Get Your Personalized Supplement StackSupplement Stack Quiz

Certified Organic Maca

Also known as: Maca, Peruvian ginseng, organic maca, Lepidium meyenii

Overview

Maca, scientifically known as *Lepidium meyenii* Walp., is a biennial herbaceous plant indigenous to the high-altitude Andes Mountains of Peru. It has been traditionally cultivated and consumed for centuries due to its purported nutritional and medicinal properties. When certified organic, it signifies that the maca has been grown and processed without the use of synthetic pesticides, fertilizers, or genetically modified organisms, adhering to strict organic farming standards. Maca is widely recognized as an adaptogen and functional food, primarily utilized for its potential to enhance sexual health, fertility, energy levels, mood, and physical performance. Its beneficial effects are attributed to a complex array of bioactive compounds, including unique macamides, macaenes, glucosinolates, and various other phytochemicals. While research on maca is ongoing and expanding, current systematic reviews often highlight the need for more high-quality clinical trials to conclusively establish many of its claimed benefits.

Benefits

Maca is associated with several potential health benefits, though the strength of evidence varies: * **Sexual Health:** Some randomized controlled trials (RCTs) suggest that maca may improve erectile function and sexual desire in men. A meta-analysis of two RCTs indicated mixed results for erectile dysfunction, with positive effects observed primarily at higher doses and over longer durations (e.g., 12 weeks). The evidence for this benefit is considered moderate, with a need for larger, more robust studies. * **Fertility:** A systematic review and meta-analysis of five RCTs investigating maca's effect on male fertility found inconclusive results regarding semen quality parameters (sperm concentration, motility). No statistically significant improvement over placebo was observed, suggesting that current evidence does not strongly support maca as a treatment for male infertility. * **Other Potential Effects:** Preclinical studies have explored maca's neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, immunoregulatory, and metabolic properties. These findings are promising but remain largely preliminary, with limited clinical evidence to support them in humans. Maca's antioxidant activity, for instance, is linked to its ability to increase endogenous antioxidant enzymes like glutathione peroxidase and superoxide dismutase. While generally well-tolerated, the clinical evidence for these broader health benefits is still emerging and requires further high-quality research.

How it works

Maca's therapeutic effects are believed to stem from its unique blend of bioactive compounds, including macamides, macaenes, and glucosinolates. These phytochemicals are thought to exert their influence through various biological pathways. They may modulate neurotransmitter systems, potentially affecting mood and energy levels, and interact with hormonal regulation, particularly influencing the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis, which plays a crucial role in sexual function and fertility. Maca also exhibits significant antioxidant activity, attributed to its ability to enhance the body's endogenous antioxidant enzymes, such as glutathione peroxidase and superoxide dismutase, thereby combating oxidative stress. While the exact molecular targets and comprehensive mechanisms of action are still under investigation, these compounds are believed to contribute to maca's adaptogenic properties, helping the body adapt to stress and maintain homeostasis.

Side effects

Maca is generally considered safe and well-tolerated, with a low incidence of adverse effects reported in both human and animal studies. The most commonly reported side effects are mild gastrointestinal disturbances, such as stomach upset or bloating, which are typically transient and resolve with continued use or by taking maca with food. Serious adverse events are rare. There are no well-documented significant drug interactions with maca, nor are there established contraindications for its use. However, the data on drug interactions are limited, and individuals on prescription medications should consult a healthcare professional before starting maca supplementation. Specific safety data for vulnerable populations, such as pregnant or breastfeeding women and children, are insufficient. Therefore, maca is generally not recommended for these groups due to the lack of comprehensive safety studies. As with any supplement, individuals with pre-existing medical conditions should exercise caution and seek medical advice before use.

Dosage

Typical dosages of dried maca root powder, as used in clinical studies, range from 1.5 to 3 grams per day. For potential sexual health benefits, higher doses within this range and longer treatment durations, often 12 weeks or more, may be necessary to observe effects. Maca is commonly consumed as a powder, which can be mixed into beverages or food, or in capsule form. There is no officially established maximum safe dose for maca; however, doses up to 3 grams daily have been used in clinical trials without reports of serious adverse effects. It is generally recommended to start with a lower dose and gradually increase it to assess individual tolerance. Taking maca with meals can help minimize any potential mild gastrointestinal discomfort. The organic certification of maca does not alter the recommended dosage but ensures the product is free from synthetic chemicals and pesticides.

FAQs

Is maca effective for erectile dysfunction?

Evidence is mixed; some studies suggest benefits at higher doses and longer durations, but more large-scale randomized controlled trials are needed to confirm efficacy.

Does maca improve male fertility?

Current clinical trials do not show significant improvement in semen quality parameters like sperm concentration or motility, indicating inconclusive evidence for this benefit.

Is maca safe for long-term use?

Limited long-term safety data exist. Short-term use (up to several months) appears safe and well-tolerated, with rare and mild side effects reported.

Should maca be taken with food?

Yes, maca powder or capsules are often taken with meals. This can help improve tolerance and reduce the likelihood of mild gastrointestinal discomfort.

Research Sources

https://oss.jomh.org/files/article/20230130-20/pdf/JOMH15305.pdf – This meta-analysis of two RCTs investigated maca's effect on erectile dysfunction. It found mixed results, with some improvement in erectile function noted at higher doses and longer durations, but highlighted the low certainty of evidence due to small sample sizes and limited studies.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9468664/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis of five RCTs assessed maca's impact on male fertility. It concluded that there was no statistically significant improvement in semen quality parameters (sperm concentration or motility) in either infertile or healthy men, indicating inconclusive evidence for fertility benefits.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10910417/ – This comprehensive review summarized various preclinical and clinical studies on maca. It highlighted that maca's bioactive compounds show potential neuroprotective, antioxidant, and sexual health benefits, and confirmed its general safety profile, while also pointing out the limitations of current clinical evidence.