1. Wild Harvesting and Unsustainable Practices:
- Tongkat ali is primarily found in Southeast Asian rainforests, mainly in Malaysia, Indonesia, and Thailand. The demand for its roots has increased significantly due to its purported medicinal properties, particularly for enhancing sexual performance and virility.
- This demand has led to overexploitation of wild tongkat ali populations. The roots, which contain the bioactive compounds responsible for its therapeutic effects, are harvested unsustainably, often leading to the entire plant being uprooted. This practice disrupts the plant's natural regeneration and has depleted wild populations.
2. Slow Growth and Reproduction:
- Tongkat ali is a slow-growing tree that takes several years to reach maturity. It is estimated that it can take up to 15 years for a tongkat ali tree to flower and produce seeds.
- The plant's slow reproductive rate limits the population's natural ability to recover from overharvesting. The seeds are also dispersed mainly by birds and mammals, which can be affected by habitat loss and fragmentation.
3. Deforestation and Habitat Loss:
- The main habitats of tongkat ali in Southeast Asia are facing severe deforestation due to various human activities, including logging, conversion to agriculture land, and urbanization.
- The destruction of these rainforests directly affects the survival and propagation of tongkat ali plants. Reduced habitats hinder the growth of existing plants and limit the establishment of new ones, contributing to the species' decline.
Due to these combined factors, tongkat ali populations have significantly decreased, leading to its classification as an endangered species under the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List. Conservation efforts, such as sustainable cultivation, restoration projects, and public awareness about the importance of responsible consumption, are crucial for preserving this valuable medicinal plant.