<em>Eurycoma longifolia</em> (Jack) Improves Serum Total Testosterone in Men: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Clinical Trials

Abstract

Background and Objectives: Male hypogonadism is a clinical disorder characterized by reduced serum testosterone in men. Although treatment using herbal medicines, including Eurycoma longifolia, has been investigated, the benefits remain unclear. This study aims to investigate the efficacy of E. longifolia as a sole intervention to increase testosterone levels in males. Materials and Methods: We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials (RCTs) according to the PRISMA guidelines. Relevant articles were retrieved from the databases PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane, Ovid/Embase, and Google Scholar. Results: After literature screening, a total of nine studies was included in the systematic review. Five RCTs were included in the meta-analysis. A significant improvement in total testosterone levels after E. longifolia treatment was mostly reported in both healthy volunteers and hypogonadal men. The random model effect revealed a significant increase (SMD = 1.352, 95% CI 0.565 to 2.138, p = 0.001) in the total testosterone levels in men receiving E. longifolia supplementation, which was confirmed in the hypogonadism subgroup. Conclusions: This systematic review and meta-analysis of the literature supports the possible use of E. longifolia supplementation for enhancing testosterone production. Although more research is required before its use in clinical practice, this may represent a safe and promising therapeutic option, particularly in hypogonadal men.

Keywords

• <i>Eurycoma longifolia</i>
• Tongkat ali
• testosterone
• male
• hypogonadism