOR USE

Product: AKARALI® Tongkat Ali Root Extract Capsule (Eurycoma longifolia Jack)

 

PRODUCT DESCRIPTION

AKARALI® Tongkat Ali Root Extract is a standardised hot-water root extract derived from Eurycoma longifolia Jack, a plant indigenous to the tropical rainforests of Southeast Asia, most notably Malaysia. Each capsule of AKARALI® contains 200 mg of standardised aqueous Tongkat Ali root extract.

This product is a food supplement and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or medical condition. It is not a medicinal product and has not been assessed by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) for medicinal purposes.

 

TRADITIONAL AND INTENDED USE

Eurycoma longifolia has a well-established history of traditional use in Southeast Asian ethnobotany as a general health tonic and adaptogenic aid. In the context of food supplementation, it is commonly used to support:

  • General vitality, vigour, and physical energy levels
  • Healthy hormonal balance, including support for normal testosterone levels in adult males
  • Sexual well-being and libido in both men and women
  • Psychological well-being, including mood, tension management, and the body's adaptive response to physical and mental stress
  • Athletic performance, including support for muscle endurance and recovery in physically active individuals
  • Cognitive clarity and reduction of fatigue

These uses are informed by a growing body of peer-reviewed human clinical trials, preclinical research, and extensive traditional use, though the evidence base is still developing. Individual results may vary.

 

RECOMMENDED DIRECTIONS FOR USE

Adults aged 18 years and over:

Take one (1) capsule (200 mg) orally per day, preferably in the morning or early afternoon with a full glass of water (at least 200 ml).

For individuals seeking enhanced support, the dose may be increased to two (2) capsules (400 mg) per day, taken either as a single morning dose or divided into two doses (one in the morning, one at midday), based on personal tolerance and in consultation with a healthcare professional.

Do not exceed two (2) capsules (400 mg) per day unless otherwise directed by a qualified healthcare professional.

Best practice guidance:

  • Take on an empty stomach or at least 30 minutes before a meal to support optimal absorption of active compounds.
  • Consistent daily use over a minimum period of four (4) to eight (8) weeks is generally advised before assessing the full benefit of supplementation, as the bioactive compounds in Eurycoma longifolia are understood to act cumulatively over time.
  • Some individuals practise cyclical supplementation (e.g., five days on, two days off; or four weeks on, one week off) to maintain the body's natural hormonal sensitivity. There is currently no definitive clinical evidence mandating cycling, however, this approach is considered a reasonable precautionary practice, particularly during extended supplementation. Consult a healthcare professional for personalised guidance.

 

IMPORTANT: FOOD SUPPLEMENT NOTICE

This product is a food supplement intended to complement a healthy, balanced diet and lifestyle. It is not a substitute for a varied diet, nor is it intended to replace any prescribed medicinal treatment. The functional claims associated with this product have not been formally evaluated by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) or the UK Food Standards Agency (FSA) in the context of authorised health claims under UK retained legislation. This product should not be used as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

 

CONTRAINDICATIONS

Do not use this product if any of the following apply to you:

  • Pregnancy: The safety of Eurycoma longifolia supplementation during pregnancy has not been established in human clinical studies. Use is contraindicated in pregnant women.
  • Breastfeeding (lactation): Insufficient data exist to confirm the safety of this supplement during breastfeeding. Use is contraindicated in women who are breastfeeding.
  • Children and adolescents under 18 years of age: This product is not intended for use in persons under 18 years of age. Safety and efficacy in paediatric populations have not been established.
  • Hormone-sensitive conditions: Individuals with a diagnosed or suspected hormone-sensitive condition — including but not limited to prostate cancer, testicular cancer, male breast cancer, endometriosis, uterine fibroids, or other androgen- or oestrogen-sensitive neoplasms — should not use this product without prior medical consultation, as Eurycoma longifolia may modulate endogenous testosterone levels.
  • Confirmed allergy or hypersensitivity to Eurycoma longifolia or any listed excipients.

 

PRECAUTIONS AND SPECIAL WARNINGS

Consult your general practitioner (GP), pharmacist, or qualified healthcare professional before commencing use of this supplement if any of the following apply:

  • Liver disease or hepatic impairment: A small number of case reports have documented instances of hepatotoxicity (liver injury) associated with Eurycoma longifolia supplementation. Individuals with pre-existing liver conditions, including hepatitis, cirrhosis, or elevated hepatic enzymes, should seek medical advice prior to use and monitor liver function during supplementation. Discontinue use and seek medical attention immediately if you develop jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes), dark urine, abdominal pain, or unexplained nausea and vomiting.
  • Renal disease or kidney impairment: Eurycoma longifolia undergoes renal excretion. Individuals with chronic kidney disease (CKD) or compromised renal function should use this supplement with caution and only under medical supervision.
  • Cardiovascular disease: Eurycoma longifolia may have mild effects on heart rate and blood pressure at higher doses. Individuals with a history of cardiac arrhythmia, hypertension, congestive heart failure, or other significant cardiovascular conditions should consult their GP before use.
  • Diabetes mellitus or impaired glucose regulation: Preclinical evidence suggests that Eurycoma longifolia may lower blood glucose levels. Individuals with type 1 or type 2 diabetes, or those with impaired fasting glucose, should monitor blood glucose levels carefully during supplementation and consult their healthcare provider.
  • Immunocompromised individuals: Eurycoma longifolia has been associated with immunostimulatory activity, which may be clinically relevant in individuals receiving immunosuppressive therapies (e.g., post-organ transplant patients, individuals with autoimmune conditions). Seek medical guidance prior to use.
  • Sleep apnoea: Use with caution. Stimulatory properties at higher doses may exacerbate sleep-disordered breathing.
  • History of anxiety disorders or mood disorders: Higher doses may, in some individuals, increase alertness and elevate adrenal output, which could aggravate pre-existing anxiety or agitation.
  • Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) monitoring: Men undergoing PSA screening for prostate health should inform their clinician of Tongkat Ali supplementation, as the androgenic activity of this supplement may potentially influence PSA test interpretation.

 

POTENTIAL DRUG INTERACTIONS

Eurycoma longifolia has been shown in pharmacokinetic studies to inhibit hepatic cytochrome P450 (CYP) enzymes, particularly CYP3A4, which is involved in the metabolism of approximately 50% of commonly prescribed pharmaceutical agents. This may result in altered plasma concentrations of co-administered medications. Inform your GP or pharmacist before use if you are taking any prescription or over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, particularly the following:

Avoid concurrent use or seek medical advice:

  • Immunosuppressants (e.g., ciclosporin, tacrolimus, mycophenolate mofetil, azathioprine, methotrexate, etanercept, adalimumab, infliximab, leflunomide, everolimus, basiliximab): Eurycoma longifolia may potentiate immunosuppressive effects and increase the risk of infection. Concomitant use should be avoided or managed under close medical supervision.
  • Anticoagulant and antiplatelet agents (e.g., warfarin, apixaban, rivaroxaban, clopidogrel): Potential for altered coagulation parameters; monitor INR if applicable.

Use with caution and inform your healthcare provider:

  • Antidiabetic agents (e.g., metformin, glipizide, glimepiride, miglitol, insulin): Eurycoma longifolia may potentiate hypoglycaemic effects, increasing the risk of hypoglycaemia (low blood sugar). Regular blood glucose monitoring is advised.
  • Antihypertensive agents (e.g., ACE inhibitors, beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers, angiotensin receptor blockers): A pharmacokinetic study demonstrated that Tongkat Ali water-based extract may reduce the bioavailability of propranolol and may amplify blood pressure-lowering effects. Monitor blood pressure if combining with antihypertensives.
  • Hormonal therapies (including testosterone replacement therapy, anabolic steroids, oestrogen, or oral contraceptives): Eurycoma longifolia may have additive or synergistic endocrine effects. Combined use should be discussed with a prescribing clinician.
  • Stimulant medications or supplements (e.g., caffeine-containing products, ADHD medications, sympathomimetics): May have additive stimulatory effects, including increased heart rate or blood pressure.
  • Antidepressants (SSRIs, SNRIs, MAOIs): No formal interaction studies have been published; however, caution is advised given the potential influence of Eurycoma longifolia on cortisol and adrenal function.

This list is not exhaustive. Always disclose all medicines and supplements to your healthcare provider.

 

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

Eurycoma longifolia supplementation is generally well-tolerated at the recommended doses in clinical trials. However, as with any food supplement, adverse reactions may occur in some individuals. The following side effects have been reported:

Common (may affect up to 1 in 10 users):

  • Mild gastrointestinal discomfort, including abdominal pain, nausea, dyspepsia (indigestion), bloating, or constipation
  • Increased energy levels or mild restlessness, particularly when taken in the afternoon or evening
  • Increased libido (may be considered a desired effect for some users)

Uncommon (may affect up to 1 in 100 users):

  • Difficulty sleeping or transient insomnia, particularly at doses above 200 mg or when taken late in the day
  • Mild anxiety, irritability, or agitation
  • Headache
  • Mild elevation in heart rate or blood pressure

Rare (may affect up to 1 in 1,000 users):

  • Elevated body temperature (thermogenic response) particularly in warm climates or during physical exertion

Very rare (frequency not known from available data):

  • Hepatotoxicity (liver injury): Discontinue use immediately and seek medical attention if you develop signs of liver injury, including jaundice, dark-coloured urine, right upper abdominal pain, or significant nausea and vomiting.

If you experience any adverse reaction not listed above, or if any known side effect becomes severe or persistent, discontinue use and consult a healthcare professional or pharmacist. You may also report adverse reactions to the MHRA Yellow Card scheme at: yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk

 

PRODUCT QUALITY AND ADULTERATION WARNING

The market for Eurycoma longifolia supplements includes products of variable quality. Studies have identified instances of heavy metal contamination (mercury and lead) in improperly sourced herbal preparations, as well as undisclosed adulteration with pharmaceutical compounds including sildenafil analogues (substances closely resembling prescription erectile dysfunction medicines).

AKARALI® products are manufactured under strict quality assurance conditions to mitigate these risks. Purchase Tongkat Ali supplements only from reputable, verified sources. Do not use any product that does not provide full ingredient disclosure, standardisation information, or third-party quality testing documentation.

 

STORAGE

Store in a cool, dry place below 25°C, away from direct sunlight, moisture, and heat. Keep the lid tightly closed after use. Do not store in the bathroom or near a kitchen sink.

 

KEEP OUT OF REACH OF CHILDREN

This product is intended for adult use only. Store in a secure location away from children and adolescents under the age of 18 years.

 

IN CASE OF OVERDOSE OR ACCIDENTAL INGESTION

If you suspect that more than the recommended dose has been consumed, particularly by a child, seek medical advice immediately or contact the NHS 111 service. You may also contact the National Poisons Information Service (NPIS) via NHS 111 for urgent guidance.

 

DISCLAIMER

This food supplement is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. The information provided in these Directions for Use is for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice. Individual results from supplementation may vary. If you have a pre-existing medical condition, are taking prescribed medications, or are under the care of a healthcare provider, always seek professional medical advice before commencing any new food supplement regimen.

 

AKARALI® is a registered trademark in the United Kingdom. For further enquiries on product information and use, you may contact our customer helpline by emailing us at alex@akarali.com or visit: akarali.co.uk for more information