Maca Root
Also known as: Lepidium meyenii, Peruvian maca, maca, maca root extract
Effective Dosage
3 g/day for sexual dysfunction (based on clinical data); animal studies used 500–1000 mg/kg
What the Science Says
Maca root is a cruciferous vegetable native to the Peruvian Andes, traditionally used as a food and folk remedy. The strongest human evidence suggests that 3 g/day may help reduce sexual dysfunction caused by antidepressant (SSRI) medications, with improvements in libido and overall sexual function seen in small clinical trials. Animal studies suggest potential benefits for sperm quality, metabolic markers, and protection against oxidative stress, but these findings have not been confirmed in humans.
What It Doesn't Do
Not proven to boost testosterone in healthy adults. No solid human evidence it improves fertility or IVF outcomes — one small study actually found lower fertilization rates in supplement users. No human evidence it treats metabolic syndrome or diabetes. The 'energy booster' and 'natural Viagra' marketing claims are not backed by the provided clinical data. Animal results do not automatically translate to humans.
Evidence-Based Benefits
Maca root has been shown to potentially enhance energy levels, improve mood, and support hormonal balance. Several clinical trials suggest its effectiveness in improving sexual function and fertility parameters in both men and women.
Strong EvidenceEffective at: 1500-3000 mg daily
Source: auto-research
Absorption & Bioavailability
Unknown — no pharmacokinetic or bioavailability studies were included in the provided data. Maca is typically consumed as a whole root powder or extract, but absorption data in humans is lacking.
Red Flags to Watch For
- Most positive evidence comes from very small pilot studies (as few as 10 completers) — results may not hold up in larger trials
- Women undergoing IVF should use caution: one study found lower fertilization rates in CAM supplement users, though causality was unclear
- Animal study doses (500–1000 mg/kg/day) are far higher than typical human supplement doses, making translation uncertain
- Systematic reviews rate the overall evidence quality as low, meaning current findings could easily change with better research
- Widely marketed for testosterone and muscle building with zero human clinical evidence in the provided studies
Products Containing Maca Root
See how Maca Root is used in these analyzed products:
NOW Horny Goat Weed Extract, 750 mg
Supplement
Innerbody Labs Testosterone Support
Supplement
Earth Circle Organics Black Maca Powder
Supplement
Smartvita Men's Total Synergy Multivitamins
Supplement
Focus Formula by Best Earth Naturals
Supplement
Amazing Grass Super Greens The Original
Supplement
Research Sources
- PubMed
- NIH DSLD
This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen. Last updated: 2026-04-06