Male Supplements: Risks, Lies, & What You Actually Need

Understanding Tongkat Ali and Nausea

Tongkat ali is an herbal supplement commonly used to boost testosterone levels and enhance libido in men. However, nausea is one possible side effect of taking this supplement. Let's explore the causes of tongkat ali nausea and tips to prevent it.

What is Tongkat Ali?

Tongkat ali, also known as Malaysian ginseng or longjack, comes from the roots of the Eurycoma longifolia tree native to Southeast Asia. Traditionally, it has been used as an aphrodisiac and herbal medicine.

Today, tongkat ali is popular among older men looking to restore normal testosterone levels, increase energy, build muscle mass, and improve sexual health. The active compounds like eurycomanone and polysaccharides are thought to stimulate the testes and hypothalamus.

Benefits of Tongkat Ali

Research shows promising effects of tongkat ali for:

• Raising low testosterone
• Enhancing libido and erection strength
• Building lean muscle mass with exercise
• Boosting sperm quality in infertile men
• Reducing age-related stress
• Improving well-being and quality of life

Can Tongkat Ali Supplements Cause Nausea?

Yes, nausea and stomach upset are common side effects associated with tongkat ali usage. Anywhere from 2-5% of tongkat ali users report experiencing nausea or gastrointestinal issues from the supplement.

Reasons You Might Feel Sick from Tongkat Ali

There are a few reasons why some people develop nausea or vomiting when taking tongkat ali supplements:

• High potency - Products with a very high concentration of tongkat ali could irritate the digestive tract.
• Empty stomach - Taking this supplement without food allows it to aggravate stomach lining.
• Dehydration - Inadequate fluid intake prevents quick excretion from the body.
• Added ingredients - Fillers, preservatives, or dyes in lower quality products may cause nausea.
• Heavy metals - Contamination from environmental toxins during cultivation can induce nausea.

Individual Factors Influencing Nausea Risk

Additionally, certain individuals tend to be more prone to nausea from tongkat ali intake:

• People with stomach ulcers, IBS, or digestive disorders
• Those taking anti-depressant or blood pressure medications
• Men with existing migraine, headache, or nausea issues
• Users taking high doses for the first time

Tips to Prevent Nausea When Taking Tongkat Ali

If you want to use tongkat ali but would like to mitigate nausea risk, here are some useful tips:

1. Start with Lower Potency

Choose an extract dosed at 100-200mg per capsule your first time using tongkat ali. This allows your body to become accustomed to the herb slowly.

2. Take with Food

Never take tongkat ali supplements on an empty stomach as this can definitely trigger feelings of sickness. Always take this supplement alongside a meal.

3. Stay Hydrated

Drink plenty of water when taking tongkat ali capsules to dilute the compound concentration passing through your system.

4. Follow Recommended Cycles

Take breaks from tongkat ali when hitting the top end of dosage guidelines. Cycle it 5 days on, 2 days off or take it for 3 weeks then stop for 1 week.

5. Pick Reputable Brands

Carefully source supplements from transparent, reputable manufacturers following Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP).

6. Include Ginger

Ginger root powder capsules can ease digestion and prevent supplement-related nausea.

Dealing with Persistent Tongkat Ali Nausea

Even if taking precautions, some will still experience ongoing queasiness or vomiting from tongkat ali supplementation. If nausea persists longer than 3-5 days or impairs your daily life, promptly call your doctor.

They will review your diet, lifestyle, and any medications contributing to nausea. Lab testing can check for underlying issues triggering your nausea like gastritis, ulcers, or liver disease.

Your physician may advise temporarily stopping tongkat ali or switching to a gentler herbal testosterone booster if your nausea remains unrelenting.

The Bottom Line

Minor stomach upset is fairly common when taking standard doses of tongkat ali extract. However, severe or persistent nausea should warrant medical attention.

The best way to avoid significant nausea issues is to take tongkat ali properly - with food, sufficient hydration, conservative initial doses, high-quality brands, and another nausea-easing natural herb like ginger.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.