What Is Maca?
Maca (Lepidium meyenii) is a root vegetable grown in the high Andes of Peru, traditionally used to support energy, fertility, and endurance. Today it is sold mostly as a powder or capsule and marketed for a broad range of health benefits.
Myth 1: Maca Raises Testosterone
This is one of the most common misconceptions. A double-blind study in men found that maca improved sexual desire but did not affect testosterone, luteinising hormone, or follicle-stimulating hormone levels (Gonzales et al., 2002). The libido improvement was real, but it did not come from hormonal changes.
Myth 2: Maca Significantly Improves Athletic Performance
A pilot study in recreational athletes found that 14 days of maca extract improved cycling performance and sexual desire compared to baseline (Stone et al., 2009). However, the sample size was small and the absence of a placebo control makes interpretation difficult. Evidence in the athletic domain remains preliminary.
Myth 3: Maca Is the Only Solution for Fatigue
Maca is not an energy drink or a stimulant. It contains no caffeine or other CNS-stimulating compounds. Reported energy improvements by users may partly stem from improvements in libido and mood that indirectly influence energy perception.
What the Evidence Actually Shows
The strongest evidence for maca covers:
- Sexual dysfunction and reduced libido β particularly SSRI-induced β where one study found a positive effect (Dording et al., 2008)
- Some alleviation of menopausal symptoms
For fertility, athletic performance, and hormonal effects, the evidence base remains weak.
NOW Maca 500mg 250 veg. caps., Ostrovit Maca 90tab, and ICONFIT Maca 90caps are available at maxfit.ee to support energy and wellbeing. The full maca range is at maxfit.ee.
Grey Areas
Maca has a good safety profile as a food β it is after all a root vegetable. Long-term supplement safety studies are limited, however. People with thyroid conditions should exercise caution, as maca contains glucosinolates that may affect thyroid function.
Bottom Line
Maca is not a miracle root. Evidence for libido support exists, particularly in specific situations. Hormonal, testosterone, and athletic performance effects are weakly supported. Feel free to try it, but don't expect miracles.
References
Gonzales, G. F., Cordova, A., Vega, K., Chung, A., Villena, A., Gonez, C., & Castillo, S. (2002). Effect of Lepidium meyenii (Maca) on sexual desire and its absent relationship with serum testosterone levels in adult healthy men. Andrologia, 34(6), 367β372. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12472620/
Stone, M., Ibarra, A., Roller, M., Zangara, A., & Stevenson, E. (2009). A pilot investigation into the effect of maca supplementation on physical activity and sexual desire in sportsmen. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 126(3), 574β576. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19781622/
Dording, C. M., Fisher, L., Papakostas, G., Farabaugh, A., Sonawalla, S., Fava, M., & Mischoulon, D. (2008). A double-blind, randomized, pilot dose-finding study of maca root (L. meyenii) for the management of SSRI-induced sexual dysfunction. CNS Neuroscience and Therapeutics, 14(3), 182β191. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18801111/
FAQ
Is maca suitable for women?
Yes. Research has shown that maca may help alleviate menopausal complaints such as hot flushes and mood changes. Maca is one of the more balanced supplements with evidence for both men and women.
How long does it take for maca to work?
Most studies use a 6β12-week period. Short-term results (1β2 weeks) are a less reliable indicator of maca's true effect.
Is maca safe for daily use?
As a food, maca is safe. Long-term supplement safety studies are limited, but short-term use is generally well tolerated. People with thyroid conditions should consult a healthcare provider first.
