Maca root

What is maca root?

Maca root, also known as Peruvian ginseng, is a root vegetable that grows in the Andean highlands of Peru. It has been used for medicinal purposes for thousands of years and is known for its adaptogenic properties.

How does it work?

Maca root works by regulating the hypothalamus and pituitary glands, which are responsible for hormone production. It also contains a variety of nutrients and bioactive compounds that have been shown to have health benefits.

What are the active ingredients that are important for its medicinal properties?

Maca root contains a variety of bioactive compounds, including macamides and macaenes, which have been shown to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It is also rich in vitamins, minerals, and other phytochemicals.

What forms does it come in?

Maca root is available in a variety of forms, including powder, capsules, extracts, and tinctures.

When was it first used for medicinal purposes?

Maca root has been used for medicinal purposes for thousands of years by indigenous people in the Andes.

What does Maca root help with?

• Low libido (men and women): Maca is one of the most consistently supported natural options for low sex drive. Multiple clinical trials have shown meaningful improvements in self-reported libido in both men and women after 6–12 weeks of use, and importantly, these effects appear independent of changes in testosterone or estrogen levels — suggesting maca works through its own pathways.
• Sexual dysfunction: In men experiencing antidepressant-related sexual side effects — one of the hardest-to-treat problems in mental health care — maca has shown real promise in small but well-designed trials. Women dealing with low arousal or difficulty reaching orgasm have also reported improvements in studies using standardized maca extract.
• Menopause symptoms: Maca appears to gently support estrogen activity during perimenopause and menopause, helping reduce hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, and low libido without acting as a direct hormone. This makes it an appealing option for women looking to avoid hormone replacement therapy or who want additional support alongside it.
• Low energy and fatigue: Traditionally the primary reason Andean people consumed maca daily, its energy-supporting effects are backed by both centuries of use and some modern trials. It appears to improve stamina and reduce feelings of tiredness, possibly through its nutrient density and influence on mitochondrial energy pathways.
• Fertility support (men): Black maca in particular has been shown in clinical research to improve sperm count, sperm motility, and semen volume after 4 months of use. These effects are meaningful for men dealing with subfertility and are not explained simply by testosterone changes.
• Mood and anxiety: Several trials in postmenopausal women have found that maca reduces self-reported anxiety and depression scores, with effects appearing greater than placebo. The mechanism may involve its influence on the adrenal glands and its naturally occurring alkaloids, which some researchers believe have mild mood-regulating properties.
• Hormonal balance (women): Maca is classified as a non-hormonal botanical, meaning it doesn't contain estrogen or progesterone itself. Yet studies suggest it can support the body's own estrogen production in postmenopausal women, potentially through the hypothalamus and pituitary gland — helping the body regulate itself rather than replacing hormones externally.
• Exercise performance and endurance: A small but growing body of research suggests maca may improve cycling time trials and endurance performance, particularly in trained athletes. Cyclists using maca extract for two weeks showed improved time-trial performance compared to placebo in at least one controlled trial.
• Memory and focus: Animal studies have shown strong effects on memory, and while human data is limited, traditional use of maca in Andean communities for mental clarity is well documented. Early human research on postmenopausal women suggests maca may help with cognitive complaints during hormonal transitions.

What can it help prevent?

Maca root has been shown to help prevent:

• Osteoporosis
• Cognitive decline
• Prostate cancer
• Cardiovascular disease
• Depression and anxiety

Which foods are rich in it?

Maca root is not commonly found in foods, but it can be found in some health food stores as a powder or supplement.

What are possible side effects?

Maca root is generally considered safe when taken in recommended doses. However, some people may experience side effects such as:

• Digestive issues
• Headaches
• Insomnia
• Changes in blood pressure

What's the recommended daily dose?

The recommended daily dose of maca root is typically 1-3 grams per day.

How many days does it take to work?

The effects of maca root may vary from person to person, but some studies have shown that improvements in sexual function and mood may be seen within a few weeks of starting supplementation.

What time of day is best to take it?

There is no specific time of day that is best for taking maca root. It can be taken at any time.

Is it best to take it with or without food?

Maca root can be taken with or without food, depending on personal preference. However, taking it with food may help to reduce the risk of digestive issues.