Maca
Commonly used for
EnergyLibido
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The cheapest product is usually low quality, but more expensive doesn’t always mean better.
What is it? / Overview
Wellness uses some people report: fertility support. This is anecdotal, and there isn't strong clinical evidence that it works for everyone. Maca has traditionally been used to enhance libido and fertility. Human studies suggest modest improvements in sexual desire and subjective well-being, but there is little evidence that it significantly alters testosterone or estrogen levels.
How is it used? / Administration
Form: Gelatinized maca root powder or standardized extract (black maca most studied for cognition; red maca for prostate health)
Typical dose studied: 1.5–3 g/day
Timing: Morning with food
Gelatinized maca generally better tolerated than raw. Benefits primarily subjective — not associated with measurable testosterone increases despite popular marketing claims.
How well does it work? / Evidence
~ Moderate evidence
Who should avoid it?
Avoid with: Cancer — active or within past 12 months
Already taking it? Reassess benefit after 8–12 weeks.
Research & references
Shin BC et al. (2010). Maca for sexual function systematic review. BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine. Gonzales GF. (2012). Ethnobiology and ethnopharmacology of maca review. International Journal of Biomedical Science. Lee MS et al. (2016). Maca for menopausal symptoms systematic review. Maturitas.
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