It can also be taken to enhance energy. [3] X Research source Sego, S. (2010). Alternative meds update. Maca root. Clinical Advisor, 13(8), 58-60

Look for organic maca root from Peru, as this is the species that has been studied the most.

Maca may interact with sildenafil and other drugs used to treat erectile dysfunction. Make sure to check with your doctor before using maca if you are taking a prescription drug for erectile dysfunction. Rare allergic reactions have been reported, but those are minimal and non-lethal. [4] X Research source Sego, S. (2010). Alternative meds update. Maca root. Clinical Advisor, 13(8), 58-60. Since maca root regulates hormones, it is not recommended that you take them if you are pregnant or nursing. Even though maca is very safe, it is always recommended that you talk to your physician to be certain that maca can benefit you.

Maca is a member of the cruciferous vegetable family, which is the family that broccoli, cauliflower, and Brussel sprouts belong to. It is effective in reducing the effects of an enlarged prostate, which may also benefit sexual function and activity. [7] X Research source Gonzales, G. F. , Miranda, S. , Nieto, J. , Fernandez, G. , Yucra, S. , Rubio, J. , Yi, P. , and Gasco, M. Red maca (Lepidium meyenii) reduced prostate size in rats. Reprod. Biol Endocrinol 1-20-2005;3(1):5 Animal studies have indicated that maca can also improve sexual performance and frequency of erections, though human clinical studies are not available. [8] X Research source Cicero, A. F. , Piacente, S. , Plaza, A. , Sala, E. , Arletti, R. , and Pizza, C. Hexanic Maca extract improves rat sexual performance more effectively than methanolic and chloroformic Maca extracts. Andrologia 2002;34(3):177-179. [9] X Research source Cicero, A. F. , Bandieri, E. , and Arletti, R. Lepidium meyenii Walp. improves sexual behaviour in male rats independently from its action on spontaneous locomotor activity. J Ethnopharmacol. 2001;75(2-3):225-229.

Maca has been studied in animals with regards to increasing fertility. The results of these studies indicate that maca can increase both male sperm count and female litter size in animals, providing evidence that maca may be useful in increasing fertility in humans. [10] X Research source Chung, F. , Rubio, J. , Gonzales, C. , Gasco, M. , and Gonzales, G. F. Dose-response effects of Lepidium meyenii (Maca) aqueous extract on testicular function and weight of different organs in adult rats. J Ethnopharmacol. 4-8-2005;98(1-2):143-147. [11] X Research source Ruiz-Luna, A. C. , Salazar, S. , Aspajo, N. J. , Rubio, J. , Gasco, M. , and Gonzales, G. F. Lepidium meyenii (Maca) increases litter size in normal adult female mice. Reprod. Biol Endocrinol 5-3-2005;3(1):16 It also increased both testosterone and estrogen, the male and female hormones, levels in animal studies. [12] X Research source Oshima, M. , Gu, Y. , and Tsukada, S. Effects of Lepidium meyenii Walp and Jatropha macrantha on blood levels of estradiol-17 beta, progesterone, testosterone and the rate of embryo implantation in mice. J Vet. Med Sci 2003;65(10):1145-1146 Maca may be used to increase libido in post-menopausal women. Most studies have been relatively short term, and results may be seen within 6-8 weeks. [13] X Research source Brooks NA, Wilcox G, Walker KZ, et al. Beneficial effects of Lepidium meyenii (Maca) on psychological symptoms and measures of sexual dysfunction in postmenopausal women are not related to estrogen or androgen content. Menopause. 2008;15:1157-1162.

Longer term safety studies are not available, but historically, the vegetable itself has been safely consumed on a long-term basis. This means that you can likely take it longer with minimal to no side effects. [14] X Research source Valerio, L. G. , Jr. and Gonzales, G. F. Toxicological aspects of the South American herbs cat’s claw (Uncaria tomentosa) and Maca (Lepidium meyenii) : a critical synopsis. Toxicol. Rev 2005;24(1):11-35.

The dosage to increase energy levels is usually 1500 mg/day in divided doses, which is typically three 500 mg capsules per day. Supplements usually can be taken with or without food. [18] X Research source Valerio, L. G. , Jr. and Gonzales, G. F. Toxicological aspects of the South American herbs cat’s claw (Uncaria tomentosa) and Maca (Lepidium meyenii) : a critical synopsis. Toxicol. Rev 2005;24(1):11-35. [19] X Research source The amount of time before the effects are seen can vary, but you should start seeing results within 2-3 weeks.

Throw in some ice to make is a cold, refreshing smoothie. You can switch out the ingredients if you don’t like kiwis or bananas. Try adding a 1/2 cup of your favorite berries or other fruit such as peaches, apples, or nectarines. Choose whatever fruit combination you like best.

Don’t use more than a few teaspoons per serving. It might start to overpower other flavors, but use enough to get your daily boost of maca power.

Lay a piece of parchment paper on an 8x8 inch pan. Spread the mixture on the pan until flat and even. Refrigerate for about an hour, or until hard. [22] X Research source