Malaysian Ginseng is a slender tree native to Malaysia, lower Burma, Thailand, and Indonesia. The root is employed as a traditional remedy for the treatment of malaria, high blood pressure, fevers, fatigue, loss of sexual desire, and impotence. In Malaysia, Malaysian Ginseng is the object of a sexual potency craze, an  ingredient found in over three hundred products, from herbal syrups to capsules to popular soft drinks. Malaysian Ginseng is everywhere, driving the lusty engine of steamy, equatorial Southeast Asia.

I will travel pretty much anywhere to research a valuable medicinal plant, especially a bona fide aphrodisiac plant. In the instance of Malaysian Ginseng, the trail led me to the Malaysian peninsula, in a spectacular rainforest one million years old, to witness the harvesting of a root that is legendary among the peoples of Southeast Asia. Nobody knows how long Malaysian Ginseng has been employed for medicinal purposes, but its documented use dates back to the 1700’s. In the steaming hot rainforest, I watched four aboriginal Orang Asli natives hack a large Malaysian Ginseng root from the ground, using only simple hand tools. I marvelled at the hard labor often involved in harvesting plants for the herbal market.

The Big Testosterone Builder

Malaysian Ginseng root contains a plethora of beneficial compounds, including potent protective antioxidants which inhibit cellular aging. Other phytochemicals in Malaysian Ginseng demonstrate anti-viral, anti-malarial, and anti-cancer activity. Others combat high blood pressure, and quell dysentery. The root is a natural medicine chest.  But what excites most people about Malaysian Ginseng is that the root significantly boosts sex drive and function, in both men and women, by building testosterone. Agents identified as glycoproteins are believed to be the sex-promoting ingredients in the plant.

The foundation studies conducted on Malaysian Ginseng have been undertaken by former University Of Malaysia Professor Dr. Johari Saad PhD, who is called by many the King Of Malaysian Ginseng. Dr Johari found that when given a standardized Malaysian Ginseng extract containing 22% glycoproteins, animals copulate three to four times more frequently than normal. This is because testosterone levels in animals given Malaysian Ginseng increase three to four times on average, an astounding increase in the sex hormone most closely associated with libido.

Testosterone is the most important of the male sex hormones, which are known as androgens, and are produced in the gonads. In men, testosterone plays a key role in the development and maturity of male sex organs, the appearance of facial hair, deepening of voice, sexual desire and sexual behavior. In women, testosterone is the key to proactove sex drive, and is essential to pleasure. Testosterone produces erotic sensitivity of the clitoris, breasts and nipples, flipping the pleasure switch  on a woman’s erogenous zones. For both men and women, testosterone is the bingo chemical for sexual drive and desire.

The Sex Doctor

At the Human Reproduction Specialist Center in Kuala Lumpur, I met with Dr Ismail Tambi MD, one of the foremost experts on reproductive and sexual health in all of Southeast Asia. He is also the leading medical expert on the effects of standardized Malaysian Ginseng root extract on human subjects. In his work with men, Dr Tamby has found that use of Malaysian Ginseng extract significantly increases testosterone production. “In our work with men, we found that Malaysian Ginseng extract increased the serum level of testosterone considerably.” I asked Dr Tamby if the men experienced renewed sexual vitality, or heightened sexual desire. “Oh, yes, most definitely. The men found that Malaysian Ginseng boosted their sex drive quite a lot. I think that for low libido, Malaysian Ginseng extract is very valuable. I have seen this result for myself, and can say that this plant really works.” I asked Dr Tamby if the same would apply to women. “Yes,  certainly it would boost libido in women as well, as testosterone is essential to a woman’s sexual desire.”

Dr. Tamby conducted a study of thirty adult males of various ages, assessed their testosterone levels, and then gave them 100 mg of standardized Malaysian Ginseng extract daily.  The testosterone levels of all the subjects rose, from somewhat to a lot, depending on age. Dr Tamby’s study resulted in a 91% improvement in libido, a reported 73% improvement in sexual function, and an 82% psychological improvement relative to sex among the men who participated in the study. His work shows that Malaysian Ginseng can re-elevate the level of this important sex hormone. In this regard, Malaysian Ginseng proves a true sexual fountain of youth.

Using The Root

Malaysian Ginseng significantly boosts sex drive in men and women, and has a long history of use enhancing sexual function in men. The top Malaysian Ginseng experts in Malaysia recommend that men consume about 100 - 200 mg of Malaysian Ginseng extract daily, and women about 50 - 100 mg. Look for standardized Malaysian Ginseng extract with a 20 – 22% glycoprotein level. This is a remarkably effective herb with a very bright future.

The big news about Malaysian Ginseng for athletes is that the root significantly boosts testosterone, due most likely to compounds identified as glycoproteins. This discovery was made by Malaysian biochemist Dr. Johari Saad PhD , who is called by many the King Of Malaysian Ginseng.  Dr Johari found that when given Malaysian Ginseng extract, testosterone levels in animals increase by a factor of three to four times. In laboratory tests on human testicular tissue, Malaysian Ginseng extract increased the formation of testosterone fourfold. Testosterone is an androgen, and is produced in the gonads. Testosterone plays a key role in the development and maturity of male sex organs. Testosterone also stimulates metabolism, promotes lipogenesis, increases the formation of red blood cells, and accelerates muscle growth.  Women also produce testosterone, about 5 – 10% the amount produced in men.

From age thirty or so, blood levels of the hormone decline at a rate of about 2% per year. As testosterone decreases in the body, muscle tone, energy and sex drive all begin to decline. In both animals and humans, Malaysian Ginseng extract increases muscle mass. In a Malaysian study of men, half of the subjects ingested Malaysian Ginseng extract and half did not. In an eight week physical training program, the men who consumed Malaysian Ginseng extract experienced greater gains in muscle mass and strength than those who did not. Due to this significant discovery, a growing number of  Asian athletes and body builders now use Malaysian Ginseng extract as an androgen, to improve muscle size and strength, and to enhance sports performance. With  Malaysian Ginseng extract you can boost your testosterone back to a more youthful level.

Malaysian Ginseng extract also inhibits Sex Hormone Binding Globulin. By inhibiting this agent, more free testosterone remains in the blood. This additionally stems the aging process, improving energy and sexual function, helping to reduce body fat, and reducing risk factors associated with cardiovascular disease.

Malaysian Ginseng extract also greatly increases ATP production. ATP, or adenosine triphosphate, is the basic unit of energy in the body, responsible for keeping us alive and going. By increasing ATP, overall energy and vitality are increased. Most people want more energy, and Malaysian Ginseng provides it, without hyperstimulation, jittery nerves, or insomnia. This is the holy grail of human energy production, and is a valuable enough health benefit by itself to make Malaysian Ginseng an enduring superstar on the herbal stage.

Look for Malaysian Ginseng extract supplements standardized to approximately 22% glycoproteins. For men, 100 milligrams per day or more will give results. The dose is half that for women. Looking into a crystal ball of market futures, I predict that Malaysian Ginseng will become a monster in the sports field.

Written by: Chris Kilham Physical, Jan 2004

Numerous scientific studies have demonstrated Eurycoma longifolia (Malaysian Ginseng) effectiveness in enhancing sexual vitality and performance in men. Several publications based on scientific studies & medicinal reviews also reveal Eurycoma Longifolia (Malaysian Ginseng) effectiveness in increasing muscle strength and size.

From Doctor’s Desk: Malaysian Ginseng Helps Support Healthy Male Sexuality and Arousal.

Dr. Simon Chua,
Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences,
Wayne State University

In a preliminary study at the Reproductive Research Center in Kuala Lumpur , Malaysia , 30married men, aged31-52 years old, took MALAYSIAN GINSENG regularly for three consecutive weeks. Interviews indicated that 48% felt healthy, active and energized, and 40%felt increased sexual desire. The subjects showed an increased free testosterone index. Increased testosterone levels help improve libido, energy and muscle mass for bodybuilding. Their levels of DHEA, another critical steroid hormone, gradually increased from 26%after one week to 47% after three weeks. Most subjects demonstrated increased satisfaction in their sexual health and performance.

In addition, animal studies have shown that MALAYSIAN GINSENG may increase testosterone availability as well as libido in mice.

Source: Article from the book Molecular Biology of the Cell,
Published on: Sep 1, 2002

From Doctor’s Desk: Tongkat Aki Optimizes Male Sex Hormone Balance.

Dr. James Stoxen
(Article Based on a research conducted by his team of doctors)
Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Pharmacognosy,
University of Illinois, Chicago

The production of testosterone (the principal male-determining sex hormone) falls progressively from age 40. Experts call this "partial androgen deficiency of the aging male." Androgens are steroid hormones with specific effects on tissue growth (muscle, fat, skin, hair and others) and brain function. They play important roles in men and women, but are produced in much larger quantities in men. In men after puberty, the testicles produce most androgens, mainly as testosterone. It has been suggested that Malaysian Ginseng may block negative feedback to the hypo-thalamus and pituitary glands, so the body continues to produce testosterone at elevated levels.

Source: Chapter 39-a from the book Eureka Bioscience Collection ,
Published on: 3 rd Oct, 2003

Evaluation of the potency activity of aphrodisiac in Eurycoma Longifolia. Contributed by: Ang HH, Ikeda S, Gan EK.

School of Pharmaceutical Sciences,
University Science Malaysia , Minden ,
Penang , Malaysia

The butanol, methanol, water and chloroform extracts of the roots of Eurycoma longifolia were studied using various tests of potency of treated male rats. The results showed that E. longifolia produced a dose-dependent, recurrent and significant increase in the episodes of penile reflexes as evidenced by increases in quick flips, long flips and erections of the treated male rats during the 30 min observation period. These results provide further evidence that E. longifolia increases the aphrodisiac potency activity in treated animals.

Source: Journal index for medicine© 2001 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd,
Published on: Dec 2005.

Several tests were conducted on Malaysian Ginseng as an aphrodisiac plant in laboratories of Malaysia. Below are some important results derived by using Malaysian Ginseng on different male rats.

Effects of Eurycoma longifolia (Malaysian Ginseng) on the initiation of sexual performance of inexperienced castrated male rats.

Date: 2001 Oct;
Code: 24(5):437-40
Conducted by: Ang HH and Cheang HS., Yusof AP.
School of Pharmaceutical Sciences,
University Science Malaysia , Minden , 11800,
Penang , Malaysia.

Study objective: Effects of Eurycoma longifolia Jack (Malaysian Ginseng) on the initiation of sexual performance of inexperienced castrated male rats.

We studied the effects of Eurycoma longifolia Jack, commonly known as Malaysian Ginseng in Malaysia , on the initiation of sexual performance and the weights of sexual accessories in inexperienced castrated male rats. The doses of 200, 400 and 800 mg/kg body weight, which were extracted from E. longifolia, were orally administered to the rats twice daily for 10 days prior to the tests and continued throughout the test period. Testosterone was used as a positive control after injecting 15 mg/kg daily subcutaneously for 32 days. Results showed that E. longifolia produced a dose-dependent increase in sexual performance of the treated animals, but the E. longifolia groups showed lower sexual performance in mounting, intromission and ejaculation than the testosterone group. Further results also showed that E. longifolia promoted the growth of both ventral prostate and seminal vesicles as compared with the control, but the growth of sexual accessories at 800 mg/kg of butanol, methanol, water and chloroform fractions of E. longifolia was less than that of testosterone treated group. The present study therefore gives further evidence of the folk use of E. longifolia as an aphrodisiac.

PMID: 10803359 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Aphrodisiac evaluation in non-copulator male rats after chronic administration of Eurycoma longifolia.

Date: 2002 July
Code: 19B-0.1-(36w)
Conducted By: Ang HH & Ngai TH.
School of Pharmaceutical Sciences,
University of Science , Malaysia ,
Minden , Singapore.

Study Objective: Aphrodisiac evaluation in non-copulator male rats after chronic administration of Eurycoma longifolia.

The aphrodisiac effect of Eurycoma longifolia (0.5 g/kg) was evaluated in non-copulator male rats using an electrical cage. Fractions of E. longifolia decreased the hesitation time of non-copulator male rats, throughout the investigation period. Furthermore, it possessed a transient increase in the percentage of the male rats responding to the right choice, more than 50% of the male rats scored "right choice" after 3 weeks post-treatment and the effect became more prominent after 8 weeks post-treatment (only 40-50% of the control male rats responded to the right choice) using the electrical copulation cage. Hence, this study lends further support to the use of the plant by indigenous populations as a traditional medicine for its aphrodisiac property.

PMID: 11564133 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Sexual arousal in sexually sluggish old male rats after oral administration of Eurycoma longifolia.

Date: 2000 Jan
Code: Exp Anim;49(1):35-8
Conducted By: Ang HH, Lee KL, Kiyoshi M.
School of Pharmaceutical Sciences,
University Science Penang , Malaysia.

Study objectives: Sexual arousal in sexually sluggish old male rats after oral administration of Eurycoma longifolia.

Eurycoma longifolia commonly known as Malaysian Ginseng in Malaysia , has been used in Malaysia to increase male virility and sexual prowess. The objective of this study is to evaluate sexual arousal in sexually sluggish old male rats, 24 months old and retired breeders, receiving 200, 400, or 800 mg/kg of various fractions of E. longifolia, twice daily, for 10 days. Control rats received 3 ml/kg of normal saline. The aphrodisiac effect was monitored by the act of yawning and stretching because yawning, either alone or associated with stretching, is considered an ancestral vestige surviving throughout evolution that promotes sexual arousal. The results showed that 800 mg/kg of E. longifolia increased yawning by 50% and stretching by 16.7% in sexually sluggish old male rats, by 676-719% and 31-336%, respectively, in sexually active male rats, and by 22-44% and 75-100%, respectively, in middle aged, 9 months old and retired breeders. We conclude that the results of this study support the folk use of this plant as an aphrodisiac.

PMID: 15803965 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Effects of Eurycoma longifolia on levator ani muscle in both uncastrated and testosterone-stimulated castrated intact male rats.

Date: 2001 Aug
Code: Exp Anim; 15(4):265-8
Conducted By: Fundam Clin Pharmacol Malaysia.

Research objective: Effects of Eurycoma longifolia on levator ani muscle in both uncastrated and testosterone-stimulated castrated intact male rats.

It has been reported that Eurycoma longifolia commonly known as Malaysian Ginseng has gained notoreity as a symbol of man’s ego and strength by the Malaysian men because it increases male virility and sexual prowess during sexual activities. As such, the effects of 200, 400 and 800 mg/kg of butanol, methanol, water and chloroform fractions of E. longifolia were studied on the levator ani muscle in both uncastrated and testosterone-stimulated castrated intact male rats after dosing them for 12 consecutive weeks. Results showed that 800 mg/kg of butanol, methanol, water and chloroform fractions of E. longifolia significantly increased (p<0.05) the levator ani muscle to 58.56+/-1.22, 58.23+/-0.31, 60.21 +/-0.86 and 62.35 +/-0.98 mg/100 g body weight, respectively, when compared with the control (untreated) in the uncastrated intact male rats and 49.23+/-0.82, 52.23+/-0.36, 50.21+/-0.66 and 52.35+/-0.58 mg/100 g body weight, respectively, when compared to control (untreated) in the testosterone-stimulated castrated intact male rats. Hence, the pro-androgenic effect as shown by this study further supported the traditional use of this plant as an aphrodisiac.

PMID: 11693547 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Effect of Eurycoma longifolia on libido in middle-aged male rats.

Date: 2002 March
Code: USM-249-54. xNvL
Conducted By: Ang HH, Lee KL.University Science Malaysia , Minden , Penang , Malaysia
J Basic Clin Physiol Pharmacol

Study Objective: Effect of Eurycoma longifolia on libido in middle-aged male rats.

The effect of increasing doses of various fractions of Eurycoma longifolia extracts on libido was examined in middle-aged male rats. The results showed that a high dose (800 mg/kg) of all E. longifolia extracts significantly increased mount frequency (MF) (P < 0.05) over that of untreated controls, but had no effect on the frequency of intromission or ejaculation. Methanol, chloroform, water, and butanol fractions exhibited MF of 2.5 +/- 0.1, 2.6 +/- 0.3, 2.5 +/- 0.1 and 2.6 +/- 0.2, respectively, in adult, middle-aged male rats, and retired breeders versus 2.3 +/- 0.1 in untreated controls. This translated to a minor increase in MF of 8.7%, 13.0%, 8.7%, and 13.0% for these fractions, respectively, during the 20-minute observation period. The results of this study show that Eurycoma longifolia extracts can increase libido in middle-aged male rats.

Source: NATIONAL CENTRE FOR BIOTECHNOLOGY INFORMATION

The following report on a clinical trial on Malaysian Ginseng effectiveness as an aphrodisiac.

Source: The Singapore Straits Times, Feb 2003.

Early Results Show Men Being becomes More Virile After Taking Malaysian Ginseng

MEN may stand a better chance of boosting their performance in the bedroom by turning to help from a plant rather than exotic remedies.

Preliminary tests show that Malaysian Ginseng, an herbal aphrodisiac made from the root of a plant known by the same name, can add to a man’s libido and sexual prowess. Known as Pasak Bumi in Indonesia , Malaysian Ginseng in Malaysia , and also as Eurycoma longifolia, its scientific, Latin name, the plant grows all over South-east Asia.

Dr. Ismail Tambi, who heads the Human Reproduction Specialist Centre at Malaysia ’s National Population and Family Development Board, said that 30 healthy males between the ages of 31 and 52 were given two capsules of Malaysian Ginseng a day for three weeks.

They reported that their performances in bed had improved - erections were stronger and, in some cases, lasted longer. Overall, they felt more virile. Their levels of testosterone, the male hormone that plays a significant role in spurring desire and performance, doubled within three weeks. At the same time, the level of another hormone that inhibited sex fell. It is the root of Malaysian Ginseng that is made into a drug available in capsule, liquid and powder form.

But Dr. Ismail, who is here for the seventh Asian Congress of Sexology, told The Straits Times that this was just an initial trial. Starting next year, about 200 healthy males will be involved in a much bigger trial to determine if Malaysian Ginseng really does the trick. Malaysians spend about RM6 billion (S$2.8 billion) a year on potions and drugs to enhance their sexual performance and the Malaysian government is planning to invest in a trial that is estimated to cost RM 500,000.

The government wants to determine if this is an industry that can be nurtured and developed. While there are a few side-effects to using malaysian ginseng, such as headaches or flushing of the face, these fade away after a few days, said Dr. Ismail. But he warned that the medication, which is readily available in capsule, liquid and powder form, should be bought from a reputable source.

Source: The abstract number 007 of the clinical trial with healthy men can be read at the website of the British Journal of Sports Medicine : http://bjsm.bmjjournals.com

The British Journal of Sports Medicine reported that in a double-blind placebo controlled scientific trial, the use of Malaysian Ginseng extract caused a 5 % increase in lean body mass in the treatment group. On the other hand, no significant changes were observed in the placebo group. Among other interesting facts, the journal article states: "The mean arm circumference of the treatment group increased significantly by 1.8 cm after the supplementation, from 30.87 (1.88) to 32.67 (1.96) cm (p = 0.011), but there was no significant increase in the placebo group."

The Ergogenic effects of Malaysian Ginseng (Eurycoma Longifolia)

The following study was conducted by Prof. S. Hamzah & Dr. A. Yusof in association to the Department of Exercise Physiology, Sports Centre, University of Malaya , 50603 Kuala Lumpur , Malaysia . The conclusion drawn from these results proves that Malaysian Ginseng root extracts is highly effective in increasing muscle mass and strength.

Source: Abstract is taken from the website of British Journal of Sports Medicine. http://bjsm.bmj.com/cgi/content/full/37/5/464

Malaysian Ginseng, which contains quassinoids such as eurycomalacton, eurycomanon, and eurycomanol, has been reported to have aphrodisiac properties and to increase testosterone levels in men. Previous studies have established that the testosterone supplementation increases fat free mass, muscle strength, and muscle mass, which are important for physical function and athletic performance.

Thus, the objective of this study was to investigate the effect of the increase in testosterone levels, obtained by administration of Eurycoma longifolia, on body composition and muscle strength and size in man. Fourteen healthy men performed an intense strength training programme with initial load of 60% RM (2 sets of 10 repetitions with 1 minute rest between, for 10 stations) on alternate days for five weeks. Simultaneously, seven men were randomly selected to consume 100 mg/day Eurycoma longifolia water soluble extract, and seven men received placebo.

The intensity of the exercise was increased by 10% RM/week. Body composition, arm circumference, one repetition maximum (1 RM), and surface electromyography (sEMG) activity were measured and recorded one day before and after the five weeks of supplementation and intervention. The lean body mass of the treatment group showed a significant increment, from 52.26 (7.18) kg to 54.39 (7.43) kg (p = 0.012), but no significant changes in fat free mass were observed in the placebo group. Percentage body fat was significantly decreased in the treatment and placebo group, from 31.30 (5.48)% to 28.44 (6.43)% (p = 0.01) and from 22.83 (2.43)% to 21.33 (2.35)% (p = 0.001) respectively. The 1RM test showed a significant increase from 73.71 (16.63) to 78.71 (17.0) kg (p = 0.006) in the treatment group and from 77.29 (8.9) to 79.43 (8.8) kg (p = 0.011) in the placebo group.

The increase in strength in the treatment group was larger than in the placebo group (6.78% and 2.77% respectively). The mean frequency of sEMG on the biceps in the treatment and placebo groups decreased significantly, from 121.77 (40.0) to 90.47 (64.6) µV (p = 0.012) and from 127.95 (30.9) to 98.8 (50.1) µV (p = 0.036) respectively. The treatment produced 2.92% greater reduction in electrical activity of the muscle measured at the end of the experiment compared with placebo. The mean arm circumference of the treatment group increased significantly by 1.8 cm after the supplementation, from 30.87 (1.88) to 32.67 (1.96) cm (p = 0.011), but there was no significant increase in the placebo group. The results suggest that water soluble extract of Eurycoma longifolia Jack increased fat free mass, reduced body fat, and increased muscle strength and size, and thus may have an ergogenic effect. Further investigations are warranted.

Scientific name: Eurycoma longifolia

Local name: Tongkat Ali, Pasak Bumi, Malaysian Ginseng

Family: Simaroubaceae

Introduction:

Tongkat Ali, also known as “Malaysian Ginseng” is considered the most popular medicinal plant in Malaysia and is gaining recognition. It is also locally known as Tongkat Baginda, Payung Ali, Pasak Bumi (Indonesia), Piaak or Tung Saw (Thailand) and Cay Ba Binh (Vietnam).

Habitat:

Malaysian Ginseng is native to Southeast Asia and grows in the under storey of lowland forest. It is found in Malaysia, Myanmar, Indonesia, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam and the Philippines. Under cultivation, Malaysian Ginseng can be grown under minimal shade or exposed condition.

Tongkat Ali has monopodial growth habit and has no branches or minimised to one or two branches.

Malaysian Ginseng Description

Plant: Malaysian Ginseng is a treelet, growing up to a height of 15 m when matured.

Leaves: The leaves are odd-pinnate and compound in nature and can grow to a length of 1 m long. The leaflets are arranged in almost opposite pairs. They are dark green in color, oblong-lanceolate in shape, entire with a mucronate apices and oblique base. The leaflets are sessile. The compound leaf is with a petiole that is dark brown in color and measures about 20 -25 cm in length. Leaves are usually crowded at the tip of the branch.

Stem: There is minimal branching in Malaysian Ginseng, mostly are without branches and a few with one or two branches. The tip of the main stem is often orange or light green in color.

Inflorescence/Flower: Flowers are arranged densely on branched panicles, which arise from leaf axils. The panicles are about 60-70 cm in length and hairy. The calyx is green in color and the lobes ovate in shape. There are 5 corolla lobes, which are ovate-lanceolate in shape and red in color. The fruit, a drupe is yellowish brown to blackish-red when ripe.

Malaysian Ginseng plants are dioecious, bearing either male or female flowers. Flowers are arranged densely on branched panicles.

Plant parts used:

Roots

Chemical constituents:

The important chemical compounds in Malaysian Ginseng are;

• Eurycomanone
• Eurycomanol
• Eurycomalactone

Malaysian Ginseng Uses

The bark of the root is widely used in traditional medicine. It is boiled in water and taken as a health tonic after childbirth, as an aphrodisiac, to relieve fever, against intestinal worms, dysentery, diarrhoea, indigestion, ulcers, jaundice and other ailments. A decoction of the leaves is drank and used externally to treat fever and itchiness. The paste of the plant leaves is also used to relieve stomachache, headache and pain in the bones.

There are more than 200 Malaysian Ginseng products in the market, mostly emphasizing on aphrodisiac properties, used as antioxidant, energy and stamina booster and for improving blood circulation.

FELDA Schemes

Malaysian Ginseng planting in FELDA schemes was initiated in February 2004 under FELDA’s JKKR and Youth Project. They have been initiated as part of Felda’s efforts to bring in supplementary incomes to the settlers. As of November 2005, 27 schemes in the peninsula and 3 schemes in Sabah are currently involved in this project with a total planting of about 330,000 plants.

Felda Agricultural Services Sdn Bhd

Felda Agricultural Services Sdn. Bhd. (FASSB) is involved in Malaysian Ginseng planting since the end of 2003. The main objective is to carry out research in field management, agronomy, pest and disease management and production of planting materials. About 85,000 plants have been planted by November 2005 which cover a total area of 105 acres.

Research and Development

Agronomy

Malaysian Ginseng is found growing as an under storey tree in the forest of South East-Asia. Domestication from forest habitat to cultivation is needed for commercial production. In view of this, FASSB has initiated several studies relating to the agronomic requirements for optimum production of Malaysian Ginseng.

Cultivation

A study looking at various planting densities has been initiated to identify the optimum planting distance for commercial production. The planting densities under study ranged between 2000 to 5000 plants / hectare. High densities are possible due to the small canopy diameter (50-70 cm) and single (less branching) straight stem characteristic.

Shade Requirement

In its natural habitat, Malaysian Ginseng is an under storey plant of the tropical rainforest growing under high shade. Studies have been initiated to observe the growth under varying shade regimes as well as under no shade. The scope of planting Malaysian Ginseng under oil palm, timber, coconut and other fruit crops is being investigated.

Fertiliser Requirement

Nutrient requirement for optimum growth and biomass production is being investigated. The nutrients required come from inorganic and organic sources. The latter is given more emphasis with evaluation of plant and animal manures.

Harvesting

The optimum age for harvesting Malaysian Ginseng is being studied. The study involve monitoring the active ingredient concentrations and biomass build-up with age of the plant.

Mechanisation

Mechanisation will be an important focus for various farm activities involving weeding, p

The result: Penile shrinkage and testicular athropy.
The mechansim of action of malaysian ginseng (eurycoma longifolia) is the complete opposite.

First of all, it is not a synthetic testosterone product. It can’t be since its a natural herb. What it does instead is… it increases your body’s own testosterone production by stimulating the secretion of Luteinzing Hormonnes (LH) which in turns stimulate the Leydig cells of your testicles to produce testosterone.

Malaysian ginseng also raises your body’s levels of free testosterone. A large proportion of the testosterone that circulates in your body is bound by a protein call SHBG (sex hormone binding globulin).

Testosterone that is bound to SHBG is considered ineffective. Only free testosterone exerts the effects that are attributed to the hormone: one androgenic (masculinizing and sexualizing, both physiologically and mentally, and thus enhancing libido) and the other anabolic (building tissue, mainly muscle).

There is no doubt that malaysian ginseng in sufficient dosage and concentration increases your testosterone level. And the increase in testosterone level no doubts leads to:

• A high sex drive and libido
• Longer, harder and more spontaneous erection
• Improve muscle mass and strength
• A boost in energy and vitality
• Increase bone mineral density
• A sense of well being
• Improve cognitive function

It is being marketed in tablet forms and labelled “natural medication” since stringent Japanese laws disallow it to be categorised as “herbal products”. “So, the best approach is to promote Eurycoma Longifolia Jack (malaysian ginseng) as natural health supplements,” said Malaysian External Trade Development Corporation (Matrade) Tokyo director Mohd Mustafa Abdul Aziz.

This has been effective as the Japanese are inclined towards using natural products and they give due importance to body fitness. “Eurycoma Longifolia Jack (malaysian ginseng) products have a big potential in this country,” he said.

Mohd Mustafa added that Matrade was looking at the prospect of opening new markets for Eurycoma Longifolia Jack (malaysian ginseng) supplements.

Malaysian ginseng (or its scientific name, eurycoma longifolia jack) is famous in the South-East Asian region for its ability to increase a man’s testosterone level and virility. Research by Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) showed that the herb could also be used to cure illnesses and could even function as an anti-cancer agent.