The Claim

Tongkat Ali supplementation for four weeks has no significant effect on depression, vigor, or fatigue levels in moderately stressed adults.

Source: Effect of Tongkat Ali on stress hormones and psychological mood state in moderately stressed subjects

What the research says

Challenges is higher

Challenge is ahead, but a single strong supporting study can change this.

Supports
0score
Challenges
56score

These are independent scores, not a percentage. Higher-grade studies count more, so a single strong opposing study can outweigh several weaker ones.

Description
1 study reviewed
In plain English

Taking Tongkat Ali for four weeks does not change levels of depression, energy, or fatigue in adults with moderate stress.

See the scientific wording

Tongkat Ali supplementation does not significantly improve depression, vigor, or fatigue in moderately stressed adults over four weeks, indicating that its mood effects are selective and do not broadly enhance all aspects of psychological well-being.

Why this might work

Tongkat Ali increases free testosterone by freeing it from binding proteins and boosts production of its precursors, while also lowering cortisol levels. These hormonal changes improve certain mood states like tension and anger, but do not change feelings of sadness, low energy, or tiredness because the brain regions and chemical systems controlling those states are not affected by this hormone shift.

Supported mechanismbased on 1 study

What the research says

1 study
  1. Study: Effect of Tongkat Ali on stress hormones and psychological mood state in moderately stressed subjects

    The study found that taking Tongkat Ali for four weeks made people feel less tense, angry, or confused—but didn’t make them less sad, more energetic, or less tired. So yes, it only helps with some moods, not all.

Score breakdown, mechanism chain, raw evidence, ideal studies needed & 1 supporting studies

Fit Body Science verdict — we translate health claims into clear verdicts backed by peer-reviewed research.

Not medical advice. For informational purposes only. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making health decisions.