Maca: The Root of Energy, Libido and Hormonal Balance

If I had to think of a plant that can arouse curiosity in the scientific community and, at the same time, great passion among those seeking natural solutions for hormonal health, that plant would definitely be maca . Or, to be more precise, maca root ( Lepidium meyenii ).

Welcome to this journey to the land of the Incas, where this root has its origins. I am Dr. Luca Leoni , a doctor, but I like to call myself a health explorer , because thanks to my studies in medicine and psychoneuroendocrinoimmunology , I am constantly looking for techniques, strategies and natural ingredients for the well-being of the mind and body.

Today I want to take you to discover a plant that has been used for centuries to increase physical resistance, improve libido and support metabolism and hormonal balance , with a special focus on testosterone, menopause and sports performance . And, as always, everything will be rigorously supported by scientific studies , which I will link to throughout the article.

Maca and Libido: A Natural Aphrodisiac?

One of the main reasons the Western world began investigating maca is its supposed aphrodisiac properties . And science backs it up.

A large, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled scientific trial compared red maca, black maca, and a placebo in people living at different altitudes. Results? Sexual desire increased significantly in the maca group. This study here says so .

In addition, maca has shown another unexpected effect: a reduction in altitude sickness . If you're planning on climbing Everest this weekend, you might want to consider it!

But let's get back to libido . One of the most important studies, dating back to the 2000s, tested maca for 12 weeks and highlighted an increase in subjective sexual well-being , without however significantly altering hormonal profiles. This study says so here .

And that’s interesting: more desire, but without a marked impact on testosterone levels . So, it’s not necessarily true that maca works by directly increasing testosterone, but it could work through other mechanisms.

Another intriguing point? Improved libido in people with sexual dysfunction related to antidepressant use . A 12-week study found that those taking maca reported improved sexual desire and erections. This study here says so .

We're not talking about huge numbers, but the results fuel maca's reputation as the root of love .

Maca and Testosterone: Is It Really a Booster?

Classic question: Does maca increase testosterone?

Studies say no ! In many controlled studies, improved libido did not go hand in hand with large increases in testosterone. This study here says so, and this one here too.

This last study, in particular, evaluated a population of Caucasian men with mild erectile dysfunction . Result? Maca improved sexual well-being more than the placebo , but without altering testosterone levels.

So, if you are looking for a powerful hormone booster, maca is not for you. Rather, it seems to influence the sexual sphere more on a sensorial level , probably thanks to specific bioactive compounds such as alkaloids present in the root .

That said, many people still report an increase in vigor, energy, and stamina . Even if hormone tests don't show any spikes, their perception of sexual and mental well-being increases .

Maca and metabolism: effects on blood sugar, blood pressure and lipids

In the aforementioned large 2016 study (you can find it here ), the researchers also evaluated some metabolic parameters .

A possible effect of maca on reducing blood sugar levels emerges, although we certainly cannot say that it can cure diabetes . However, it seems to give a little help.

As regards blood pressure , however, there were no significant differences compared to the placebo .

Interestingly, hemoglobin increased in high-altitude subjects , suggesting that maca may improve the body's adaptability to high altitudes .

Other studies on different populations also suggest a trend towards improved lipid profiles . A study on post-menopausal women found an increase in HDL (good cholesterol) . This study here says so.

Maca and menopause: a natural aid for symptoms?

Menopause is a stage in life where the body goes through a series of hormonal changes that can affect overall well-being. Many women, around the age of 50 , begin to experience symptoms such as:

• Hot flashes , which may come on suddenly during the day or night.
• Mood swings , with increased susceptibility to stress and irritability.
• Insomnia , difficulty falling asleep or frequent night awakenings.
• Decreased libido , often associated with reduced estrogen levels.

The question is: can maca offer help at this stage of life?

A randomized, double-blind study published in the International Journal of Biomedical Science analyzed 42 perimenopausal women , giving them 300 mg of maca extract per day. The results showed an increase in estradiol levels in the group taking maca, suggesting a possible supportive effect on hormonal balance. This study says so here .

Another study in postmenopausal women found that maca supplementation was associated with a reduction in menopausal symptoms , particularly hot flashes and sleep disturbances. This study says so here .

Even more interesting is a third study, conducted on 102 post-menopausal women , in which participants alternated the intake of maca and a placebo. Results? Reduction of menopausal symptoms and improvements in hormonal parameters , with a decrease in FSH and an increase in estradiol. This study here says so.

Now, it is important to clarify that maca does not replace hormone replacement therapy , which remains the reference treatment for women with severe menopausal symptoms. However, it can represent a gentle support , especially for those looking for a natural alternative to manage less intense symptoms of menopause, improving energy, mood and libido .

Maca and Sports: Does It Really Improve Performance?

Another interesting aspect of maca concerns its possible impact on physical and sports performance . Some Andean populations have used it for centuries to increase strength, resistance and vitality , but what does science say about it?

A study tested maca on experienced cyclists , evaluating parameters such as endurance and recovery times. The results showed that maca did not significantly improve sports performance compared to the placebo. However, another curious fact emerged: an increase in sexual desire in the participants . This study says so here .

This suggests that maca is not a natural doping , in the classic sense of the term, but could have an effect on motivation and psychophysical drive . In other words, it does not directly enhance muscular performance, but could promote greater mental energy and a better predisposition to physical activity .

Which maca to choose? Dosages and methods of taking

If you have decided to give maca a try, it is important to know that there are several different forms available :

• Powder , which can be added to smoothies, yogurt or drinks.
• Capsules , practical and easy to take.
• Extracts , more concentrated than powder.

Studies have tested varying dosages , with interesting results:

• 1.5 – 3 g per day for powder.
• 300 mg per day for concentrated extracts.

In general, the best effects on energy, libido and metabolic parameters are observed after 8-12 weeks of continuous use .

It should be emphasized that maca has no particular contraindications , but if you suffer from hypertension, complex hormonal problems or cardiovascular diseases , it is always best to consult a doctor before starting a supplement.

Conclusion: Is Maca Really Helpful?

After analyzing scientific studies and the experiences of those who use it, we can say that maca is not a magic formula , but it is a very interesting natural adaptogen . The most promising effects are seen on:

• Stimulation of libido , both in men and women.
• Support for some symptoms of menopause , such as hot flashes, tiredness and decreased desire.
• Perception of greater energy and psychophysical well-being , without the side effects of more aggressive stimulants.

If you decide to try it, always choose a quality product , preferably organic and certified.