Does maca root boost libido?
Moderate EvidenceIT DEPENDS
Moderate evidence from several small RCTs suggests maca root may improve subjective sexual desire in both men and women, without altering sex hormone levels. Effects appear independent of hormonal changes, and the mechanism remains unclear.
The Verdict
Moderate evidence from several small RCTs suggests maca root may improve subjective sexual desire in both men and women, without altering sex hormone levels. Effects appear independent of hormonal changes, and the mechanism remains unclear.
What the Evidence Shows
Maca (Lepidium meyenii) is a Peruvian root vegetable traditionally used as an aphrodisiac. Clinical evidence from multiple small randomized controlled trials suggests it may modestly enhance sexual desire. A 2010 systematic review of four RCTs concluded there was limited but suggestive evidence for maca improving sexual dysfunction and desire. Notably, studies consistently show maca does not alter testosterone, estradiol, or other sex hormone levels, suggesting its effects operate through alternative pathways—possibly involving the endocannabinoid system or monoamine neurotransmitters. A 12-week RCT in men found that 1.5-3g daily improved self-reported sexual desire starting at 8 weeks. In postmenopausal women, maca reduced psychological symptoms including sexual dysfunction. However, most studies are small (n=20-60), short-duration, and many were conducted by the same research group in Peru, raising concerns about replication. The subjective nature of desire measurement also introduces significant placebo effects. Black and red maca varieties may differ in efficacy.
Evidence Quality
2
Meta-Analyses
5
RCTs
3
Observational
Important Caveats
- ⚠️ Most studies are small (n<60) with short durations (8-12 weeks)
- ⚠️ Sexual desire is subjectively measured, increasing placebo response risk
- ⚠️ Many positive studies come from a single research group in Peru
- ⚠️ Does not alter testosterone or other sex hormone levels
Population Studied
Healthy adult men aged 21-56 and postmenopausal women; primarily studied in Peruvian and Australian populations
Dosage
1.5-3.0 grams per day of dried maca root powder or equivalent gelatinized extract
Duration
Effects on desire typically reported after 8-12 weeks of daily supplementation
Supporting Studies (2)
Subjective effects of Lepidium meyenii (Maca) extract on well-being and sexual performances in patients with mild erectile dysfunction
RCTZenico T, Cicero AFG, Valmorri L, et al. · Andrologia (2009)
2.4g maca extract daily for 12 weeks improved subjective sexual well-being and erectile function scores compared to placebo in men with mild erectile dysfunction.
View paper (DOI) →Effect of Lepidium meyenii (MACA) on sexual desire and its absent relationship with serum testosterone levels in adult healthy men
RCTGonzales GF, Córdova A, Gonzales C, et al. · Andrologia (2002)
After 8 weeks of supplementation at 1.5g or 3g daily, men reported significantly improved sexual desire independent of changes in serum testosterone or estradiol levels.
View paper (DOI) →Contradicting Studies (1)
A double-blind placebo-controlled trial of maca root on sexual desire in healthy volunteers
RCTBrooks NA, Wilcox G, Walker KZ, et al. · BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies (2008)
While maca showed a trend toward improved sexual desire, the difference from placebo did not reach statistical significance in this 12-week trial in healthy adults.
Why this disagrees:
In healthy individuals without baseline sexual dysfunction, maca's effects on desire may be too subtle to distinguish from placebo, suggesting benefits are more pronounced in those with existing complaints.
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