Maca root, scientifically known as Lepidium meyenii, is a root vegetable that grows natively in the high Andes of Peru and Bolivia. For example, given that specific herbs have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity, these may provide the greatest benefits for men presenting with excess premorbid inflammation or oxidative stress. Finally, matching treatment based on presentation may also clarify populations in whom herbal supplementation may be most beneficial. Examining the safety and efficacy of an herb in different populations, such as healthy, aging men; men with comorbid medical conditions such as metabolic syndrome, obesity, or diabetes; men engaging in regular exercise; and in men taking concurrent medications, will also help to determine the most suitable groups to target for its use. Moreover, there was significant variability in the herbal extracts used, which may impact safety and potency. The dosages used in the included studies varied widely, making an evaluation of safety and efficacy difficult.
It’s still unclear whether maca has any real benefit for treating low libido, sexual dysfunction, or infertility in either males or females. However, research on its benefits has been mixed, with more studies needed to support the claims. Maca root may not raise testosterone the way synthetic hormones can, but that does not mean it has no role. "I began using maca to support drive and noticed a nice increase within about a week.
Just like coffee or chocolate, maca has a distinct taste. But before you dive into the world of maca, there’s something to note. If you’re a coffee drinker, stirring in a spoon of maca powder can be a good start to your day. She started including a teaspoon of it in her daily smoothie.
The remaining studies (25/32) were judged as having some concerns for their risk of bias due to potential biases arising from the randomization process (domain 1) (35–49, 51, 53, 54, 57, 58, 60, 62, 64–66), with Gaffney et al. (38) also being judged as having some concerns for its risk of bias due to missing outcome data (domain 3). Conversely, the study by Rath and Panja (59) was judged to have a high risk of bias since it had some concerns arising from its randomization process (domain 1) and a high risk of bias for its measurement of the outcome (domain 4) and selection of the reported result (domain 5). Six studies (50, 52, 55, 56, 61, 63) out of 32 were judged to have a low risk of bias due to their strong methodological designs. The risk-of-bias assessment (Supplemental Tables 1 and 2) revealed some concerns for most of the included studies. A total of 126 male participants were recruited for the studies, with ages ranging from 20 to 56 y and sample sizes ranging from 20 to 56 participants. A total of 301 participants were recruited for the studies involving Tribulus terrestris, with ages ranging from 18 to 65 y and sample sizes ranging from 21 to 180 participants. A total of 197 male participants were recruited for the studies, with ages ranging from 18 to 70 y and sample sizes ranging from 46 to 60 participants.
Its unique macamide compounds interact with endocannabinoid receptors and neurotransmitter pathways, improving sexual desire and energy through neurological mechanisms rather than purely hormonal ones. This is why maca pairs so well with direct testosterone supports like shilajit — they work through completely different mechanisms and cover ground the other cannot, as explored in our shilajit and maca combination guide. It also means maca does not suppress the body's own hormone production, making it safe for long-term daily use without cycling concerns.
It's best to stick to food amounts rather than concentrated supplements if considering maca during these sensitive periods. The hormonal effects could potentially affect pregnancy outcomes or infant development. Traditional use of maca as a food in Peru doesn't necessarily translate to safety as a concentrated supplement for pregnant or lactating women. Due to lack of sufficient safety data, many experts recommend avoiding maca supplements during these periods.
Archaeological evidence suggests the domestication of maca began around 1600 BCE. Maca root grows exclusively in the central Peruvian Andes at altitudes of 13,000-15,000 feet, where few other crops can survive. This adaptogenic plant grows in harsh conditions and has been valued for centuries for its nutritional and potential medicinal benefits. Some research even suggests maca might help reduce symptoms of androgen deficiency in men. You can combine maca with nutritious ingredients such as hemp, cacao, and flaxseed. You can find many recipes for energy balls online to suit your tastes.
A recent narrative review by Clemesha et al. (28) concluded that many supplements claiming "testosterone-boosting" properties, including formulations using herbs, spices, plants, or their extracts, do not appear to be supported by scientific evidence. Given the increasing body of research on herbal supplementation to support natural hormone production, it presents as a potential treatment option for AD. From the age of 30 onwards, testosterone concentrations in men tend to decline at the rate of ∼1% per year (1–6). The aim of this systematic review was to summarize and critically evaluate randomized controlled trials published on the efficacy of single herbal ingredients on testosterone concentrations, in addition to its fractions or binding proteins, in men (≥18 y). A pilot investigation into the effect of maca supplementation on physical activity and sexual desire in sportsmen. In several studies, maca shows no adverse effects. Maca is most widely known for its potential to support energy levels.
Maca appears to influence overall hormone balance rather than specifically targeting testosterone. Interestingly, some research has detected increased testosterone specifically in semen rather than blood serum. This finding suggests maca's benefits may work through non-hormonal pathways. Scientific evidence reveals important distinctions between maca's impact on sexual function versus direct hormonal changes. Today, it remains an integral part of Peruvian culture and is now recognized worldwide for its potential health benefits. This plant, grown in the Andes Mountains, has been used for centuries for its potential health benefits.

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