Maca is a root from the Peruvian Andes, sold as powder or capsules for libido, energy and fertility.
Calculator Official intake Study doses Best form Safety Sources
This is not an essential nutrient, so there is no official daily intake. Only study doses are shown.
These are doses tested in research, not personal advice. Some exceed the upper limit because they were short courses or given under medical care.
1.5-3 g a day
In a 12-week trial in healthy men, 1.5 or 3 g a day improved self-reported sexual desire from week 8, without changing testosterone.
Other findings
For semen quality, a meta-analysis of 5 trials found unclear effects and no clear rise in sperm count. The trials were few and small.
Eaten as a root vegetable in Peru.
No well-documented interactions.
Generally well tolerated in short trials. Long-term safety is not well studied.
Pregnant, breastfeeding, on medication, or managing a health condition? Check with a doctor or pharmacist before starting a supplement.
Values checked: November 12, 2026.