Learn all about Maca

What is Maca?

Boost energy, mood & libido naturally with Maca Root. This adaptogenic Peruvian root supports hormonal balance.

Benefits of Maca

"Maca is a classic adaptogen from the Andes with a long history of traditional use for vitality. Clinical studies support its benefits for libido in both sexes and for alleviating menopausal symptoms, seemingly without direct hormonal action, which is intriguing. While energy and mood benefits are reported, the evidence is less robust than for sexual function. Gelatinized forms improve tolerability for those sensitive to the raw powder."

- Dr. Chris Kilham, Medicine Hunter, Ethnobotanist (studies traditional plant uses), Author (source)

How to use Maca

Dosage

Common dosage range is 1,500–3,000mg (1.5–3g) per day, typically taken in powder or capsule form. Start with a lower dose (e.g., 1.5g) and increase gradually if needed. Often taken cyclically (e.g., daily for a few weeks or months, then a break).

Timing

Can be taken any time of day, but often recommended in the morning due to potential energising effects. Can be taken with or without food.

Notes

Available as powder (can be added to smoothies, drinks, food), capsules, or liquid extract. 'Gelatinized' maca powder has had the starch removed, making it easier to digest for some people compared to raw powder. Effects may take several weeks of consistent use to become noticeable. Different colours (yellow, red, black) might have slightly different emphasis (e.g., black maca sometimes linked more to male fertility/memory, red to prostate health/bone density), but yellow is most common and widely studied.

Who should take Maca?

Men and women seeking to improve libido and sexual function.
Individuals looking for a natural energy and stamina boost.
Women experiencing symptoms of menopause.
People looking for natural ways to support mood and reduce mild anxiety/depression.
Athletes seeking potential performance enhancement (though evidence is limited).

How does Maca work?

The exact ways maca works are still being researched, but it's thought to act as an adaptogen, helping the body cope with stress, without directly changing hormone levels significantly in most studies. Instead of containing hormones itself, maca root contains unique compounds called macamides and macaenes, along with other nutrients and other natural plant compounds. These compounds may interact with the body's main control system for hormones (the body's main control system for hormones, connecting the brain and adrenal glands) and potentially the glands that produce hormones (like ovaries, testes, adrenals). This interaction might help balance hormone production indirectly, explaining its effects on libido, fertility, and menopause symptoms without dramatically altering levels of estrogen, testosterone, or other key hormones in the blood. Its energising effects might stem from stabilising blood sugar levels or acting on the brain and nerves. Effects on mood could be linked to its content of plant nutrients called flavonoids or its influence on the body's hormone system. Different coloured maca roots have varying concentrations of certain compounds, which might explain subtle differences in their effects.

Frequently asked questions

Natural sources of Maca

Maca is a plant root, so its primary 'natural source' is the plant itself, typically grown in the Andes mountains of Peru. It's consumed as a root vegetable in its native region, often boiled or roasted. Outside of Peru, it's almost exclusively available as a processed supplement, usually a dried powder (raw or gelatinized), capsules filled with the powder, or liquid extracts. It's not typically found added to common foods in other parts of the world. Therefore, obtaining maca generally requires purchasing it as a specific food product or supplement derived from the Lepidium meyenii root.

Potential side effects & risks

Warnings

Pregnant or breastfeeding women should avoid maca due to lack of safety data. People with thyroid conditions should consult their doctor before using maca, especially raw forms. Those with hormone-sensitive cancers or conditions should seek medical advice before use.

Side effects

Well-tolerated by most people. Some may experience mild digestive upset (bloating, gas) with raw maca powder; gelatinized maca often prevents this. Some report feeling jittery or having trouble sleeping if taken late in the day due to its energising effects.

Interactions

Generally considered safe with few known interactions. Due to potential influence on the endocrine system, individuals with hormone-sensitive conditions (like breast, uterine, ovarian, or prostate cancer, endometriosis, uterine fibroids) should consult their doctor before use. Caution advised if taking thyroid medication, as maca contains goitrogens (compounds that can interfere with thyroid function), especially in raw form, although this is mainly a concern with iodine deficiency.