7 Amazing Maca Benefits for Men’s Health, Hormones, & More

Published on November 08, 2022


By Kristen Boye BS, Natural Health

Kristen Boye

Kristen Boye is a natural health expert, writer, copywriter, and editor. Kristen was raised on an organic farm in British Columbia which inspired her life’s work. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Natural Health, is a Certified Natural Foods Chef, co-owner of a medicinal herb farm, and is a natural foods and children’s health advocate. Kristen lives with her husband and two children on their medicinal herb farm in Western North Carolina.

https://www.holisticwritingconcepts.com

If you’re a health-conscious man, you likely put your best efforts into improving your energy, performance, and overall well-being.

This means that Maca root’s benefits for men, including enhancing stamina, sex drive, and workouts, could help you continue to optimize your well-being.*

However, with so many “miracle male health enhancers'' out there, how do you know if Maca is legit?

The best way to uncover the safety and efficacy of any herbal product is to learn about its history and traditional uses and follow the research.

From there, you can decide if it’s a good fit for you and your health goals.

This article explains the top seven science-backed benefits of Maca Root or Maca Powder for men and how to find the best source.

What is Maca Root? 

Also known as Peruvian ginseng, Maca Root, Lepidium meyenii, is native to the Peruvian mountains, where it has been cultivated and used as food, currency, and medicine for approximately 2,000 years.REF#11

In fact, the ancient Incans once considered it more precious than gold and reserved its use for royalty.

Maca belongs to the cruciferous family of vegetables (which also includes produce like broccoli, cauliflower, and radishes). It is rich in life-giving nutrients, including essential fatty acids, fiber, amino acids, iron, calcium, and vitamin C. 

Maca is an adaptogen, which means it helps your body adapt and better respond to stress.**

It’s been traditionally used to support fertility and respiratory health, enhance energy and stamina, as an aphrodisiac, for rheumatism, and for anemia.*

Due to its reported effects on enhancing fertility, energy, and sexual virility, demand for Maca Root has skyrocketed in the last decade.

This has led researchers to start examining the efficacy and mechanisms behind this ancient root’s modern and traditional uses.

maca benefits for men

#1. Maca Supports Male Fertility*

It is estimated between 1 in 6 and 1 in 8 couples struggle with fertility issues.REF#12

The male partner is either the sole cause or a contributing cause of infertility in approximately 40% of couples, per the American Society for Reproductive Medicine.REF#13

Fertility support is one of Maca’s claims to fame. But does it really work?

There is evidence Maca can support aspects of male fertility via its effects on sperm count, quality, and motility (the ability of sperm to swim).*

Studies suggest Maca’s plant-based chemicals, known as polysaccharides, support healthy sperm counts by enhancing antioxidant levels.* Antioxidants offer sperm protection from the effects of free radical damage.REF#14

There is also evidence Maca affects sperm quality by supporting normal levels of luteinizing hormone (LH).*REF#15 In men, LH stimulates the testes to make testosterone, which is essential to sperm production.REF#16

Insofar as sperm motility is concerned, Maca has shown potential benefits to humans and animals.REF#17 REF#18 Although the exact mechanism behind its action remains unclear.

#2: Maca Helps the Body Adapt to Stress*

Stress is an inevitable part of life. However, it can quickly wear us down if we don’t learn to manage it effectively.

It’s times like these when adaptogenic herbs, like Maca, American ginseng, and ashwagandha, can make all the difference. 

Here’s a brief synopsis of how adaptogens work:

  • Adaptogens are a class of plants that help the body better adapt to various stressors to maintain equilibrium.
  • Research shows they work by supporting the adrenals to enhance stamina and resilience during physical, mental, or emotional stress.REF#19
  • This action is one reason Maca was prized in indigenous cultures. Its adaptogenic properties helped people adapt to the harsher climate and altitudes of the Andes mountains.

Adaptogens have been traditionally used in many systems of healing, including traditional Chinese medicine (medicinal mushrooms and eleuthero), Ayurveda (Tulsi), Native American medicine (American ginseng), Russian medicine (Rhodiola rosea), and others.

#3: Maca Can Boost Libido In Men*

Maca has had a long-standing reputation as an aphrodisiac, but how it affects men’s sexual health is still unclear.

Here’s what we do know:

  • A 12-week double-blind placebo-controlled, randomized, parallel trial published in the First International Journal of Andrology’s Andrologia found that Maca enhanced sexual desire in men after eight weeks of use. One would think this would be related to a positive impact on testosterone. However, the researchers stated there was no change in testosterone or oestradiol. The mechanism of action remains unclear.REF#20
  • Additional research from the journal BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies found that Maca supported sexual desire in men and menopausal women, but how it works is, once again, unclear.REF#21

Researchers and experts hypothesize it could be due to Maca’s adaptogenic properties, which support adrenal health, thereby benefiting hormonal levels, mood, stress levels, and more.* 

Its supportive effects on luteinizing hormone (discussed in point #1), which is involved in libido, could also explain its action.*REF#22

Bottom line: aca can support a healthy sex drive in men, but there here is no official consensus on how it works.*

#4: Maca May Enhance Energy and Stamina*

Having enough energy to maintain peak performance throughout their day is a top priority for a majority of men.

This is one reason Maca Powder has become a popular addition to coffee, energy drinks and pre- and post-workout smoothies. 

Its adaptogenic, nutritional, and phyto-chemical properties make it effective at helping maintain daily energy and stamina.*

According to herbal traditions, the Andean people used Maca extensively for these purposes—both in everyday life and in preparing for battle. 

The Spanish conquistadors were also said to have used high doses of Maca to prepare themselves for war.

In addition to its adaptogenic qualities, research shows Maca can boost exercise performance by supporting mitochondria function (mitochondria are the energy-producing powerhouses of our cells), and its antioxidants protect against the oxidative damage that can occur during intense exercise.REF#23

It’s also been shown effective in supporting physical endurance and speed in male athletes.*REF#24

Finally, the nutrients in Maca, such as carbohydrates, protein, fiber, iron, essential amino acids, and vitamin C, can help support sustained energy.*

#5: Maca May Support Prostate Health*

Few young men pay much attention to the health of their prostates.

However, did you know the prostate is essential to sperm production, urinary health, hormone conversion, development of secondary sex characteristics (such as facial hair), and overall sexual and reproductive health?

Therefore, it’s wise for men of all ages to support their prostate health.

According to animal studies published in Reproductive Biology and Endocrinology and Andrologia, the phytochemicals in red Maca, such as alkaloids, steroids, tannins, saponins, antioxidants, and cardiotonic glycosides, have been shown effective at supporting normal prostate sizeREF#25 and zinc levels.REF#26 These are important to prostate health.

#6: Maca’s Nutrients Support Hormonal Balance In Men*

Now that we understand Maca’s benefits for male fertility and libido, let’s answer the next big question: does Maca affect testosterone?

In the previous section on how Maca benefits male libido, we mentioned a study that found it supported male sex drive without altering serum testosterone levels.REF#27

However, there is also evidence Maca supports the production of an enzyme related to androgen production, which could help increase androstenedione—a testosterone precursor—resulting in increased testosterone production.REF#28

So, does Maca support general hormonal balance in men? Per the studies previously cited, it can benefit men’s hormonal balance.*

Does Maca affect testosterone? More research is needed for a definitive answer.

#7: Maca Supports Focus and Brain Health*

Being at the top of your game requires a sharp mind and the ability to focus. High-performers turn to brain-supportive herbs, like Maca, for this reason.*

Per research published in the peer-reviewed Toxicology Mechanisms and Methods, the polysaccharides in Maca (long-chain carbohydrates that boost the body’s antioxidant levels) protect the brain by enhancing antioxidant levels, thereby reducing oxidative damage.REF#29

Maca is also rich in nutrients that support brain health and development, including:*:

  • Iron
  • Iodine
  • Essential fatty acids
  • Amino acids

Add to this Maca’s adaptogenic properties, which help buffer the brain-draining effects of stress, and you’ve got yourself a promising cognitive supportive ally.*

Start Reaping the Benefits of Maca Today

If you’re interested in trying out Maca for male fertility, libido, energy, and more, it's important to choose a high-quality product.*

Unfortunately, the demand for Maca has led to mass growing operations that involve pesticides, herbicides, and non-native cultivation.

Experts believe these forced growing practices can negatively affect Maca’s phytochemical composition, which degrades its quality, safety, and potency.

The good news is you can still find authentic, Peruvian-grown organic Maca products. Here’s how:

  • Look for organic Maca that’s third-party certified, such as USDA Organic Certification.
  • Look for pure Maca or Maca herbal blends that aren’t cut with fillers.
  • Check the labels to ensure it’s grown in its native climate. You want “Peruvian Maca” vs. Maca grown in China or India, for example.

Gaia Herbs offers several high-quality Maca products for men that meet these quality standards, such as Male Libido, Maca Root, Maca Powder, and Everyday Adaptogen.

We also recommend experimenting with Maca in the kitchen. Its sweet and nutty flavor complements hot drinks, oatmeal, energy balls, and more while adding a powerful nutritional boost.

Check out our recipes for Raspberry Triple Chocolate Protein Shake and Maca Matcha Latte With Maca Powder.

Like most herbs and natural products, Maca’s benefits may not be immediate. However, with consistent use, you too can experience Maca's energizing benefits for men’s health.*

REFERENCES:

  • 1. Natália da Silva Leitão Peres 1, Letícia Cabrera Parra Bortoluzzi, Leila Larisa Medeiros Marques, Maysa Formigoni, Renata Hernandez Barros Fuchs, Adriana Aparecida Droval, Flávia Aparecida Reitz Cardoso, "Medicinal effects of Peruvian maca (Lepidium meyenii): a review", Food Funct. 2020 Jan 29;11(1):83-92. doi: 10.1039/c9fo02732g.. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31951246/
  • 2. Office of Communications, "How common is infertility?", Home- Health- A to Z List- Infertility and Fertility- About- How common is infertility?. https://www.nichd.nih.gov/health/topics/infertility/conditioninfo/common#f1
  • 3. ASRM, American Society for Reproductive Medicine., "In approximately 40 percent of infertile couples, the male partner is either the sole cause or a contributing cause of infertility", Home Infographic Gallery. https://www.reproductivefacts.org/resources/infographic-gallery/images/in-approximately-40-percent-of-infertile-couples-the-male-partner-is-either-the-sole-cause-or-a-contributing-cause-of-infertility/
  • 4. G F Gonzales 1, A Cordova, C Gonzales, A Chung, K Vega, A Villena, "Lepidium meyenii (Maca) improved semen parameters in adult men", Asian J Androl. 2001 Dec;3(4):301-3.. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11753476/
  • 5. José Manuel Lozano Sánchez', Zoraida Axtle Serranol*, Julio Avilés Durán, Héctor Salvador Godoy Morales, Paola Berenice Merchand Álvarez, Ricardo Mera Mejía? Luis Felipe Montaño Estrada and Erika Patricia Rendón Huerta, "Peruvian Maca and Possible Impact on Fertility", DOI:10.15406/jnhfe.2017.06.00217. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/317569911_Peruvian_Maca_and_Possible_Impact_on_Fertility
  • 6. Daniel Nedresky; Gurdeep Singh., "Physiology, Luteinizing Hormone", Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2022 Jan-.. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK539692/
  • 7. G F Gonzales 1, A Cordova, C Gonzales, A Chung, K Vega, A Villena, "Lepidium meyenii (Maca) improved semen parameters in adult men", Asian J Androl. 2001 Dec;3(4):301-3.. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11753476/
  • 8. G F Gonzales, M Gasco, A Córdova, A Chung, J Rubio and L Villegas, "Effect of Lepidium meyenii (Maca) on spermatogenesis in male rats acutely exposed to high altitude (4340 m)", Instituto de Investigaciones de la Altura, and Departamento de Ciencias Biolo´gicas y Fisiolo´gicas Facultad de Ciencas y Filosofı´a, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, PO Box 1843, Lima, Peru (Requests for offprints should be addressed to G F Gonzales, Instituto de Investigaciones de la Altura, Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, PO Box 1843, Lima, Peru; Email: iiad@upch.edu.pe). http://eplant.njau.edu.cn/maca/publication/Effect%20of%20Lepidium%20meyenii%20(Maca)%20on%20spermatogenesis%20in%20male%20rats%20acutely%20exposed%20to%20high%20altitude%20(4340%20m).pdf
  • 9. A López-Fando, M P Gómez-Serranillos, I Iglesias, O Lock, U P Upamayta, M E Carretero, "Lepidium peruvianum chacon restores homeostasis impaired by restraint stress", Phytother Res . 2004 Jun;18(6):471-4. doi: 10.1002/ptr.1455.. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15287072/
  • 10. G. F. Gonzales,A. Córdova,K. Vega,A. Chung,A. Villena,C. Góñez,S. Castillo, "Effect of Lepidium meyenii (MACA) on sexual desire and its absent relationship with serum testosterone levels in adult healthy men", Journal of Andrology. https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1046/j.1439-0272.2002.00519.x
  • 11. Byung-Cheul Shin, Myeong Soo Lee, Eun Jin Yang, Hyun-Suk Lim, Edzard Ernst, "Maca (L. meyenii) for improving sexual function: a systematic review", BMC Complement Altern Med . 2010 Aug 6;10:44. doi: 10.1186/1472-6882-10-44.. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20691074/
  • 12. José Manuel Lozano Sánchez, Zoraida Axtle, Julio Aviles, Héctor Salvador Godoy Morales, Paola Berenice Merchand Álvarez, Ricardo Mera Mejía, Luis Felipe Montaño Estrada, Erika Patricia Rendón Huerta, "Peruvian Maca and Possible Impact on Fertility", Journal of Nutritional Health & Food Engineering. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/317569911_Peruvian_Maca_and_Possible_Impact_on_Fertility
  • 13. Hongkang Zhu, Wenqian Xu, Ning Wang, Wenhao Jiang, Yuliang Cheng, Yahui Guo, Weirong Yao, Bin Hu, Peng Du and He Qian, "Anti-fatigue effect of Lepidium meyenii Walp. (Maca) on preventing mitochondria-mediated muscle damage and oxidative stress in vivo and vitro†", Journal of Food & Function. https://pubs.rsc.org/en/content/articlelanding/2021/fo/d1fo00383f/unauth
  • 14. Mark Stone, Alvin Ibarra, Marc Roller, Andrea Zangara, Emma Stevenson, "A pilot investigation into the effect of maca supplementation on physical activity and sexual desire in sportsmen", J Ethnopharmacol . 2009 Dec 10;126(3):574-6. doi: 10.1016/j.jep.2009.09.012. Epub 2009 Sep 23.. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19781622/
  • 15. Gustavo F Gonzales, Sara Miranda, Jessica Nieto, Gilma Fernández, Sandra Yucra, Julio Rubio, Pedro Yi & Manuel Gasco, "Red maca (Lepidium meyenii) reduced prostate size in rats", Reprod Biol Endocrinol 3, 5 (2005). https://doi.org/10.1186/1477-7827-3-5. https://rbej.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/1477-7827-3-5
  • 16. C Gonzales, J Leiva-Revilla, J Rubio, M Gasco, G F Gonzales, "Effect of red maca (Lepidium meyenii) on prostate zinc levels in rats with testosterone-induced prostatic hyperplasia", Andrologia . 2012 May;44 Suppl 1:362-9. doi: 10.1111/j.1439-0272.2011.01190.x. Epub 2011 Jul 18.. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/21762188/
  • 17. G. F. Gonzales,A. Córdova,K. Vega,A. Chung,A. Villena,C. Góñez,S. Castillo, "Effect of Lepidium meyenii (MACA) on sexual desire and its absent relationship with serum testosterone levels in adult healthy men", Journal of Andrology. https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1046/j.1439-0272.2002.00519.x
  • 18. Y Ohta, N Kawate, T Inaba, H Morii, K Takahashi, H Tamada, "Feeding hydroalcoholic extract powder of Lepidium meyenii (maca) enhances testicular gene expression of 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase in rats", Andrologia . 2017 Dec;49(10). doi: 10.1111/and.12792. Epub 2017 Mar 6.. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28261840/
  • 19. Ángel Rodríguez-Huamán, Sandra Casimiro-Gonzales, Jorge Antonio Chávez-Pérez, Carla Gonzales-Arimborgo, Richard Cisneros-Fernández, Luis Ángel Aguilar-Mendoza, Gustavo F Gonzales, "Antioxidant and neuroprotector effect of Lepidium meyenii (maca) methanol leaf extract against 6-hydroxy dopamine (6-OHDA)-induced toxicity in PC12 cells", Toxicol Mech Methods . 2017 May;27(4):279-285. doi: 10.1080/15376516.2016.1275908. Epub 2017 Jan 8.. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28007001/