Lepidium meyenii (Peruvian Maca)
Andean root that boosts energy and libido through hormonal signaling modulation — different colors (red, black, yellow) have distinct effects.
Maca is a cruciferous root vegetable grown in the Peruvian Andes. It's been used for centuries to enhance energy, libido, and fertility. Unlike some supplements, maca doesn't appear to directly affect hormone levels but may influence how the body perceives and responds to hormonal signals. Different colors (yellow, red, black) may have slightly different effects.
Helps body adapt to stress
Rich in vitamins, minerals, and amino acids
How Maca works — from molecular targets to health outcomes. Click an edge to see supporting research.This visualization is in beta — pathways are being refined and expanded.
1500-3000mg
Take with food
| Form | Type |
|---|---|
| 🧪Gelatinized maca powder (easier to digest) | Recommended |
| 🧪Raw maca powder | Alternative |
| 💊Capsules | Alternative |
| 💊Extract | Alternative |
Gelatinization removes starch, improving digestibility. Different colors may have different effects: black for energy/memory, red for prostate/mood, yellow most studied.
Minimum: 4 weeks
Optimal: 8 weeks
Cycling: Traditional use suggests cycling. Try 3 months on, 1 month off, or take weekends off.
Note: Taking with food may reduce potential GI effects. Some prefer morning dosing for energy benefits.
More sustained energy and reduced fatigue
Enhanced sexual desire in both men and women
Better mood and reduced anxiety
Traditional food in Peru, but supplements not well-studied; consult doctor
Use with caution due to goitrogen content
Contains goitrogens; may affect thyroid function
Tip: Use gelatinized form; take with food
Tip: Take earlier in the day
Tip: Reduce dose
Both are adaptogens with different profiles
Comprehensive adaptogenic and energy support
Different mechanisms for hormonal support
Enhanced energy and libido support
Both support libido through different mechanisms
Enhanced libido and sexual function
Top studies from 40+ peer-reviewed papers
de Aquino ACQ et al. • Clinics (Sao Paulo, Brazil) (2025)
“Bupropion SR 150 mg/b.i.d. is the most effective pharmacological treatment for AISD in women, though the evidence quality is low.”
Huerta Ojeda Á et al. • Nutrients (2024)
“The phytochemical compounds of LmW, mainly macamides, increase physical performance, showing a greater effect at higher doses (dose-response effect).”
Chen R et al. • Phytotherapy research : PTR (2021)
“Nevertheless, due to individual differences and limitations of the subjects, further high-quality studies are needed to confirm the clinical efficacy of the plant.”
Raffa N et al. • International journal of molecular sciences (2019)
“Considering that the host uses copper as a microbial toxin and copper availability fluctuates in various environmental niches, understanding how A. fumigatus maintains copper homeostasis will give insights into mechanisms that facilitate the development of invasive aspergillosis and its survival in nature.”
Saric S et al. • International journal of molecular sciences (2016)
“However, current studies are limited and further research is necessary to evaluate the efficacy, mechanism of action, and potential side effects of various forms and concentrations of polyphenols.”
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