Maca Root: Clinical Evidence & Substantiation Summary
What Is Maca Root?
Maca (Lepidium meyenii) is a Peruvian cruciferous root vegetable traditionally used to enhance energy, stamina, and reproductive health. Clinical research supports its effects on libido, mood, and menopausal symptom relief.
Mechanism of action: Maca does not directly affect hormone levels but appears to act on the hypothalamic-pituitary axis, modulating endocrine function. Its active compounds include macamides, macaenes, and glucosinolates that influence neurotransmitter activity and energy metabolism.
Clinical Evidence Summary
Below are 3 key clinical studies on Maca Root. Nutra Comp analyses 22+ studies in its full clinical evidence report.
Maca and sexual desire: a systematic review
Population: 5 RCTs
Key finding: Maca supplementation significantly improved sexual desire after at least 6 weeks (p<0.05), regardless of sex or menopausal status.
Maca root for menopausal symptoms
Population: 45 postmenopausal women
Key finding: 3.3 g/day gelatinised maca reduced menopausal symptoms (Kupperman index) by 34% versus placebo (p<0.01).
Effect of maca on mood and energy in healthy adults
Population: 72 participants
Key finding: Maca supplementation improved energy, mood, and health-related quality of life scores after 12 weeks (p<0.05).
Evidence-Based Structure–Function Claims
Sample FDA-compliant structure–function claims generated by Nutra Comp, each linked to clinical evidence and scored for confidence.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is maca root FDA approved?
Maca is sold as a dietary supplement under DSHEA. It does not require FDA approval. It has a long history of traditional use in Peru.
What are the most studied benefits of maca?
The strongest evidence supports maca for improving sexual desire, menopausal symptom relief, and mood/energy enhancement.
What dosage of maca is used in clinical studies?
Most studies use 1,500–3,000 mg/day of gelatinised maca powder or equivalent extract, typically for 6–12 weeks.
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