Maca

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evidence score

adaptogen

Lepidium meyeniiPeruvian ginsengmaca root+1 more

Maca is a Peruvian cruciferous root vegetable (Lepidium meyenii) grown at high altitude in the Andes. The most replicated evidence is for libido enhancement (multiple RCTs, both sexes), SSRI-induced sexual dysfunction reversal (notable given the population using SSRIs), and semen quality improvement. Evidence for testosterone increase is mixed — most well-controlled trials find no direct androgen elevation despite strong libido effects, suggesting an independent mechanism. Three color variants (yellow, red, black) have distinct phytochemical profiles with yellow being most common and black showing strongest nootropic effects in animal studies.

Evidence

No score yet

Safety

Unknown safety profile

Clinical Status

No formal phase listed

Research Sync

Not synced yet

Dosing

Typical

3000 mg

1500 mgRange5000 mg

Frequencydaily

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Pharmacology

Half-lifeGlucosinolates and macamides: poorly characterized

OnsetLibido effects: 4-8 weeks; energy effects may be acute to 1 week

DurationOngoing with consistent use

Routes

oral

Evidence Score

—

0 studies indexed

Scoring Factors

Volume(40%)—

Quality(30%)—

Sample Size(10%)—

Consistency(10%)—

Replication(5%)—

Recency(5%)—

Evidence Levels

AScore ≥75 with at least 1 meta-analysis and 3+ RCTs

BScore ≥50 with at least 1 RCT or meta-analysis

CScore ≥25 — observational or animal evidence only

DScore <25 — very limited or preclinical data

Plain-English Snapshot

Maca is currently categorized as a adaptogen compound.

Evidence scoring has not been fully computed yet, so interpret this profile as preliminary.

Safety scoring is incomplete. Start conservatively and monitor carefully.

Core mechanism

Macamides inhibit fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH), elevating endocannabinoids; glucosinolates converted to isothiocyanates; monoamine modulation

Practical Context

Strongest current signals

No indexed study summaries yet.