Maca

Last Updated: February 6 2023

Maca refers to two plants belonging to the Brassicaceae family, Lepidium peruvianum and Lepidium meyeni. The plants resemble a turnip and have a history of being used as an aphrodisiac.

Maca is most often used for

What is maca?

Maca is the common name for Lepidium meyenii (wild growing maca) and Lepidium peruvianum (cultivated maca), which are plants belonging to the Brassicaceae family (the family that also includes broccoli, turnips, and radishes). Although similar, the two plants have distinct differences between them in terms of visual appearance and phytochemical profiles. The roots of the plants can be red, black, pink, or yellow. As a supplement, maca root is usually sold in the form of dried powder and is often mixed into smoothies and other beverages.

What are maca’s main benefits?

A small amount of research suggests maca can increase libido to a notable degree and improve sexual function to a small degree. Maca may also improve the symptoms of menopause, especially those related to mood (such as anxiety and depression), though more research is needed before firm conclusions can be drawn regarding its effectiveness.

What are maca’s main drawbacks?

Although no significant toxicity has been reported after human consumption of maca, there is very little toxicological or safety information available.

How does maca work?

It is currently unclear how maca works. However, its effects do not appear to be mediated by altering levels of hormones usually involved in aphrodisia, such as testosterone, estrogen, and luteinizing hormone.

What else is Maca known as?
Note that Maca is also known as:
  • Lepidium meyenii
  • Maca root
  • Peruvian Ginseng
  • Lepidium peruvianum
Dosage information

The standard dose for maca is 1,500-3,000 mg.

Maca can be supplemented by eating maca root or through a maca extract. Extracts should be water or ethyl acetate-based.

Maca should be taken daily, alongside food.

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References
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