Maca
- Latin
- Lepidium meyenii
Maca is a Peruvian food and supplement promoted for energy, fertility, sexual function, and menopausal symptoms. Human studies remain limited, preparations vary by color and processing, and current evidence does not support broad hormone or performance claims.
Also Known As
Latin: Lepidium meyenii
Traditional Context
Maca is not a classical Traditional Chinese Medicine material. It is a high-altitude Andean food and medicine with a distinct Peruvian tradition.
Primary Actions
- Traditionally used as a food for stamina and fertility
- Traditionally used to support sexual function
Secondary Actions
- Used in Peruvian food preparations as well as supplements
Classical References
- Andean and Peruvian food-medicine traditions
Modern Research
Active Compounds
- Macamides
- Macaenes
- Glucosinolates
- Polyphenols
- Sterols
Studied Effects
- Semen-quality measures, with small and heterogeneous studies
- Physical performance, with limited human evidence
- Menopausal and sexual-function outcomes, without firm conclusions
PubMed References
Safety & Interactions
Contraindications
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding without medical guidance
- Hormone-sensitive breast or uterine cancer without oncology review
Cautions
- Human safety data remain limited despite maca's history as a food.
- Altered menstrual cycles, insomnia, gastritis, and mood changes have been reported.
- Maca may interfere with testosterone immunoassays.
Drug Interactions
A maca and losartan interaction has been observed in hypertensive rats, but clinical relevance is not known. The larger concerns are limited medication data, possible hormone-related effects, and interference with testosterone laboratory testing.
- Losartan and possibly other blood pressure medicines … Maca enhanced losartan's blood-pressure-lowering effect in rats. Human relevance is not known. (Uncertain) Source: Memorial Sloan Kettering About Herbs
Conditions
- Infertility Research ★★☆☆☆ JSON
- Menopausal Symptoms Research ★☆☆☆☆ JSON
- Fatigue Traditional ★★☆☆☆ JSON
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Maca used for?
Maca is traditionally used to Traditionally used as a food for stamina and fertility, Traditionally used to support sexual function. Research has investigated its effects on: Semen-quality measures, with small and heterogeneous studies; Physical performance, with limited human evidence.
What are other names for Maca?
Maca is also known as Peruvian Maca, Lepidium peruvianum, Maca-maca. In TCM: Lepidium meyenii.
Is Maca safe during pregnancy?
The safety of Maca during pregnancy has not been established. Consult a qualified healthcare provider before use.
What are the contraindications for Maca?
Maca should not be used in: Pregnancy or breastfeeding without medical guidance; Hormone-sensitive breast or uterine cancer without oncology review. Consult a qualified healthcare provider before use.
Does Maca interact with any medications?
Maca may interact with: Losartan and possibly other blood pressure medicines - Maca enhanced losartan's blood-pressure-lowering effect in rats. Human relevance is not known. - (Uncertain severity). Always inform your healthcare provider of any herbal supplements you are taking.