Benefits of Maca Root Consumption for Men (2025 Update)

Maca root (Lepidium meyenii), also known as Peruvian ginseng, is a cruciferous vegetable native to the high Andes of South America. It has been used for centuries in traditional medicine for itsnutritional and medicinal properties, particularly as anenergizing and fertility-enhancing food. In recent years, maca has gained popularity as a natural supplement for men’s health. Studies suggest maca root can positively impactsexual function,hormonal balance,physical performance, andoverall vitality in men[1][2]. 

Sexual Health and Fertility

One of the most touted benefits of maca root for men is its potential to improve sexual health and fertility. Modern research lends support to maca’s ancient reputation as a natural aphrodisiac:

• Increased Libido: A systematic review of clinical studies found evidence that maca supplementation canincrease sexual desire in men after at least 6–12 weeks of use[3]. In healthy men, doses of 1.5–3 g of maca per day were associated with a statistically significant boost in libido compared to placebo[3]. In other words, maca may help rekindle a lagging sex drive, enhancing a man's desire and confidence in the bedroom.

• Enhanced Erectile Function: Preliminary clinical trials suggest maca may help men with mild erectile dysfunction. In one randomized, placebo-controlled study of men with mild ED, those who took maca extract reported improved sexual well-being and erectile function compared to the placebo group[4]. While these studies were small, the results indicate maca could support better performance and satisfaction during intimacy.

• Improved Sperm Quality: Maca has also been investigated for its effects on male fertility parameters. Research indicates that maca canimprove semen quality – including sperm count, motility (movement), and morphology (sperm shape) – especially in cases of reduced fertility[5][6]. For example, a controlled trial in 69 men with low sperm count or poor motility found that taking 2 g of maca daily for 12 weeks significantlyincreased sperm concentration (sperm count), though it did not significantly change sperm motility or semen volume[6]. A 2016 systematic review likewise concluded that there is“suggestive evidence for the effectiveness of maca in improving semen quality” in both fertile and infertile men[5]. Healthier sperm and higher counts can improve a couple’s chances of conception – great news for men looking to start or expand a family.

• Nutrient-Rich for Sexual Health: Part of maca’s benefit may come from its rich nutritional profile. Maca root is packed with essential vitamins and minerals[7] that support men’s reproductive health and overall wellness. For example, maca provides:

• Vitamin C – an antioxidant that boosts immune function and may increase energy levels, which can indirectly improve sexual stamina and performance.

• Potassium – an electrolyte vital for muscle function and healthy blood pressure regulation, both important factors in sexual health (for instance, proper muscle contraction and blood flow are key for normal erectile function).

• Calcium – a mineral best known for strengthening bones, but also important for nerve signaling and cardiovascular health. Strong bones and a healthy circulatory system contribute to an active, pain-free love life.

Together with other nutrients like iron, zinc, and B-vitamins, the nutritional components of maca help support the bodily functions – from hormone production to energy metabolism – that underlie a healthy sex drive.

Various studies have also observed benefits of maca for men with sexual dysfunction beyond just libido. In addition to the ED study mentioned above, other research in men on certain antidepressants found maca improved sexual function and satisfaction[8]. While more large-scale research is needed, theconsensus from current evidence is that maca root can be a valuable natural aid for men’s sexual health – promoting increased desire, better performance, and potentially improved fertilitywithout the side effects of pharmaceuticals. It’s no wonder maca is a key ingredient in ATHANASE®, our flagship men’s blend, formulated to help you“Make Your Ancestors Proud.” 😉

Testosterone and Hormonal Balance

Another area of interest is maca’s influence ontestosterone levels and hormonal balance in men. Healthy testosterone is crucial for male vitality – affecting everything from muscle mass and mood to libido. Unlike direct testosterone boosters, maca doesnot appear to directly spike serum testosterone in healthy men[9]. In fact, studies show thatmaca supplementation often has no significant effect on blood testosterone, LH, or other reproductive hormone levels in men[10]. This might sound like a drawback, but it actually highlights an important point: maca likely works throughbalancing and adaptogenic mechanisms rather than overriding your body’s hormone levels.

Maca is considered anadaptogen, meaning it helps the bodyadapt to stress and maintain homeostasis. One way maca may support healthy testosterone is by reducing excess cortisol (the stress hormone). High cortisol over time can suppress testosterone production; by keeping stress in check, maca indirectly creates a more favorable environment for your body’s own testosterone synthesis. In practical terms, men often report improvedenergy, mood, and sexual function with maca even if their total testosterone doesn’t change – suggesting maca makes your hormoneswork better for you.

Recent research is especially promising for men with age-related low testosterone symptoms (sometimes called “andropause”). A 2023 double-blind clinical trial investigated maca in men withlate-onset hypogonadism – i.e. men who have normal testosterone levels for their age but experience symptoms of low T (fatigue, low libido, etc.). The men took 3 g of gelatinized maca daily for 12 weeks. The results were impressive:maca significantly improved their scores on the Aging Males’ Symptoms (AMS) scale, a questionnaire that measures issues like low energy, mood changes, and sexual problems[11]. In the maca group, overall symptoms of androgen deficiency dropped (fewer men met the criteria for low T symptoms), and notablysexual function (IIEF scores) improved compared to placebo[11]. These men even saw an improvement in theirprostate health symptoms (more on that later)[11]. The study concluded that maca“may be considered an effective and safe treatment” for men with LOH symptoms[12].

In simpler terms, maca helped these menfeel and perform like they had higher testosterone, despite beingeugonadal (normal hormone levels). This aligns with other observations that maca can exertandrogenic effects at the tissue level without altering serum testosterone[9]. By possibly binding to androgen receptors or enhancing the effects of the testosterone you already have, maca can boost your male vitality in a more natural, balanced way.

Thebottom line: If you’re looking to support healthy testosterone function and hormonal balance, maca root is apromising natural ally. It’s not a synthetic hormone or a steroid; rather, it works with your body to optimize your own hormones. Our Salients superfood blendATHANASE® includes maca precisely for this reason – to help men maintain peak masculine hormone health and“conquer” their day with sustained vigor.

Energy and Athletic Performance

Men who use maca often report feeling a noticeable increase inenergy, stamina, and endurance. This is not just anecdotal – scientific studies confirm that maca can enhance exercise performance and reduce fatigue:

• Higher Energy Levels: In a placebo-controlled study of 175 people, taking 3 g of red or black maca daily for 12 weeks led to significant improvements inenergy and vitality scores compared to placebo[13]. Participants supplementing with maca felt more energetic and less tired in daily life. Importantly, this boost didn’t come with the jitters or crashes associated with caffeine or other stimulants – maca’s energy lift is steady and natural. It’s no surprise Andean warriors allegedly ate maca before long journeys or battles!

• Endurance and Stamina: Maca appears to particularly benefit aerobic endurance. In one trial, trained male cyclists who took maca root extract for only 14 days saw improvement in their 40 km cycling time-trial performance[14]. Just two weeks of maca supplementation allowed these athletes to bike faster, indicating reduced fatigue and better endurance. Another recent study in 2023 on 44 male elite athletes found that taking 5 g ofblack maca extract per day (split into two doses) for 8 weeks improved theiraerobic metabolism and performance markers compared to baseline[15]. This suggests maca can help you train harder and go further, whether in the gym, on the field, or in any physical endeavor.

• Strength and Recovery: While more research is needed, there are indications that maca might aid muscle recovery and growth. Traditional use and animal studies hint that maca’s nutrient-dense profile (rich in protein and amino acids) could support muscle maintenance. Some athletes take maca as a post-workout supplement for its potential to reduce exercise-induced oxidative stress and inflammation, thereby speeding recovery. One animal study noted maca improved exercise tolerance and reduced fatigue in mice, which could translate into betterworkout endurance and less post-exercise soreness[16].

By acting as a naturalergogenic aid, maca can be a boon for active men. Whether you are a competitive athlete or just hitting the gym to stay fit, maca may give you anedge in stamina and performance – legally and safely. It’s a key reason why ourATHANASE®formula includes maca alongside other performance herbs. We want every SALIENT® to train harder, recover faster, and unleash their inner athlete – and maca root helps make that possible.

Mood, Cognition, and Mental Well-Being

Maintaining a positive mood and sharp mind is another pillar of men’s health that maca root may support. Life’s stresses – from hectic workdays to intensive training – can take a toll on mental health. Interestingly, maca has traditionally been used as amood enhancer, and emerging research suggests it can indeed benefit mental well-being:

• Improved Mood: A clinical study involving adults living at high altitude found that taking 3 g of maca daily for 12 weeks significantlyimproved mood scores compared to placebo[17]. Participants reported feeling more upbeat and less anxious or blue when using maca. This antidepressant-like effect of maca is backed by animal studies as well – for example, rodents given maca show reduced markers of depression and anxiety, an effect researchers link to maca’s impact on neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin[18][19].

• Reduced Stress and Anxiety: Maca’s adaptogenic properties help modulate the body’s stress response. By buffering the effects of stress hormones, maca may helpreduce anxiety and tension. In one study of postmenopausal women, 3.3 g of maca per day over 12 weeks led to a significant reduction inpsychological symptoms including anxiety and depression, as well as a drop in blood pressure[20]. Men can likely reap similar benefits; many users of maca report a greater sense of calm and focus in their daily lives. Instead of the “wired” feeling from caffeine, maca offers a state ofcalm energy – you feel fueled and alert, but not on edge.

• Cognitive Support: Early research hints that maca could even support brain health and cognitive function. Maca is rich in antioxidants and plant compounds that protect neurons from oxidative damage. In mouse studies, maca has demonstratedneuroprotective effects, improving memory and learning in models of cognitive decline[21][22]. While human data is still limited, there’s anecdotal evidence of maca aiding mental clarity and focus. Many men find that adding maca to their routine helps banish brain fog and sustain concentration throughout the day.Mental stamina is just as important as physical stamina, and maca may bolster both.

• Overall Well-Being: Perhaps one of the most telling signs of maca’s mental benefits is how users describe their experience –enhanced overall well-being. In clinical observations, men taking maca reported bettermood, drive, and sense of wellbeing relative to placebo[2]. This holistic uplift can translate to more motivation, confidence, and a positive outlook. When you feel good mentally, it reflects in all areas of life – work performance, relationships, and yes, even your gym sessions.

In summary, maca root isn’t just for the body; it nourishes themind and mood as well. By incorporating maca, you may find yourself with a spring in your step and stress rolling off your shoulders more easily. We formulated our product forMood & Cognition support with maca and other nootropic herbs to help our fellowSalients stay mentally resilient and sharp on the journey to reaching their full potential.

Bone Density and Joint Health

A lesser-known benefit of maca (but an important one) is its potential to supportbone health. As men age, maintaining strong bones and preventing osteoporosis becomes crucial (yes, osteoporosis can affect men too!). Maca root appears to have a positive influence on bone density:

• Stronger, Denser Bones: Scientific studies (primarily in animal models) have shown that maca can improve bone mass and strength. In an OEstrogen-deficient rat model (mimicking post-menopausal bone loss),red maca supplementation dose-dependently prevented bone density loss[23]. The rats given maca had stronger bones than those without, suggesting maca’s compounds can stimulate bone formation or slow bone breakdown. Similarly, trials in cell cultures have identified specific maca constituents (like N-benzyl-palmitamide) that promote osteoblast activity – the cells responsible for building bone[24][25].

• Joint and Connective Tissue Benefits: While not studied as extensively, maca’s anti-inflammatory effects could benefit joint health. Traditional Peruvian use of maca includes treating rheumatic conditions[26][27]. Maca’s antioxidants and nutrients may help reduce inflammation in joints and support collagen formation, potentially easing stiffness or pain. Some athletes use maca to help withjoint recovery due to the physical stresses of training.

Though human clinical research on maca for bone health is limited, the early evidence is promising. Ensuring adequate bone density is part of overall“male longevity”, keeping you active and structurally sound well into older age. Maca’s mineral content (notably calcium and phosphorus) combined with its phytonutrients make it a great natural addition to a bone-healthy lifestyle. Think of maca asfertilizer for your skeletal system – helping your bones stay unbreakable as yougrind to build your legacy.

Immune Function and Antioxidant Defense

Staying healthy and illness-free is paramount for the modern man constantly on the grind in a system actively pushing us back. Maca root can bolster your immune system and protect your cells through its rich antioxidant profile:

• Rich in Antioxidants: Maca is packed with powerful antioxidants, includingglutathione and superoxide dismutase (SOD)[28]. These molecules are your body’s front-line defense againstfree radicals – unstable molecules that cause cellular damage, contribute to aging, and increase disease risk. Research confirms maca’s high antioxidant activity: one analysis noted maca significantly raises glutathione levels, which helps scavenge free radicals in the blood[28]. By neutralizing free radicals, macareduces oxidative stress on the body’s cells.

• Enhanced Immune Protection: Thanks to its antioxidants and nutrients, maca may strengthen immune responses. Vitamin C in maca supports white blood cell function, and zinc (also present in maca) is crucial for immune cell development. Although direct clinical studies on maca and immunity are scarce, having a robust antioxidant status generally correlates with better immunity. In fact, a study in middle-aged adults found those taking maca had lower levels of inflammatory cytokines (like IL-6) and reported higher overall health status[2]. This hints that maca can create an internal environment less prone to chronic inflammation and illness.

• Cancer Prevention Potential: By combating oxidative stress, maca’s antioxidants could help reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as cancer. Free radical damage is known to play a role in cancer initiation, and diets high in antioxidants are linked to lower cancer risk. Maca’s glucosinolates (the same type of compounds found in broccoli and kale) may haveanti-cancer properties, especially regarding hormone-related cancers. Preliminary research has shownantitumor effects of maca extracts in laboratory settings[1]. Additionally, maca’s observed benefits for prostate health (discussed below) suggest it might helpprotect the prostate, potentially lowering chances of prostate cancer in the long run. While we can’t claim maca is a cure or preventive for cancer, it certainly contributes to apro-cancer-prevention diet and lifestyle.

• Overall Vitality: Users often report that with regular maca use, they experience fewer colds and faster recovery when they do get sick. This could be due to maca’s immune-boosting vitamins (like C, E, and B6) and its role in reducing stress (high stress can weaken immunity). Keeping your immune system in fighting shape means you stay on track with your goals – fewer sick days, moreproductive grind days.

In summary, maca root arms your body with afortified defense system. It’s like adding armour to your body’s cells, helping fend off environmental stressors, pathogens, and the wear-and-tear of aging. In our ATHANASE® blend, maca works synergistically with other superfoods to keep your immune system and antioxidant network performing at their peak – so you can keep performing atyour peak.

Prostate Health

As men age, prostate health becomes a significant concern – issues like benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH, an enlarged prostate) can affect urinary function and quality of life (not to mention one’s romantic life). Excitingly, maca root shows promise in supporting a healthy prostate:

• Reduced Prostate Enlargement: Research indicates that maca can reduce prostate gland size in models of prostate enlargement. In a notable animal study, only red maca (and not yellow or black maca) significantlyshrunk the prostate in male rats with testosterone-induced BPH[29]. The reduction was dose-dependent and occurred without altering the rats’ testosterone or estrogen levels[29]. This suggests an inherent property of red maca that combats prostate growth – possibly through its unique glucosinolates or other phytochemicals that target prostate tissue.

• Improved Urinary Symptoms: Human evidence, though limited, aligns with maca’s prostate benefits. Remember the 12-week trial in men with late-onset hypogonadism? In addition to boosting sexual function and overall vitality, the men taking 3 g/day of maca experienced asignificant improvement in their International Prostate Symptom Scores (IPSS)[11]. IPSS is a questionnaire that assesses urinary symptoms like frequency, urgency, and flow (common issues when the prostate is enlarged). The maca group’s better scores indicatefewer urinary difficulties, implying that maca may have reduced prostate inflammation or size enough to relieve BPH symptoms[11].

• Anti-Inflammatory & Antioxidant: Maca’s ability to help the prostate may stem from its anti-inflammatory action. An enlarged prostate often involves inflammation; maca’s antioxidants and nutrients could help calm this. Moreover, certain compounds in maca might inhibit enzymes or growth factors that cause prostate tissue proliferation. Interestingly, the glucosinolates in maca break down into biologically active molecules (like benzyl isothiocyanate) that have been studied for anti-cancer and anti-BPH effects in cruciferous veggies. Maca essentially brings thoseprostate-protective plant chemicals to the table.

For men, taking maca could be a proactive way tosupport prostate health naturally – potentially keeping issues like frequent nighttime bathroom trips at bay. It’s worth noting thatprevention is key: incorporating maca early on (well before advanced age) might yield the best results in maintaining a healthy prostate.

A Safe and Powerful Herb for Men

With all these benefits, one might wonder: is maca root safe to take daily? The answer from research and history isyes – maca isvery safe and well-tolerated for most people. This root has been a dietary staple in parts of the Andes for millennia, and it’s classified as a food rather than a drug. Modern studies confirm maca’s safety profile: even at relatively high doses (3 g per day or more), maca has shownno significant adverse effects in humans[30]. For instance, a 3-month study of 175 people taking 3 g of maca daily reported no serious side effects or abnormalities in blood tests[30]. Many participants in such trials are often sad to see the study end – they feel so good on maca!

That said, as with any supplement, individual responses can vary. A small fraction of users have reported mild symptoms like stomach discomfort or headache, but these are rare and often resolved by adjusting the dosage or taking maca with food[31]. Maca iscaffeine-free, gluten-free, and plant-based, with no known toxicity. It doesnot disrupt hormone levels in a dangerous way (remember, it balances rather than spikes hormones). In fact, maca is so safe it’s been given to both men and women in studies addressing sexual dysfunction, with positive outcomes and no hormonal harm[9][8].

From our company perspective, we chose maca as the foundational ingredient inATHANASE®because it delivers tangible resultssafely. Our company tagline is“Make Your Ancestors Proud” – and part of that is treating your body with natural, nutrient-dense foods that enhance your strength and longevity. Maca root checks all those boxes: it’s a natural foodherb (not a synthetic powder), it’s backed by bothtradition and science, and it addresses multiple facets of men’s health (sexual function, energy, mood, immunity, etc.) in one fell swoop.

Make Maca and ATHANASE Part of Your Routine

In conclusion,maca root is a fantastic supplement for men to consider in their daily regimen. The research – both old and new – paints a promising picture of this humble root vegetable as amale wellness multi-tasker. To recap its evidence-based benefits for men:

• Boosts libido and sexual performance (while improving sperm quality for fertility)[3][6]
• Supports healthy testosterone function and combats symptoms of low T (without interfering with hormones)[11][9]
• Enhances energy, endurance, and athletic performance, helping you train harder and recover faster[13][15]
• Improves mood and cognitive well-being, reducing stress and potentially sharpening mental focus[17][2]
• Strengthens bone density and may protect against osteoporosis (important for long-term health)[23]
• Bolsters immunity and antioxidant defenses, guarding your body against illness and cellular aging[28][32]
• Promotes prostate health, potentially preventing or easing issues like BPH as you age[29][11]

All these perks comewithout a prescription and with minimal risk, since maca is a natural superfood, not a drug. It’s this unique combination ofwide-ranging benefits + safety that has earned maca root its position as the dominant ingredient in ATHANASE.

If you’re ready tobecome a SALIENT – an uncommon man striving to reach his full potential – consider harnessing the power of maca. You can take maca powder on its own, but for maximum convenience and synergistic effect, try it as part ofATHANASE®, our acclaimed all-in-one herbal blend for men (as seen inMen’s Health magazine and certified by Informed Sport). Each serving packs an optimized dose of maca root(1,750 mg of Lepidium meyenii) alongside other performance herbs, so you canconquer all 7 areas of male health: sexual vitality, athleticism, mood & cognition, recovery & sleep, gut health, immunity, and aesthetics.

Make your ancestors proud! by fueling your body with time-tested herbs like maca. The benefits are real, the science is growing, and your body will thank you – from the gym, to the boardroom, to the bedroom. Embrace the wisdom of the Andes and join the brotherhood of men who never give up on accomplishing their goals. With maca in your arsenal (and in your morning shake), you’ll be one step closer to becoming theuncommon man who stands out from the crowd – a trueSALIENT in the making.

References:

[1][26][27][34]  Exploring the chemical and pharmacological variability of Lepidium meyenii: a comprehensive review of the effects of maca 

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10910417/

[2][8][9][10][18][19][21][22][33] Maca | Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center

https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/integrative-medicine/herbs/maca

[3][4][6][13][15][30][31][36][37] Maca Root for Men: Sexual Benefits Explained

https://www.hims.com/blog/maca-root-men

[5] The use of maca (Lepidium meyenii) to improve semen quality: A systematic review 

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27621241/

[7] Aerial parts of maca (Lepidium meyenii Walp.)

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29878016/

[11][12] Efficacy and Safety of Maca (Lepidium meyenii) in Patients with Symptoms of Late-Onset Hypogonadism

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36593713/

[14][20][28][32][38] 5 Reasons That Make Maca A Superfood | by GRIT Superfoods | In Fitness And In Health | Medium

https://medium.com/in-fitness-and-in-health/5-reasons-that-make-maca-a-superfood-f6f84b2dea2a

[16][17][35] 4 Benefits of Maca Root (and Potential Side Effects)

https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/benefits-of-maca-root

[23] Maca Inhibits Osteoporosis 

https://www.supplysidesj.com/healthy-living/maca-inhibits-osteoporosis

[24] Discovering anti-osteoporosis constituents of maca 

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0963996915300739

[25] (III) Clinical responses of early-postmenopausal women to Maca in 

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3614644/

[29] Red maca (Lepidium meyenii) reduced prostate size in rats 

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15661081/