Tongkat Ali Extract: 200:1 Extract vs. Standardized Extract – What Should Australians Choose?
At first glance, the 200:1 Tongkat Ali extract might seem like the best option, especially since most Tongkat Ali supplements sold in the U.S. are marketed with this extraction ratio. However, the reality is that the most potent and effective Tongkat Ali often comes in the form of standardized extracts. This article will clarify the facts behind Tongkat Ali extraction ratios and help Australian consumers make an informed decision.
Overview: Understanding Tongkat Ali Extract
A standardized Tongkat Ali extract is developed by measuring the amount of specific phytochemical compounds, such as eurycomanone, eurypeptides, glycosaponin, and polysaccharides. These compounds have been researched and identified as having beneficial effects at certain levels, ensuring potency and consistency across different batches.
As Dr. Bill Rawls, Medical Director of Vital Plan, explains, “It’s much more common to standardize extracts to a marker of potency and consistency.” This is why standardized extracts are often recommended over the more hyped 200:1 Tongkat Ali extracts.
In contrast, 200:1 Tongkat Ali extracts are generally non-standardized, which can lead to variability in the key bioactive compounds. This inconsistency can reduce the extract's overall potency and effectiveness.
“When herbs are not standardized, meaning they haven’t been tested to determine how much of certain chemical components they contain, it’s hard to judge quality and potency,” says Dr. Rawls.
Today, most Tongkat Ali extracts are produced from the roots or branches of the plant using organic solvents like ethanol or water. The hot water extraction method is particularly effective, as it involves boiling Tongkat Ali raw powder at temperatures between 80 and 100 degrees Celsius for up to four hours. This process extracts key bioactive compounds, including eurycomanone, eurypeptides, and saponin.
Standardized hot water extracts offer greater benefits than ethanol-based extracts, as they contain fewer impurities and maintain higher levels of the beneficial phytochemicals.
What is Pure Tongkat Ali Extract?
Pure Tongkat Ali extract refers to the highest grade of Tongkat Ali, free from additives, preservatives, or fillers. It is produced through a standardized extraction process that ensures consistent levels of bioactive compounds.
Pure yellow Tongkat Ali powder extract has a distinct yellow color with goldish undertones. In contrast, extracts with added fillers, such as maltodextrin, often appear pale white with a hint of yellow. The addition of fillers dilutes the potency of the extract, making it less effective.
200:1 Tongkat Ali vs. 100:1 Extract – Which is More Potent?
The extraction ratio of Tongkat Ali, whether 200:1, 100:1, 50:1, or 20:1, does not necessarily indicate its efficacy or strength. For example, a 200:1 Tongkat Ali extract with fewer eurypeptides and glycosaponin may be less potent than a 100:1 extract with higher levels of these compounds.
Simply put, a higher extraction ratio does not guarantee better health benefits.
200:1 Tongkat Ali vs. Standardized Extract – Which is Better for Health?
Standardized Tongkat Ali extracts are often more effective for boosting testosterone and libido than 200:1 extracts. This is due to their higher percentage of eurypeptides, which help release free testosterone more efficiently, aiding in muscle growth and libido enhancement. While a 200:1 Tongkat Ali extract may contain up to 3% eurycomanone as its only marker, a standardized extract achieves an optimal balance of eurycomanone (1.5%), eurypeptides (20-30%), polysaccharides (30%), and glycosaponin (>40%).
Tongkat Ali Powder vs. Tongkat Ali Extract
Tongkat Ali extract is a concentrated form of the plant, offering higher potency and efficacy compared to ground Tongkat Ali powder. Ground powder has a coarse texture, is often not water-soluble, and can be harmful to your kidneys if consumed regularly.
In contrast, fine Tongkat Ali extracts are water-soluble and have higher absorption rates, making them more effective in delivering health benefits. Hot water Tongkat Ali powder extract has been shown in multiple clinical studies to enhance protein synthesis and energy conversion, leading to increased testosterone levels, improved libido, and muscle growth.
The Difference Between Extract Ratios and Standardized Extracts
An extraction ratio, such as 200:1, suggests that a certain amount of raw Tongkat Ali material was used to produce a smaller amount of extract. However, this ratio does not necessarily reflect the potency of the extract. A 100:1 extract with 1% eurycomanone may be just as effective as a 200:1 extract with the same percentage of eurycomanone.
In essence, relying solely on extraction ratios can be misleading. Standardized extracts, which ensure consistent levels of key bioactive compounds, provide a more reliable measure of potency and effectiveness.
Comparison of Extracts Based on Extract Ratio and Standardization
To ensure you are getting the full benefits of Tongkat Ali, look for standardized extracts that maintain the right levels of eurycomanone, eurypeptides, saponin, and total protein. Most of the research on Tongkat Ali’s health benefits is based on standardized extracts, with Malaysia being a leading producer of high-quality Tongkat Ali.
Clinical urologist Dr. Ismail highlights, “For it to work on humans, Tongkat Ali standardized extracts are the ones used by doctors and research scientists. The 200:1 Tongkat Ali extract has never been the benchmark for research or clinical use.”
Dr. Annie George from Biotropics adds that consumers should not be swayed by high extraction ratios, as they do not determine the efficacy or potency of Tongkat Ali.
The compilation of the analysis is shown below:
Table 1: Tongkat Ali extract from various suppliers (undisclosed) with bioactive compounds as tested in a Chemistry laboratory
What is the Purest Form of Tongkat Ali?
The purest form of Tongkat Ali extract available today is sourced from 100% Tongkat Ali root, harvested from mature plants, and standardized to contain 1.5% eurycomanone, 22% eurypeptides, and 40% glycosaponin.
AKARALI Physta standardized hot water extract is one example of pure Tongkat Ali root extract, known for its distinct goldish-yellow color and natural bitterness. This extract is widely popular in Australia, the U.K., and the U.S. for its purity and effectiveness.
The Best 200:1 Tongkat Ali Extract
For those seeking affordable Tongkat Ali supplements, options like DoubleWood 200:1 Tongkat Ali, NatureBell Tongkat Ali, and Indonesian Tongkat Ali are popular in the U.S. However, it’s important to note that most 200:1 Tongkat Ali extracts are not clinically tested for efficacy and may contain lower potency due to the excessive addition of maltodextrin.
What to Look Out for When Buying 200:1 Tongkat Ali Extract
When purchasing a 200:1 Tongkat Ali extract, the color of the extract is a key indicator of its quality. A lighter yellow color suggests a high amount of fillers, such as maltodextrin, which dilute the efficacy of the extract. To ensure maximum benefits, choose a product that contains pure 100% Tongkat Ali standardized extract.
Do check out the image gallery below to find out how the color changes when maltodextrin (binder) is added to Tongkat Ali extract.
Final Thoughts
Australian consumers should exercise caution when buying 200:1 Tongkat Ali extracts, as they may not be the most potent or effective option. The extraction ratio can be misleading and does not necessarily correlate with the supplement’s efficacy.
Standardized Tongkat Ali extracts, on the other hand, are the clear winner, offering better performance, safety, and long-term benefits. Reputable brands like AKARALI use standardized extracts that conform to Malaysian Tongkat Ali Standards (MS 2409), delivering higher efficacy than most 200:1 Tongkat Ali extracts on the market today.
By choosing standardized Tongkat Ali extracts, Australians can confidently invest in a supplement that delivers the health benefits they seek, without the risks associated with non-standardized products.
Learn More or Contact Us
Learn more about the best Tongkat Ali in Australia here, or email us at enquiry@akarali.com.au if you have any queries or concerns.
Get yours today: https://akarali.com.au/products/premium-tongkat-ali-supplement
Author
Alief Acmal, a committed contributor to AKARALI, offers insightful narratives covering the realms of lifestyle, culture, and health-focused content in Malaysia. Through a blend of creativity and meticulous research, Alief provides a unique lens on various aspects of life. Immerse yourself in his compelling body of work for an enriching exploration.