Maca is an herb that’s been used as a food and natural medicine for thousands of years. A couple of studies suggest taking maca supplements may improve energy, mood, and sex drive. (1) Though, these health claims are not fully supported, and researchers are still looking at how it impacts health in both men and women.
If you’re interested in taking maca supplements, it can take time to narrow down a product to meet your specific health needs and goals. To make your shopping process easier, our team of nutrition professionals analyzed dozens of maca products using criteria such as dose, clinical effectiveness, and customer reviews to narrow down the best supplements.
Here are our picks for the best maca root supplements of 2024.
Our picks for the best maca root supplement
- Best overall: Double Wood Maca Root Supplement
- Best for libido: Nutricost Organic Maca Root Powder
- Best for men: Anthony’s Organic Maca Root Powder
- Best organic: Zen Spirit Maca Root Powder
Compare maca root supplements
Double Wood Maca Root Supplement | Nutricost Organic Maca Root Powder | Anthony’s Organic Maca Root Powder | Zen Spirit Maca Root Powder | |
Rating | ||||
Cost per serving | $0.13 | $0.06 | $0.19 | $0.61 |
Dosage | 1,000 mg | 1,000 mg | 5,000 mg | 8,500 mg |
Form | Capsules | Powder | Powder | Powder |
Best maca root supplement overall: Double Wood Maca Root Supplement
Key product features
What you should know
Double Wood Maca Root Supplement offers 1,000 milligrams (mg) of maca root in two capsules, making it a convenient choice for those looking to support their health with a high-quality supplement. (1)
- We like that Double Wood Maca Root Supplement comes in capsule form and that Double Wood offers a Certificate of Analysis (COA) for all of their products.
- At $0.11 per serving, this product is the second most affordable choice in our roundup.
- Double Wood Maca Root Supplement capsules can be taken once or multiple times per day based on your needs, making it a good choice for households with different dosing needs and for those who want to experiment with dosing to support their overall health.
Why we like Double Wood Maca Root Supplement as best overall
Double Wood Maca Root Supplement is third-party tested, affordable, and comes in capsule form, which is why it’s our choice for the best maca supplement overall of 2024.
Each two-capsule serving offers 1,000 milligrams (mg) of maca root powder. Though this serving size is lower than doses of maca root shown to be effective in research studies, you can adjust your dose based on your needs.
For example, some research suggests that taking around 3,000 mg of maca per day for 12 weeks may improve energy, mood, and sex drive in women taking antidepressants (3, 4). Another study found the same dose, 3,000 mg, effective at both 8 and 12 weeks but this time in otherwise healthy males vs. females in the previously mentioned study. (5) To date, the health claims of maca cannot be fully supported from a scientific standpoint,, and some think the traditional knowledge of maca’s health benefits may have been adapted to meet the growing demand for herbal remedies. (6)
The capsule form of Double Wood Maca Supplement is helpful for managing dosing and it’s convenient for those who prefer capsule-based supplements over powders or liquids, or those looking for an easy on-the-go option.
“Maca has a pretty earthy flavor that some enjoy, but others may not prefer,” explains Chris Mohr, PhD, RD. “The capsule version makes it more palatable to those who may find the powdered root difficult or distasteful to put in smoothies, oatmeal, or most anything else.”
Double Wood Maca Root Supplement is rigorously tested for safety, and Double Wood offers a Certificate of Analysis (COA) for all of their products on their website. COAs are documents that verify a supplement has undergone testing and meets specific quality and safety standards. Double Wood Maca Supplement is tested for contaminants like molds and heavy metals, so you can rest assured that you’re consuming a safe product. COAs also confirm the amount of ingredients you’re actually getting in the supplement; and in this case, Double Wood’s maca tested at exactly 1,000 mg in a serving.
This product is also vegan-friendly and free from GMOs and major allergens like gluten and soy.
At $0.13 per serving, this product is the second most affordable product in our roundup, which is another major plus, especially for those on a budget. To save even more money, customers can sign up for a subscription for 20% off their purchase.
What customers are saying
On Amazon, Double Wood Maca Root Supplement has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from over 2,000 reviews. Customers love the product’s price point, and many customer reviews mention that taking the supplement has benefited their energy levels, mood, and overall health.
Though most reviews are positive, a few mention that the supplement gave them gastrointestinal issues. Amazon reviewer Ricky writes, “I’ve been taking it for about two weeks and as of the last week I’ve had terrible gas pains and bloating. I discontinued use.”
Specs
Serving size | Two capsules |
Servings per container | 150 |
Price per serving | $0.13 |
Maca per serving | 1,000 mg |
Third-party tested | Yes |
Best maca root supplement for libido: Nutricost Organic Maca Root Powder
Key product features
What you should know
Nutricost Organic Maca Root Powder is certified organic and comes in a convenient powder form that can be easily mixed into drinks, like smoothies, for a natural way to help increase libido. (2)
- We like that Nutricost Organic Maca Root Powder is affordable, comes in an adjustable powdered form, and is third-party tested for quality and purity.
- At $0.04 per serving, this product is the most affordable option in our roundup.
- Nutricost Organic Maca Root Powder can be added to drinks and recipes like oatmeal, which makes it a good option for those looking for an easy way to potentially improve their libido and for those who can’t tolerate swallowing pills.
Why we like Nutricost Organic Maca Root Powder as best for libido
Nutricost Organic Maca Root is our pick for the best maca root supplement for libido as it comes in an easy-to-take powder form that can be customized to your intake needs. Women who were diagnosed with antidepressant-induced sexual dysfunction (ASID) and men showed a significant increase in libido after 8 and 12 weeks. (5, 6)
Low sex drive, known as low libido in the medical field, is a common condition that impacts men and women. Low sex drive can be caused by a variety of factors, including mental health conditions, hormonal fluctuations, and medication side effects. (5) Though they’re not always effective, natural remedies, like maca root, may have a beneficial impact on sex drive based on some existing data. (5, 6)
Studies show that maca may improve certain symptoms of low libido, such as reduced sexual desire, in some people. One study on women who were experiencing antidepressant-induced sexual dysfunction (AISD) found that the women who took 3,000 mg of maca root per day for 12 weeks experienced significant improvements in their sexual functioning, including sexual interest and arousal, compared to women who were given a placebo. (6) Yet, these studies were not conclusive.
Research also suggests that maca may improve sexual function in men with hypogonadism. Commonly referred to as low testosterone, hypogonadism is a medical condition that occurs when testosterone levels fall below 300 nanograms per deciliter (ng/dL). Hypogonadism can cause a number of unpleasant symptoms, including loss of sexual desire. A recent study that included men with self-reported symptoms of hypogonadism found that the men who took 5,000 mg of maca per day for 12 weeks experienced significant improvements in their sex drive compared to the placebo group. (7)
Though maca’s mechanism of action isn’t fully understood, it’s thought that compounds found in maca root, including macamides, macaenes, and maca alkaloids, interact with and modulate certain hormones, neurotransmitters, and pathways in the body, which can result in health benefits, such as improved libido, giving it the alias, the ‘plant viagra’ though it’s potential benefits seem to reach both men and women alike (2, 6)
Because different doses of maca have been shown to be effective for improving libido in men and women, choosing a powdered supplement like Nutricost Organic Maca Root allows you to easily adjust your dose based on your needs.
Each 1 gram (g) scoop contains 1,000 mg of maca root. Depending on your needs, you can take multiple doses of this supplement per day. Nutricost Organic Maca Root comes in a powdered form that can be easily mixed into drinks, like juices and smoothies, or added to recipes like oatmeal or energy bites.
In addition to its convenient powdered form, Nutricost Organic Maca Root is certified organic and is free from gluten, soy, GMOs, and artificial colors and flavors.
Nutricost Organic Maca Root costs just $0.04 per serving, making it the most affordable option in our roundup. Even though it’s budget-friendly, Nutricost doesn’t skimp when it comes to safety. Like all of their supplements, Nutricost Organic Maca Root is third-party tested for quality, purity, and safety.
If you prefer automatic deliveries, you can sign up for a subscription to save an additional 20% on your purchase.
What customers are saying
On Amazon Nutricost Organic Maca has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from over 390 reviews. Customer reviews mention that the product works well, is easy to mix into drinks, and tastes great. Customers also seem happy with the low price of the product.
However, some reviews mention issues with quality control.
“The seal was broken when I got it and it smells funky. I don’t know if it’s mold or something else, but I couldn’t even get a refund for this. Zero stars if possible,” comments Amazon customer Shannon Russel.
Specs
Serving size | One scoop (1 g) |
Servings per container | 454 |
Price per serving | $0.04 |
Maca per serving | 1,000 mg |
Third-party tested | Yes |
Best maca root supplement for men: Anthony’s Organic Maca Root Powder
Key product features
What you should know
Providing 5,000 mg of certified organic, gelatinized maca root per serving, Anthony’s Organic Maca Root Powder is a good option for men who require a higher dose of maca. (7)
- We love that Anthony’s Organic Maca Root Powder is certified organic and is gelatinized for potentially better absorption.
- At $0.19 per serving, this product is a bit more expensive than other supplements on the market. Plus, Anthony’s doesn’t offer a subscription discount on their products.
- Anthony’s Organic Maca Root Powder contains a higher dose of maca root per serving than many other products, which may be appropriate for supporting certain aspects of men’s health. (5)
Why we like Anothony’s Organic Maca Root Powder as best for men
Anthony’s Organic Maca Root Powder contains a higher dose of maca root per serving than many other products, which may be appropriate for supporting certain aspects of men’s health. Studies show that maca root supplements may offer specific benefits for men, such as improved sexual function, exercise performance, and energy levels. (2, 5)
Most of the studies investigating maca’s impact on men’s health have used relatively high doses of maca root providing around 3,000 mg per day. (2, 5)
Anthony’s Organic Maca Root Powder is a powdered maca supplement with a recommended serving size of one teaspoon or 5,000 mg of maca. This dose can be adjusted to reach smaller serving sizes that have still been shown to support men’s health by using smaller measuring spoons, if desired. For example, taking a quarter teaspoon of Anthony’s Organic Maca Root Powder in the morning and a third of a teaspoon at night will deliver a total dose of around 3,000 mg, which is a dose that’s supported by some research for the desired outcomes. (4, 6)
Studies show that when taken in 3,000-5,000 mg daily doses for around 12 weeks, maca may help support men’s health by improving symptoms of low testosterone, such as fatigue and low sex drive. (2, 5, 7)
For example, the study that included men with self-reported symptoms of hypogonadism mentioned above found that a dose of 5,000 mg of maca per day for 12 weeks was effective for improving sex drive. (7)
A 2020 study also found that men who took 2,000 mg of maca for 12 weeks showed a significant improvement in sperm concentration compared to men treated with a placebo. Low sperm concentration, or the number of sperm per milliliter of semen, is linked with male infertility.
However, keep in mind that while a few studies have found that maca may improve certain aspects of men’s health, not all studies have found maca to be effective for men’s health issues, like infertility. It’s best to check with your healthcare provider before adding maca to your wellness routine. (2)
Nonetheless, maca supplements, like Anthony’s Organic Maca Root Powder, may be an effective and natural way for some men to support their overall health, including their sexual health. (9)
In addition to being able to easily adjust the dose, the gelatinized powder in Anthony’s Organic Maca Root Powder might be easier for your body to break down and digest than other forms of maca root. Though research comparing the effects of gelatinized versus non-gelatinized maca on health is limited, some research suggests that gelatinized maca is easier to digest and less likely to cause side effects, such as bloating, stomach upset, and gas. (9)
Anthony’s Organic Maca Root Powder is also certified organic, gluten-free, non-GMO, and vegan.
However, this supplement isn’t third-party tested, which is disappointing as third-party testing helps ensure that supplements are free from harmful contaminants and meet specific safety and quality standards.
Anthony’s Organic Maca Root Powder costs $0.19 per serving, which is more expensive than most of the other products in our roundup. Although this makes sense as the product contains a high dose of maca root per serving, we’d love to see Anthony’s offer a discount for subscription purchases to make the product more affordable.
What customers are saying
Anthony’s has a loyal customer following and most reviews on Amazon are positive. The product has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from over 4,000 customer reviews. Customers love the quality of the easy-to-take powder and some male customers report that the product has improved their libido.
However, some customers aren’t a fan of the supplement’s taste.
Amazon customer Brandi wrote, “I hate the scent and taste of this one! It overpowers everrrrythingggg you put it into.”
Specs
Serving size | One teaspoon (5 g) |
Servings per container | 90 |
Price per serving | $0.19 |
Maca per serving | 5,000 mg |
Third-party tested | No |
Best organic maca root supplement: Zen Spirit Maca Root Powder
Key product features
What you should know
Zen Spirit Maca Root Powder is certified organic, vegan, and comes in a convenient powder form that can be used in a number of ways in the kitchen.
- We love that Zen Spirit Maca Root Powder is made with certified organic maca root from the Peruvian Andes and can be mixed into smoothies and other recipes.
- This product is the most expensive option in our roundup, costing $0.61 per serving.
- Zen Spirit Maca Root Powder is certified organic, making it an excellent option for people following organic diets and those who are concerned about contaminants in their supplements.
Why we like Zen Spirit Maca Root Powder as best organic
For people who follow organic diets, finding certified organic dietary supplements can be challenging. Fortunately, there are several companies that offer organic maca products. Zen Spirit Maca Root Powder is a certified organic maca powder made with maca root sourced from organic farms in the Peruvian Andes.
In order to be certified organic by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), a product must be grown according to federal guidelines for soil quality, pesticide use, and more. In addition to being free from synthetic pesticides, certified organic products must be free from artificial preservatives, flavors, and colors. (10)
Most people are interested in organic foods because of the potential perks of reduced exposure to pesticides and a potentially lower risk of developing health conditions like certain cancers, infertility, and allergies. (11, 11) That said, the long-term data confirming such promise are limited, with other data suggesting that pesticide exposure from fruits and vegetables is not associated with any cancer risk. (13)
In addition to being certified organic, Zen Spirit Maca Root Powder is gluten-free, vegan, and provides essential vitamins and minerals, such as B vitamins, manganese, and copper. For example, one serving of Zen Spirit Maca Root Powder provides 11% of the daily value for manganese, a mineral needed for immune function, bone formation, and blood clotting. (14)
However, keep in mind that the recommended serving size of one heaping teaspoon for Zen Spirit Maca Root Powder contains a maca dose that is much higher than the doses used in research studies. This serving size provides 8,500 mg of maca, which may not be appropriate or safe for everyone. Most studies have used treatments providing around 3,000 mg or sometimes 5,000 mg of maca root per day, but it’s unclear if higher doses are safe, especially for long-term use. (2)
Another downside of this product is that it’s not third-party tested. At $0.61 per serving, Zen Spirit Maca Root Powder is the most expensive product in our roundup. We would like to see third-party testing for this price point. However, using half a teaspoon would still provide a substantial 4,250 mg of maca and bring the price down to a more reasonable $0.30 per serving.
This certified organic product can be added to smoothies, baked goods, oatmeal, and other recipes, making it a convenient option for those who want to add maca to foods and drinks and use it in cooking and baking.
What customers are saying
On Amazon, Zen Spirit has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from over 11,000 customer reviews. Amazon customers like the quality, taste, and convenience of Zen Spirit Maca Root Powder.
Positive customer reviews mention that the product has a fresh taste and that it’s easy to mix into smoothies and other recipes.
However, some reviews mention that Zen Spirit Maca Powder’s taste is too strong for them.
“I don’t like the taste… no matter how I doctor it.. It’s chalky and powdery. You can taste it. I haven’t tried it hot, but I’m afraid that might strengthen the smell so not sure I will try it. I gave it to a friend. Not sure how they liked it,” wrote an Amazon customer with the username “Ladybug.“
Specs
Serving size | One heaping teaspoon (8,500 mg) |
Servings per container | 26 |
Price per serving | $0.61 |
Maca per serving | 8,500 mg |
Third-party tested | No |
Our supplement testing methodology
We understand that narrowing down the best maca root supplement for your health needs and goals can be challenging. To make the process easier, our team analyzed dozens of maca supplements, using criteria like form, dose, product quality, and price to find the best on the market.
Learn more about each factor on our full supplements testing methodology page.
Here’s how we evaluated the maca supplements in this piece.
Efficacy—40%
Our team analyzes each supplement, considering the type and source of maca used, the clinical evidence backing its potential health benefits, dose efficacy, and more. Here’s what we look at to find the most effective maca supplements:
- Clinical evidence
- Dose efficacy
- Synergistic effects
- Proprietary blends
Safety and side effects—35%
We take supplement safety seriously and rigorously research products to ensure the maca supplements we recommend are generally considered safe for healthy people to take and are not associated with serious side effects or health risks.
Here’s what we look for when assessing supplement safety:
- Third-party testing
- Potentially harmful ingredients
- Reported side effects
- Inappropriate doses
- Medication interactions
- Dangerous or inappropriate label claims
Value—20%
We understand that everyone has a different budget and do our best to include affordable and high-quality products.
Our factors in this rating include:
- Price per serving
Customer experience—5%
Our team looks at every part of the customer experience, taking into account overall product satisfaction, reported side effects, customer support, and more.
Our factors in this rating include:
- Ease of purchase
- Shipping and returns
- Customer support
What is maca root?
Maca (Lepidium meyenii) is a plant that’s native to South America. It grows at high altitudes between 13,123 and 14,764 feet in the Andean regions of Peru and Bolivia. Maca belongs to the Brassicaceae or Cruciferae plant family, which also includes radishes, turnips, kale, broccoli, and arugula. (15)
The root of the maca plant is edible and rich in fiber, amino acids, and vitamins and minerals like zinc, manganese, and B vitamins. It’s also high in beneficial plant compounds such as macamides, macaenes, macaridine, and maca alkaloids, which are thought to be responsible for most of maca’s health benefits. (15)
There are several types of maca that range in color from white to black, each with different concentrations and types of nutrients and plant compounds. For example, red maca is higher in the mineral potassium than black maca, while black maca is a better source of iron. (16) Levels of plant compounds, like macamides, also vary depending on maca color. Though these variations may impact the health effects of maca root, there’s not enough evidence to suggest that certain maca types are superior to others for improving specific health conditions or enhancing overall health (15, 16)
Like other root vegetables, maca can be cooked and enjoyed mashed or cooked and dried to create flour that can be made into baked goods, like breads.
Maca has been used for thousands of years as a food and natural medicine by the Andean population. For example, the Andean people often used maca root to enhance fertility and increase energy levels. (15)
Though maca can be consumed as a vegetable, in the U.S., maca is most commonly used as a dietary supplement to get the therapeutic dose needed.
Benefits of maca root supplements
Taking maca supplements may support health in several ways, such as enhancing mood and improving libido as it’s often referred to as “plant viagra.” (15)
It’s important to note that scientists aren’t fully sure how maca works, but its benefits are likely related to its concentration of unique plant compounds, including macamides and maca alkaloids. These compounds, which are specific to maca, are thought to interact with certain systems and hormones in the body, which may support and improve health in several ways. (15)
May improve libido
Maca has been used as a natural libido-enhancer for thousands of years by the Andean people. (15)
Studies show that taking maca may support a healthy sex drive by indirectly modulating certain hormones, such as luteinizing hormone and follicle-stimulating hormone. However, scientists are still figuring out how maca may improve libido in men and women, and the exact mechanism behind maca’s potential sexual health benefits or dosing necessary for said benefit is still unclear since different studies have found different results. (2, 5, 7)
A few studies have shown that maca supplements may improve sex drive in both men and women and seem to be particularly effective for improving low libido caused by antidepressants. (6)
Antidepressant-induced sexual dysfunction (AISD) is a complication that impacts around half of people taking selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) or serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) to treat mental health conditions like depression. (6)
Two studies found that treatment with maca in doses of 3,000 mg per day was effective for improving sexual function in women, including increased sexual activity and more enjoyable sexual experiences. (5, 17)
Limited evidence suggests that maca supplements may also improve sexual function in men. A 2023 study found that men with self-reported symptoms related to low testosterone experienced significant improvements in their sex drive after taking 3,000 mg (5), while others showed 5,000 mg of maca per day for 12 weeks was an effective dose, in a particular subset of the population. (7)
Though these results are promising, human studies investigating the effects of maca on libido are limited, and more research is needed to understand how maca can be used as a natural treatment to improve sexual health.
May improve certain aspects of men’s health
Maca supplements may improve certain symptoms experienced by many men.
A 2023 study found that supplementation with 5,000 mg of maca per day for 12 weeks significantly improved symptoms like low sex drive, erectile dysfunction, and fatigue in men with self-reported symptoms of low testosterone. Though the study found that maca supplementation improved symptoms related to low testosterone, it’s important to note that the treatment did not increase blood levels of testosterone in the study participants. (7)
Like most other purported health benefits of maca, scientists don’t know how maca works in the body to improve these symptoms, but it’s likely due to compounds found in maca interacting with certain hormones and pathways in the body. (7)
Limited evidence also suggests that maca may improve sperm concentration, which may support fertility outcomes. (8) However, not all studies have found maca to be effective for improving sperm concentration or other markers of male fertility. In fact, a 2022 review of five studies found that maca wasn’t effective for increasing sperm concentration compared to placebo treatments and concluded that there’s currently not enough evidence to recommend maca for improving semen quality parameters in men. (18)
May enhance mood and energy
Maca has been used as a natural mood-booster and stimulant for thousands of years by people in the Andean region. It may improve mood by acting on certain neurotransmitters, like γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which has calming and mood-regulating effects, and combat fatigue by improving energy creation in your cells and reducing inflammation and oxidative stress. (3, 5, 19)
A study that included people living at either low or high altitudes found that participants who were supplemented with 3 g of red or black maca extract per day for 12 weeks experienced improvements in mood and energy scores compared to those who took a placebo. (5)
Other studies have shown that maca supplements may have energy-boosting effects in men with self-reported symptoms of low testosterone and may improve depression scores in postmenopausal women. Of note, the latter study was a pilot study with less than 30 women, so more research is warranted to replicate these findings. (8, 21)
Though maca may have mood and energy-boosting potential, it’s important to note that there’s not enough evidence to recommend maca as a treatment for any type of mood or mental health disorder, like depression. If you have depression or are struggling with low mood, you should speak with a qualified healthcare provider before adding any supplement to your routine.
How to choose the best maca root supplement
As with any supplement, it’s important to choose high-quality maca products from trusted companies whenever possible.
Though not common, there have been reports of maca products being diluted with materials like corn, wheat, and yam powders. (17) This is why it’s always best to choose high-quality maca supplements that have undergone third-party testing for purity, quality, and potential contaminants whenever possible.
In addition to supplement safety, you should also consider your budget, dietary preferences, and specific health needs.
For example, people with food allergies and those who follow specific diets should choose products that are free from major allergens and suit their dietary and health preferences. It’s also essential to consider dosing. Recommended dosing of maca varies, but most studies suggest that doses of around 3 grams per day often show benefits, are safe and aren’t associated with significant side effects. (3)
Lastly, maca isn’t safe or appropriate for everyone, which is why it’s always best to consult your healthcare provider before adding maca to your wellness routine.
Maca root supplements safety and side effects
When used appropriately and taken in recommended doses, maca is considered to be safe for most people.
Most research studies investigating the safety and health effects of maca have used supplements providing doses up to 3 g per day for four months. (20)
Higher doses, such as 5,000 mg per day, have been used without incident. However, it’s recommended to keep your maca intake below 3 g (3,000 mg) per day to avoid potential side effects and health risks. (7)
Maca has been shown to trigger side effects in some people, most of which are mild. (20)
Side effects of maca include: (9, 24)
- Headache
- Nausea
- Bloating
- Upset stomach
- Insomnia
- Irregular periods
In addition to being associated with short-term side effects, maca supplements may be unsafe for certain populations.
Because maca supplements haven’t been proven safe to use in pregnant or breastfeeding women, it’s recommended to avoid using maca supplements during these stages of life. Additionally, because maca may interact with hormones, like estrogen, people with estrogen-sensitive health conditions, like certain breast cancers and uterine cancer, should avoid maca supplements. (21)
Also, it’s important to note that while maca does have research to back up its safety and potential health benefits, human research is still relatively limited, especially in vulnerable populations like people with certain illnesses and older adults. If you have one or more health conditions or are an older person, it’s always a good idea to consult a healthcare provider before taking supplements, especially herbal supplements like maca.
Lastly, people taking one or more medications should speak with their healthcare provider before taking maca. While maca hasn’t been known to interact with common medications, it’s always best to clear any supplement changes with your doctor to ensure safety. (21, 23)
FAQs
What is the difference between red and black maca root?
There are several types of maca root, including red and black maca. Red maca and black differ in their nutritional breakdown and in their phytochemical levels. For example, red maca has higher protein and potassium levels than black maca, but black maca is richer in iron and the B vitamin riboflavin. (16) Some types of maca may be more effective for improving certain aspects of health, like libido, but there’s currently not enough research to understand how different types of maca impact human health. (17)
How long does it take to see results from maca root pills?
Which form of maca root is best?
Some research suggests that gelatinized maca may be easier for the body to digest and may be less likely to cause side effects, such as bloating, stomach upset, and gas, than raw maca powders. (8) However, more research is needed to substantiate these claims.
Is maca root better than ashwagandha?
Ashwagandha has much more human research to back up its health benefits, so it may be a better choice than maca root. Ashwagandha may be a better choice than maca for those looking to reduce stress and anxiety, promote restful sleep, boost sexual desire, and improve athletic performance. (24, 25, 26, 27)
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any diseases.
Our experts
Christopher Mohr, Ph.D., RD
Dr. Chris Mohr is an internationally recognized subject matter expert and speaker and performance coach. Through his facilitation and online resources, he works closely with some of the largest corporations in the world including Deloitte, Delta Airlines, Johnson & Johnson and more to help busy executives all over the world, develop the energy to thrive personally and professionally.
Victoria Burgess, Ph.D., CSCS, CISSN
Victoria Burgess earned her Ph.D. in Health and Human Performance from Concordia University Chicago and holds her NSCA CSCS and Certified Sports Nutritionist (CISSN). She is an adjunct professor in the Human Performance and Nutrition department at Concordia University Chicago & Parker University, where she teaches undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral level courses.
Jessica Coulon
Jessica Coulon is a writer and editor who specializes in fitness, health, nutrition, and science content. Previously, she was an editor for Popular Mechanics and Bicycling, covering pro cycling news, writing how-to guides, and testing all the latest and greatest bike gear. She was also a regular shoe tester and contributor for Runner’s World. You can often find her skiing, riding her mountain bike, and racing with the F1RE female enduro team.
Joana Neziri, M.S., NASM CPT
Joana is a writer, editor, and content strategist focusing on nutrition, fitness, and all things health. After earning a master’s degree in business from the University of North Florida, she began a career in research and digital marketing.
Kelly Uhler
Kelly has a multifaceted background in elder care, health care, and copywriting. She has worked for organizations such as A Place For Mom and Homecare.com, which gave her the opportunity to work closely with families, providing reliable information to help them make informed decisions about their loved one’s health, safety, and quality of life.
Jillian Kubala, MS, RD
Fortune Recommends Writer