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An RCT of 57 men found that 1,500-3,000mg/day of maca root for 12 weeks significantly improved sexual desire scores compared to placebo (p < 0.01), without altering testosterone or estradiol levels.
| Study | Participants | Finding | Quality |
|---|---|---|---|
Effect of Lepidium meyenii (MACA) on sexual desire and its absent relationship with serum testosterone levels in adult healthy men Gonzales GF, Córdova A, Vega K, Chung A, Villena A, Góñez C, Castillo S — Andrologia (2002) | 57 | Maca 1,500-3,000mg/day increased sexual desire by 8 weeks without affecting serum testosterone or estradiol | High |
For men experiencing low sexual desire (not related to clinical hypogonadism), 1,500-3,000mg/day of gelatinized maca root powder for at least 8 weeks may improve libido through non-hormonal mechanisms. Maca does not raise testosterone — it appears to work through other pathways affecting desire.
A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial evaluating the effects of Lepidium meyenii (maca) root supplementation on sexual desire, hormonal profiles, and subjective well-being in healthy adult men.
No. Multiple RCTs have confirmed that maca does not raise serum testosterone or estradiol levels. Despite this, it consistently improves subjective sexual desire scores. The mechanism appears to involve neurotransmitter modulation rather than hormonal changes.
Clinical trials show significant improvements in sexual desire scores starting at 8 weeks, with continued benefits at 12 weeks. Some users report subjective changes sooner, but allow at least 6-8 weeks for a fair assessment.
Clinical trials used 1,500-3,000mg/day of maca root powder. Both doses were effective without a significant difference between them. Start at 1,500mg/day and increase to 3,000mg/day if needed. Gelatinized maca is easier to digest than raw.
Limited evidence suggests yes. A small RCT in postmenopausal women found maca reduced sexual dysfunction scores and anxiety/depression. However, the evidence base for women is much smaller than for men, and more research is needed.
Clinical trials primarily used yellow maca (the most common variety). Black and red maca have been studied in animal models with different effect profiles. For libido specifically, yellow or black maca at 1,500-3,000mg/day in gelatinized form is the best-studied option.