Eurycoma Longifolia | Earth Stake, a Borneo Plant Now in High Demand (1)

Pasak bumi (the earth stake) tree, along with its trunk and leaves, grows wild in the Borneo rainforest. Photo credit: the writer.

To provide a comprehensive understanding and detailed description of its morphology, benefits, properties, and forms, the editorial team is launching a narrative series on pasak bumi starting today.

Pasak bumi. 

Have you ever heard of this rare and remarkably potent plant from the Borneo rainforest?

Known scientifically as eurycoma longifolia, this plant is one of the prized natural treasures of Southeast Asia. 

People in Malaysia refer to this highly beneficial plant as 'tongkat ali".

In Indonesia, it’s called pasak bumi or bidara pahit. Though it might seem ordinary at first glance, pasak bumi is renowned for its reputed ability to enhance male vitality and overall stamina.

Pasak bumi has become a highly sought-after commodity

Typically found in the dense, tropical rainforests of Borneo, pasak bumi thrives in these lush, remote forests. It grows sporadically, often in isolation, making it challenging to spot if you’re not familiar with it. 

Read Pasak Bumi: Borneo’s Masculine Coffee That Will Leave You Curious and Addicted

Searching for pasak bumi can be quite an undertaking, requiring both effort and a deep understanding of the local customs and taboos associated with it.

The most commonly used part of the earth stake is its root, though its leaves and stem can also be used. The root of the earth stake is long and embedded in the ground, which is why it's called 'earth stake'. Photo credit: the writer.

Once found, extracting pasak bumi involves adhering to specific rituals. You must approach the task with reverence, ensuring you’re facing away from the tree when pulling it out, to respect traditional beliefs.

Does pasak bumi really boost energy and enhance male performance? Is it myth, or is there undeniable truth to these claims? This question often lingers in the minds of those intrigued by the plant's reputed benefits.

As pasak bumi becomes increasingly rare, locating it involves venturing far into the wilderness. 

From the provincial capital of Kalbar, Pontianak, you’d have to travel nearly 450 kilometers into the deep hinterlands, near the border with Sarawak, Malaysia. 

There are two main taboos associated with harvesting pasak bumi. First, you must refrain from using foul or inappropriate language before and during the search. Second, when you do find it, you must pull it out while facing away from the tree, avoiding direct confrontation.

Pasak bumi grows among other trees in the forest

This rare plant actually grows among other trees in the forest. Known scientifically as Eurycoma longifolia, Malaysians call it tongkat ali, while in Indonesia, it’s also referred to as bidara pahit. It doesn’t grow in clusters but rather sporadically, often appearing one at a time. If you’re not careful, it’s easy to overlook. Only those with true grit will find it, relying on luck and skill.

Despite its modest size, with usable portions starting around the size of a thumb and occasionally growing as large as a thigh, extracting pasak bumi is no simple task. Its roots extend deep into the earth, and without the right technique, you could end up empty-handed.

After walking for about an hour from Jangkang, we arrived at a hill. Though not entirely pristine, the forest here remains lush. 

A 12-meter waterfall cascades freely, and the cool, fresh air in the valley is invigorating. Smooth rocks are scattered along the river, enhancing the serene beauty of the area.

-- Masri Sareb Putra