Maca (Lepidium meyenii)
Libido · Andean cruciferous tuber
Tier B
What this is
One of few sexual-function supplements with reasonable positive trial evidence not mediated by hormonal change. Black, red, and yellow varieties have somewhat different effect profiles in Peruvian trials. Take gelatinized form for better digestibility.
Mechanism
Peruvian tuber high in macamides, macaenes, glucosinolates; does NOT affect testosterone or other sex hormones in humans (Gonzales 2003) — mechanism of reported libido/mood effects unclear
Dose & route
1.5-3 g/day dried root powder or equivalent gelatinized extract
Citations
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18801111/
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20861594/
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4020249/
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This is an independent synthesis of published research by a non-clinician. Scores are opinions supported by citations, not prescriptions. See the full disclaimer and methodology for how this score was produced and what it does and doesn't mean.