MEN'S HEALTH · SAFETY GUIDE · MALAYSIA 2026
Tongkat ali is one of the herbs Malaysians know best. Many men want to try it but worry about side effects. Here is a plain guide: what studies say, who should avoid it, and what you really need to watch out for.
The short answer
Taken as directed, most people have no obvious problems
In studies using common amounts for several weeks, no serious side effects were found. A small number of people had trouble sleeping, or felt anxious or restless.
Long-term use and high amounts have not been studied much. The safest approach is to take the amount on the pack and not take more.
Who should avoid it
Not recommended for these 3 groups
- People with G6PD deficiency: strongly advised not to take it.
- Within 3 months of recovering from surgery: not recommended.
- Pregnant women: not recommended.
The real risk
Products of unknown origin are more dangerous than tongkat ali itself
Malaysia’s National Pharmaceutical Regulatory Agency (NPRA) and Hong Kong’s Department of Health have both issued warnings about “natural” herbal products found to contain hidden prescription drugs — in the Hong Kong case, a tongkat ali instant coffee. Taking these drugs without a doctor’s advice can affect your eyesight and hearing, drop your blood pressure too low, and in serious cases cause a stroke or heart attack.
Choose products with a clear label that lists the ingredients and the factory, and buy from the official website, Watsons or authorised pharmacies.
MFormula is made in a factory certified GMP and MeSTI by Malaysia’s Ministry of Health (KKM) and is HALAL certified. View all 4 certificates →
If you feel unwell
Stop first, then see a doctor
If you have trouble sleeping, a fast heartbeat, an upset stomach or a skin rash after taking it, stop. If it does not get better, see a doctor and bring the product box with you.
Read next: How to take tongkat ali: best time and daily use
This article is general information only and does not replace advice from your doctor.
About the author: Andrew Foo is a physiotherapist and co-founder of MFormula.