Tongkat ali or Long Jack (Eurycoma longifolia), commonly known as pasak bumi, is one of the most valuable medicinal plants native to Southeast Asia, particularly Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand. For centuries, the roots of pasak bumi have been widely used in traditional medicine because of their numerous health-promoting properties. Owing to its pharmacological potential, pasak bumi has gained significant attention in the traditional medicine, pharmaceutical, food and beverage, cosmetic, and dietary supplement industries.
Pasak bumi belongs to the Simaroubaceae family and is characterized by its slender trunk, pinnate leaves, and long, woody roots, which are the primary part used for medicinal purposes. Traditionally, the roots are processed into herbal decoctions, powders, and extracts to help maintain stamina, improve physical performance, and support overall well-being. In many Southeast Asian communities, pasak bumi has long been regarded as a valuable herbal remedy for enhancing vitality and promoting general health.
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Furthermore, pasak bumi contains numerous bioactive compounds, including quassinoids, eurycomanone, alkaloids, flavonoids, saponins, tannins, and phenolic compounds, which contribute to its medicinal properties. These compounds exhibit antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antimalarial, and adaptogenic activities that help protect the body from oxidative stress and support physiological functions. Due to its diverse chemical composition and broad biological activities, pasak bumi continues to be cultivated and utilized as an important ingredient in herbal medicines and health-related products.
The benefits of long jack include:
Traditional Medicine
- Herbal remedies and traditional medicines (jamu): Pasak bumi has long been used to help improve stamina, maintain vitality, and support overall health.
- Natural tonic agent: Its bioactive compounds may help reduce fatigue and promote physical endurance.
- Traditional herbal preparations: The roots are commonly processed into herbal decoctions, powders, and medicinal extracts.
Pharmacy
- Herbal capsules and syrups: Pasak bumi extract is incorporated into pharmaceutical products because of its antioxidant and adaptogenic properties.
- Source of bioactive compounds: Active compounds such as eurycomanone and quassinoids are extensively studied for pharmaceutical applications.
- Therapeutic formulations: The plant is used in products intended to support metabolic and physiological functions.
Supplement
- Capsules and powdered supplements: Pasak bumi is widely processed into dietary supplements to support stamina and overall health.
- Energy and wellness products: Its active compounds may help maintain vitality and physical performance.
- Functional supplements: Pasak bumi is commonly incorporated into products intended to maintain endurance and general well-being.