Maca
Also known as lepidium meyenii, maca root, peruvian ginseng
Key takeaways
- Maca may improve sexual function, though evidence quality varies (PMID: 20691074)
- Maca root may assist in the management of SSRI-induced sexual dysfunction (PMID: 18801111)
- Maca does not alter serum reproductive hormone levels in healthy men (PMID: 12525260)
What the research shows
AI-synthesized from 4 peer-reviewed sources · Updated 2025
Maca (Lepidium meyenii) is a Peruvian root traditionally used as an aphrodisiac and to enhance fertility. Current research suggests it may improve sexual function and semen quality without altering serum reproductive hormone levels.
By condition
fertility
Moderate
Evidence suggests Maca may improve seminal quality and sexual function, though systematic reviews indicate a need for more high-quality data.
general
Weak
Research indicates that Maca does not significantly affect serum reproductive hormone levels in healthy adult men.
Effective doses
Not explicitly detailed in provided abstracts, though pilot studies have explored dose-finding for SSRI-induced dysfunction.
Safety & interactions
No specific interactions or contraindications were mentioned in the provided abstracts.
Limitations
The available evidence is limited by small sample sizes (e.g., N=16 in pilot studies) and a lack of large-scale, high-quality RCTs.
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Research evidence
Showing top 10 of 4 sources, sorted by quality
**Shin et al., 2010** | BMC Complement Altern Med | Systematic Review Shin Byung-Cheul, Lee Myeong Soo, ... Ernst Edzard. Maca (L. meyenii) for improving sexual function: a systematic review. BMC Complement Altern Med. 2010-Aug-06;10:44. do…
**Dording et al., 2008** | CNS Neurosci Ther | Rct Dording Christina M, Fisher Lauren, ... Mischoulon David. A double-blind, randomized, pilot dose-finding study of maca root (L. meyenii) for the management of SSRI-induced sexual dysfunctio…
Maca (Lepidium meyenii) is a herbaceous plant grown at over 4,000 m in Peru. It has been studied worldwide for its properties on fertility. Previous studies have assessed maca effects on semen quality, but there is need of randomised, doubl…
**Gonzales et al., 2003** | J Endocrinol | Rct Gonzales G F, Córdova A, ... Góñez C. Effect of Lepidium meyenii (Maca), a root with aphrodisiac and fertility-enhancing properties, on serum reproductive hormone levels in adult healthy men. J…
Frequently asked questions
What is Maca and what is it traditionally used for?
Maca (Lepidium meyenii) is a Peruvian root traditionally used as an aphrodisiac and to enhance fertility. Current research suggests it may improve sexual function and semen quality without altering serum reproductive hormone levels.
Does Maca work for improving sexual function?
There is moderate evidence suggesting Maca may improve sexual function, though systematic reviews indicate a need for more high-quality data. Research also indicates it may assist in the management of SSRI-induced sexual dysfunction.
Does Maca affect hormone levels in men?
Research indicates that Maca does not significantly affect serum reproductive hormone levels in healthy adult men, which is considered weak evidence for hormonal alteration. Therefore, it is not a hormone replacement therapy.
What is the effective dose of Maca?
Effective doses are not explicitly detailed in the provided evidence summary. While pilot studies have explored dose-finding for specific conditions like SSRI-induced dysfunction, no standard dosage is confirmed.
Is Maca safe to take with other medications?
No specific interactions or contraindications were mentioned in the provided abstracts, and none are documented. However, individuals on medications should consult a healthcare provider before use to ensure safety.
Who should avoid taking Maca?
While no specific contraindications are listed, pregnant women, individuals with hormone-sensitive conditions, or those on prescription medications should avoid Maca unless approved by a healthcare provider. Always consult a doctor before starting any new supplement.
Does Maca improve fertility or semen quality?
Maca has been studied for its potential to improve seminal quality, with moderate evidence supporting improvements in sexual function. However, the overall evidence quality varies, and more high-quality data is needed.