1. Increased Libido

Maca has been studied over the years for its ability to increase libido and help both men and women overcome sexual dysfunction. Studies show it may improve symptoms of erectile dysfunction and alleviate symptoms of sexual dysfunction in postmenopausal women. (1,2).

Compounds in the root called macamides and macaenes also seem to have aphrodisiac effects on neurotransmitters in the brain, like dopamine and serotonin. Both play a role in feelings of sexual desire, especially in women, and in sexual health. (3)

Finally, the root’s effects on stress and fatigue may also address less obvious aspects of sexual function. The idea is that improving your mental health and how you feel is good for your overall well-being, and that includes sexual desire.

LISTEN: Sex Drive & Deep Sleep Secrets, Hormone Hacking + Anxiety Answers | Lola Priego

2. Improved Mood

Maca’s potential benefits on mental health and mood enhancement come down to its adaptogenic properties. Animal studies show the superfood may act in a similar way to anti-depressants because of its effects on serotonin and oxidative stress. (4)

Older studies show it’s particularly beneficial in reducing both depressive symptoms and blood pressure in postmenopausal women. (5)

3. Increased Fertility

One of the most well-studied aspects of the use of maca supplementation is related to its effects on male fertility. Studies show it may boost not only sperm count and motility but also semen quality, and it may reverse the effects of low testosterone in aging men. (6,7)

Low testosterone levels don't just impact sexual function and infertility. They can increase fatigue, body fat, brain fog, and mood changes.

For women, maca may have potential as an alternative treatment for healthy ovary function, particularly as women age, but those effects are limited to animal studies for now. (8)

4. Enhanced Energy and Endurance

Maca may impact energy levels thanks to its effects on stress, hormonal imbalances, and metabolism. (9) One of my favorite things about maca is that it gives you that boost without leaving you jittery, making it the perfect option if you’re sensitive to caffeine in coffee and tea.

The root is also popular with athletes. Limited studies show maca may speed up your body’s healing responses after strenuous exercise and boost endurance thanks to its potential effects on energy metabolism. (10)

5. Improved Menopause Symptoms

One of the biggest benefits of maca root for women is its effects on estrogen. That has made it a popular alternative to hormone therapies that address hormonal imbalances. Studies show it may help relieve symptoms like hot flashes, fatigue, sleep issues, and mood changes. (11)

6. Inhibited Free Radical Damage

Maca’s high antioxidant activity means it can help your body fight free radical damage. (12) Free radicals can cause damage to your cells if they’re left unchecked. That can put you a risk for accelerated aging and diseases like cancer, heart disease, and autoimmune conditions.

Maca is also rich in glucosinolates, a type of metabolite associated with a reduced risk of cancer and tumor formation. Mustard, cabbage, and broccoli are great sources, too. (13)

7. Enhanced Immune Health

Vitamin C is a known immune system booster, but it takes balanced nutrition to boost overall wellness and immune health. Maca has a dense nutritional profile that includes fiber, essential amino acids, fatty aids, iron, calcium, and vitamin C. (14)

8. Reduced Inflammation

Many of maca’s potential effects come back to its role as an anti-inflammatory. Studies show maca’s effects on inflammation may support bone health, skin healing, metabolic function, and adrenal health, for starters. (15, 16)

While maca isn’t directly connected to weight loss, addressing adrenal stress and reducing chronic inflammation can help prevent weight gain over time.

Inflammation is at the root of so much that ails us. Learn more about simple daily actions that both feed and fight inflammation in my book, The Inflammation Spectrum.

9. Boosted Cognitive Function

Maca’s antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects may have positive effects on memory and learning as we age. Initial studies in mice showed improvements in cognitive function with maca powder supplementation. (17)

While the jury’s still out on what that means for us, we do know that stress and fatigue can interfere with your ability to perform (and think) at your best. If maca helps you address both, that can only mean good things for your cognition.

Are you ready to get to the root of your symptoms? Functional medicine can help. As one of the first functional medicine telehealth clinics in the world, we provide webcam health consultations and personalized medical advice for people around the globe. 

Potential Side Effects & Who Shouldn’t Take It

As you consider maca root pros and cons, know that it’s generally safe for most adults. Some have reported headaches, gut discomfort, moodiness, and insomnia, but it’s unclear whether the maca itself caused those. Taking it with food may alleviate any possible effects.

As far as who shouldn't take maca root, you need to consider that maca has a similar effect to estrogen. Talk to your healthcare provider before taking it if you have conditions affected by hormonal shifts or are taking medications for hormonal conditions.

That includes breast, uterine, or ovarian cancer, uterine fibroids, endometriosis, or thyroid problems. If you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, avoid supplementing with maca root unless directed by a healthcare provider.

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