Are you in a dilemma about whether to buy maca root to improve testosterone? In the US, maca is available in the market in various forms such as powder, capsule, and tincture.
However, before taking any supplement, it’s quite important to understand its effectiveness. Before delving deep into whether maca root actually improves testosterone, let’s start off with what exactly is maca root and its various benefits.
What is Maca?
A cruciferous root vegetable, maca is also known as Peruvian ginseng. It is related to turnips and radishes and comes in different colors such as red, black, yellow, and brown.
Top Science-Backed Benefits of Maca Root In Sex Life
Let’s quickly find out how maca root benefits sexual life.
1. May boost libido
According to several scientific studies, maca has properties that help boost libido. Cassie Wilder, N.D. a registered naturopathic doctor says that maca is believed to have aphrodisiac properties and it does not change hormone levels. A study conducted in 2019 among male mice revealed that Maca in combination with Chinese chive seed (Allium tuberosum) improved erectile dysfunction.
2. May increase sperm count
According to Karen Koffler, M.D. an integrative medicine doctor from Coral Gables, Florida, men benefit enormously from maca as it is associated with producing a higher sperm count. A 2020 study shows that consuming 2 grams (g) of maca per day for 12 weeks led to a major improvement in semen concentration compared with a placebo treatment.
Does Maca Root Actually Improve Testosterone?
Now let’s find out the answer to the original question. Does maca root actually improve testosterone? Over the last several years, many studies have been conducted on maca’s potential to increase testosterone. Though some studies established a positive association between maca root consumption and elevated testosterone levels, others failed to prove a direct correlation.
- A 2023 study published in the National Center for Biotechnology Information states that treatment with Maca does not affect serum testosterone levels.
- Another study published in 2016 in Andrologia had a contrasting view that feeding hydroalcoholic extract powder of Lepidium meyenii (maca) leads to an elevation in serum testosterone concentration.
Does Maca Contain Testosterone?
Maca neither contains testosterone nor any other hormone. It works in such a way that the maca stimulates the body to produce and regulate hormones so that a healthy hormone balance is achieved.
As discussed earlier, maca has not been found to be effective in boosting overall serum testosterone levels. However, males who consumed maca experienced energizing effects suggesting that it is having a positive effect on the endocrine system.
How To Consume Maca Root?
It is considered safe to consume up to 3 grams of maca a day, says the National Library of Medicine. Experts also recommend consuming it for six to 16 weeks and seeing whether it is really making a difference. If you have bought maca in powder form, it can be mixed with food or drinks. The other preferred way of consuming it is by adding maca to sweet baked goods (like brownies), soups, smoothies, and juices.
In case you are sensitive to herbs or experience trouble sleeping, it is recommended to have it earlier in the day as maca has energy-boosting properties.
Things To Keep In Mind
- Before buying maca, make sure that it is tested for toxicity from a third-party laboratory.
- Pregnant or lactating women should not use maca it has not been scientifically tested among those categories of people.
- When you are using it for the first time, start with a very small amount and gradually increase it to a full dose.
Conclusion
Hope the article offered valuable insights on maca root. However, when it comes to the effectiveness of improving testosterone, there are differing views. Apart from boosting sexual health and fertility, maca has also been found effective in reducing menopause symptoms and improving mood in some people. Last but not least, it is important not to consider maca as a remedy for all health issues. More studies need to be conducted before maca can be used for treating any health condition or symptom. As a beginner, consult with your doctor whether maca is the right choice for your health needs.
