Written by Andrew Lenau | ISSA CPT & Sports Nutritionist
Fact checked by Robert Iafelice, MS, RD, LDN
FACT CHECKED
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Maca Root often referred to as "Peruvian Ginseng," is a plant native to the high elevations of the Andes Mountains in Peru. It has a long history of use by the Incas, who consumed it for energy, vitality, and sexual arousal.
Today, Maca is often used by men to enhance libido, strength, and energy levels and by women to balance hormones, improve libido, reduce menopause symptoms, and improve mood. If you are interested in trying a Maca supplement, it is crucial to choose a high-quality product to ensure that you are getting the best possible benefits.
To help you find the right option for your needs, we have researched and reviewed dozens of products to compile a list of the top-ranked Maca Root supplements on the market today.
7 Best Maca Root Supplements
- Best Overall: NaturaLife Labs Maca
- Best Value: Double Wood Maca Root
- Powder Form: BulkSupplements Maca Root Extract
- Fast-Acting: Nootropics Depot Maca Extract
- Most Potent: Gold Health Maca + Panax Ginseng
- Single Origin Maca Root Supplement: Toniiq Maca
- Libido Boosting: Clean Neutraceuticals Ashwagandha Maca Fenugreek
SFS Pick
NaturaLife Labs
Value Pick
Double Wood
SFS Powder Pick
BulkSupplements
1. Best Overall Maca Root Supplement: NaturaLife Labs Maca
NaturalLife Labs offers a potent organic Maca Root supplement in veggie capsules. Each bottle contains 150 capsules, providing 75 servings when taken according to the brand's recommended guidelines.
Each serving delivers 1,900mg of pure organic Maca powder from red, yellow, and black maca root making it the best maca supplement on the market. NaturalLife Labs claims this supplement may support reproductive health, sexual well-being, and hormonal balance. It may also act as a natural energy booster due to its high content of amino acids, essential minerals, and phytonutrients.
We love this maca supplement thanks to its high dosage, purity and value for money. Out of the many maca root supplements we've tried we think that you can't go wrong with this one.
The capsules are free from soy, yeast, starch, preservatives, artificial fillers, binders, and other unwanted ingredients and are manufactured in an FDA-registered facility in compliance with Good Manufacturing Practices.
NaturalLife is so confident with their product that if you don't feel the results, you can get your money back, no questions asked.
NaturalLife Labs suggests taking two capsules twice a day with meals for best results.
Pros
- Certified organic, Non-GMO and vegan friendly
- Premium quality ingredients
- Fantastic reviews
Cons
- Some people experienced too high of energy levels on this product
SUPERIOR POTENCY 1900 MG our organic maca root delivers 1900 mg per serving with 150 vegan capsules making it the most potent formula available on the market...
2. Best Value Maca Root Supplement: Double Wood Maca Root
Double Wood Supplements offers a high-quality Maca Root supplement with 100% pure Maca Root and does not contain any fillers or other unwanted additives.
Each bottle contains 150 maca powder capsules, providing a total of 75-150 servings, depending on which of the brand's recommended guidelines you follow.
Double Wood Supplements recommends taking the capsules on an empty stomach and not exceeding 4,000 mg daily. Other ingredients include vegetable cellulose (capsule) and rice flour.
The brand proudly states that its Maca supplement is manufactured in the USA and is tested for purity and potency. The supplement is free from gluten and soy while being certified non-GMO and vegan.
Overall, Double Wood Supplements' Maca Root is an effective and reasonably priced option for those seeking the potential benefits of Maca root.
Pros
- Certificates of Analysis on the website
- Pure ingredients
- Money back guarantee
Cons
- Not vegan certified
Our Maca supplement is manufactured right here in the U.S.A. and is tested for purity and potency...
3. Best Maca Root Powder Supplement: BulkSupplements Maca Root Extract
BulkSupplements Maca Root supplement is a high-quality powder with simple ingredients and incredible versatility. BulkSupplements recommends taking 3000 milligrams (about one teaspoon) up to three times daily.
There is an assortment of size options from the BulkSupplements official website. BulkSupplements takes great pride in creating clean and pure supplements; this product is no exception, as only one ingredient is listed.
The supplement powder is free of sugar, soy, dairy, yeast, gluten, and other additives. Like other BulkSupplement supplements, their Maca Root powder is manufactured in an FDA-approved facility, upholds cGMP standards, is verified third-party tested and is ISO 17025 certified lab tested to ensure high-quality products every time.
To make consuming the powder more manageable, we recommend adding it to smoothies, protein shakes, fruit juice, or just a glass of water.
Pros
- Versatile
- Unflavored
- Great reviews
Cons
- Have to measure out each serving size
BulkSupplements maca root extract powder deliver 3000mg in each teaspoon sized serving...
4. Best Fast-Acting Maca Root Supplement: Nootropics Depot Maca Extract
Nootropics Depot Maca Extract capsules are formulated to improve energy levels, vitality, and mood for both men and women.
Each bottle contains 60 or 180 capsules/servings, depending on the size bottle you pick.
Nootropics Depot recommends taking one capsule daily, and every capsule contains 200 mg of Maca Extract. The only other ingredients are magnesium stearate and vegetable cellulose.
The product is manufactured and verified in Nootropics Depot's cGMP-certified facility and lab. Nootropics Depot even has the specification and validation sheet on its website that proves the quality and purity of its Maca Extract supplement.
With their special 5% Macamide extract, the effects start to take hold very rapidly, and in as little as 30 minutes, you will begin to feel a nice rise in mood and energy levels.
Pros
- Fast-acting extract
- The dose is only one capsule
- The website has specification and validation proof
Cons
- Not certified vegetarian or vegan
With our 5% macamide extract, the effects start to take hold very rapidly. In about 30 minutes you will start to feel a pleasant rise in mood and energy levels, which continues to build for the next 30 minutes...
5. Most Potent Maca Root Supplement: Gold Health Maca + Panax Ginseng
Gold Health Maca + Panax Ginseng capsules deliver an ultra-concentrated formula to boost energy, stamina, performance, and focus throughout the day.
This incredibly potent blend provides 500mg of the highest quality Maca Root Extract made from a tri-blend of carefully selected black, yellow, and red maca root extracts. Each serving also contains 140 mg worth of Korean Panax Ginseng Extract leaf.
This 20:1 extract ratio results in 20X the potency of normal Maca powder making it one of the of the market's most potent Maca Root supplements.
To ensure that Gold Health is offering only the highest quality products, all of them are manufactured in a GMP-certified non-GMO factory in the USA.
The capsules are vegan-friendly and contain zero gluten, soy, eggs, dairy, nuts, or preservatives. Per bottle, you'll receive 120 veggie capsules, which equates to four months worth of servings.
Unlike many companies, Gold Health has its Maca + Panax Ginseng supplement tested twice for quality and purity. They recommend that you take one capsule daily with food.
Pros
- Made in the USA & tested twice
- Potent blend for higher effectiveness
- Vegan & GMO free
Cons
- Higher potency may cause an upset stomach
The Highly Concentrated Form of X Gold Health Maca + Ginseng , a powerful blend of 10000mg Maca Root Pills (20X MORE STRENGTH) and 1400mg Korean Panax Ginseng...
6. Best Single Origin Maca Root Supplement: Toniiq Maca
Toniiq's Maca Root capsules are made with a highly potent, single-origin wildcrafted Maca Root extract.
Each container contains 90 capsules, each of which provides 500mg of a 20:1 concentrated extract of Maca Root.
The capsules also contain hydroxypropyl Methylcellulose, vegetable cellulose, magnesium stearate, and silicon dioxide. Toniiq claims that their Maca complex can improve endurance and sexual health in both men and women.
The product is ethically sourced from Peruvian family-owned farms and is produced in GMP-certified and NSF-approved facilities in the USA.
Toniiq tests each batch through a third-party independent laboratory to ensure the ingredients contain the correct standardized level of purity and active ingredients.
Their website contains a certificate of analysis and third-party lab results if you're interested in checking that out. One to two capsules are recommended per day for optimal results.
Pros
- Single-origin extract high strength blend
- Certificates of purity are available for viewing
- Good reviews
Cons
- Not certified vegan friendly
Toniiq Maca capsules contain 500mg of the highest quality maca root powder in each pill– grown and cultivated in Peru using an extraction process to ensure a 20:1 extract ratio...
7. Best Libido Boosting Maca Root Supplement: Clean Neutraceuticals Ashwagandha Maca Fenugreek
Clean Nutraceuticals Ashwagandha, Maca, and Fenugreek supplement with Tongkat Ali is the best libido-boosting option on our list.
This capsule contains 17 powerful ingredients to help maximize absorption and effectiveness.
Some of the main ingredients included are Black Maca Root Powder, Red Maca Root Powder, Yellow Maca Root Powder, Maca Root, Ashwagandha, and Fenugreek Seed.
Clean Nutraceuticals Maca supplement is proudly made in the USA in a registered and certified facility, so there are no unnecessary preservatives or fillers.
It is also third-party tested and certified gluten and GMO-free. You'll receive 60 capsules per bottle, which equals a thirty-day supply.
Pros
- 17 ingredients in each serving
- Third party tested
- Uses all natural ingredients
Cons
- It contains a proprietary blend
Our capsules contain 17 powerful ingredients such as Black Maca Root Powder, Red Maca Root Powder, Yellow Maca Root Powder, and Fenugreek Seed. Maca Capsules have been combined with Fenugreek...
What is Maca Root?
Maca, also commonly referred to as Lepidium Meyenii, is a native plant to the Peruvian Andes and often referred to as Peruvian ginseng. It is a relative of the cruciferous vegetable family that includes broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, and kale.
For over 2000 years, the Andean people have cultivated Maca as a food and natural medicine to treat various health conditions. In recent years, the demand for Maca products has increased due to claims that they can enhance libido and fertility.
Maca root, the most commonly used part of the plant, contains fiber, amino acids, vitamins, minerals, and bioactive compounds such as macamides, macaridine, alkaloids, and glucosinolates. While some believe that Maca has various health benefits, the research on its effectiveness is limited, and findings have been mixed.
Further study is needed to understand the potential benefits of Maca fully.
Benefits of Maca Root:
Maca root is a valuable addition to any supplement regimen due to its potential nutritional and health benefits. One of the most known benefits of Maca Root is its potential to enhance libido.
In addition, maca root may also provide other health benefits, such as improving fertility, reducing menopause symptoms, improving mood, and reducing anxiety.
Let's break down further the benefits of taking Maca Root and what it can bring to your health.
1. Boosts Energy and Endurance
Some believe Maca Root may help boost energy and endurance, likely due to its high nutrient content and potential effects on the endocrine system. For example, Maca Root contains various nutrients, including fiber, amino acids, vitamins, and minerals, which can support overall health and well-being.
In addition, some research suggests that Maca root may help to improve energy metabolism and reduce fatigue, making it a potential natural option for increasing energy and endurance.1 However, more research is required to fully understand the potential benefits of Maca root for boosting energy and endurance.
2. May increase libido
Evidence suggests that taking concentrated Maca root supplements may benefit those with low libido or sexual dysfunction. According to a 2010 review that analyzed four high-quality studies with a total of 131 participants, taking Maca Root may improve sexual desire after at least six weeks.2
However, the review's authors cautioned that the studies included were small and that the evidence was insufficient to make firm conclusions.
3. May Increase male fertility
Maca root is a popular ingredient in male fertility supplements because it has been shown to affect male fertility positively. It may improve libido and sexual function, increase sperm quality and quantity, and help to balance hormones.
Studies have found that Maca root can improve seminal volume, sperm count, and sperm motility, all of which are important factors in male fertility.3 In addition to these physical benefits, Maca root may provide mental benefits supporting male fertility.
Overall, Maca root is a versatile and effective natural supplement for promoting male fertility. You can learn more about this in our article: Does Maca Increase Testosterone?
4. Mood Enhancer
Maca root is classified as an adaptogenic herb, which may help the body cope with stress. Adaptogenic herbs balance the body's hypothalamic pituitary adrenal (HPA) axis, which regulates the stress response.4
Some people believe that Maca root may have mood-enhancing properties, although the research on this topic is limited. A few small studies have also suggested that Maca root may improve mood in postmenopausal women and reduce mild anxiety symptoms.
However, more research is needed to truly understand Maca Root's potential mood-enhancing effects and determine the optimal dosage and duration of use.
5. Lower Blood Pressure
Maintaining healthy blood pressure is one of the most important things we should be doing to support our optimal well-being and increase longevity. A study showed a significant decrease in diastolic blood pressure and depression when Maca Root was supplemented.5
6. Antioxidant enhancer
Maca root can promote natural antioxidants in the body, such as glutathione and superoxide dismutase.6 This is important because antioxidants help to fight off free radicals, which can damage cells.
Some people also believe that antioxidants can help prevent some health conditions, including heart disease and cancer.
Side Effects of Maca Root
According to research, using Maca root is generally considered safe and does not appear to be associated with significant side effects. Additionally, traditional methods of consuming Maca, such as boiling and consuming it as a food or drink, have not been linked to adverse outcomes.
However, it is currently unknown whether Maca is safe to consume during pregnancy or breastfeeding, so individuals in these situations should consult a healthcare provider before taking Maca Root supplements.
What to look for when buying Maca root supplements:
When shopping for Maca root supplements, you must consider certain vital features to ensure you get a high-quality product. Before making a purchase, take the time to research and compare different brands to find the one that best meets your needs.
Here are the factors we used to compile our list and what we recommend you use when doing your research.
1. Ingredients
One of the most important factors when researching Maca Root supplements is ensuring that the ingredients are pure and void of fillers. We recommend looking for allergens and identifying ingredient sources if you suffer from severe allergies.
Maca root is grown in several color variations, the most commonly used being yellow, black, and red. While some think each color has unique properties, there isn't any substantial proof to back this claim up. You may also see it comes in multiple forms such as pure gelatinized maca powder, maca extract or organic maca capsules.
When looking at Maca Root supplements, you may see them paired with other ingredients, such as Ginseng and Ashwagandha. Some ingredients such as these complement Maca Root and can further improve the benefits you will see.
2. Dosages
The recommended dosage of Maca root supplements can vary depending on the form of the supplement and the specific product. Some products may recommend taking one or two capsules daily, while others may recommend a particular amount of powder to be taken daily.
It is worth noting that the optimal dosage of Maca root supplements has yet to be established, and more research is needed to determine the most effective dosage for different uses.
If you are considering taking Maca root supplements, you should consult a healthcare provider to determine the appropriate dosage.
3. Testing/transparency
Before taking any supplement, it is essential to carefully review the ingredients list to ensure that it does not contain additives, preservatives, or other unnecessary fillers. This step is necessary if you are looking for a pure or nearly pure supplement.
While not all manufacturers use independent third-party testing for their supplements, those that do will often mention this in their marketing materials. By taking the time to research the ingredients and testing methods used thoroughly, you can make an informed decision and choose a supplement that meets your needs and preferences.
4. Price
When comparing Maca supplement options, it can be helpful to consider the cost per serving rather than the overall price of the product. This can help you find a financially sustainable option that benefits you most.
Remember that the price of Maca supplements can be influenced by factors such as quality, manufacturing, and other considerations. Generally, high-quality options that are clinically dosed, third-party tested, come from a reputable brand, and have positive customer reviews tend to be priced in the range of $15 to $40.
It's also important to note that the number of servings per container is a critical factor that can impact the overall price of Maca Root.
5. Reviews
One effective method for determining the quality of a Maca Root brand is to read through customer reviews. These can often be found on the brand's official website in the review section.
By reading through previous customers' experiences, you can understand the product's effectiveness and any potential issues to be aware of. The official brand's website is typically the most reliable place to find these reviews, as customers are likelier to share their honest opinions.
Maca Root FAQs
What is the benefit of maca root?
Maca Root has been used for centuries but has recently become one of the newest remedies to take center stage in the natural health community. Researchers are continually developing new health benefits associated with this powerful root vegetable.
Maca Root is considered an "adaptogen," a name given to certain herbs, plants, and other natural substances that can aid the body in naturally adapting to stressors. Not only that, but Maca provides a host of essential micronutrients and is jam-packed with antioxidants.
It has also been shown to improve sexual health, balance hormone levels, and boost natural energy levels, mood, and memory.
What does maca root do for a woman?
Some people believe that Maca root may have various health benefits for women, such as:
- Improving fertility: Some research suggests that Maca root may help to improve fertility in women.
- Enhancing libido: Some claim that Maca root can help increase libido in women.
- Alleviating menopause symptoms: Some believe Maca Root may help reduce menopause symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, and mood swings.
- Improving mood: Some studies have found that Maca root may have an antidepressant-like effect and may help to improve mood in women.
Does Maca work like viagra?
While maca supplements can have some potential as a natural alternative for treating sexual dysfunction, it is essential to note that it is not a substitute for prescription medications like Viagra. If you are experiencing sexual dysfunction, you must speak with a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Is it ok the have Maca every day?
There is limited research on the long-term effects of taking Maca root supplements daily. Some people take Maca Root supplements daily, but following the dosage instructions on the product label is generally recommended.
Maca supplementation doses of up to three grams daily are safe for up to four months. Speaking with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen is also a good idea.
Summary
When purchasing the best Maca supplements, you have many options available. However, not all brands can be trusted to provide high-quality products at a reasonable price. Our top pick is from NaturaLife Labs but you can't go wrong with any on this list.
To ensure that you get the best value for your money, consider researching customer reviews and paying attention to a brand's ingredients, doses, reputation, and track record of customer satisfaction. With these factors in mind, you can confidently decide and find a Maca Root supplement that meets your needs.
SUPERIOR POTENCY 1900 MG our organic maca root delivers 1900 mg per serving with 150 vegan capsules making it the most potent formula available on the market...
If you're looking for more natural supplements that may help with boosting endurance and libido then make sure to check out our post that covers the Best Horny Goat Weed Supplements on the market.
References
- Gonzales-Arimborgo, Carla, et al. “Acceptability, Safety, and Efficacy of Oral Administration of Extracts of Black or Red Maca (Lepidium Meyenii) in Adult Human Subjects: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study.” Pharmaceuticals, vol. 9, no. 3, 1 Sept. 2016, p. 49, www.mdpi.com/1424-8247/9/3/49/htm, 10.3390/ph9030049.
- Shin, Byung-Cheul, et al. “Maca (L. Meyenii) for Improving Sexual Function: A Systematic Review.” BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine, vol. 10, no. 1, 6 Aug. 2010, 10.1186/1472-6882-10-44.
- Gonzales, G. F., et al. “Lepidium Meyenii (Maca) Improved Semen Parameters in Adult Men.” Asian Journal of Andrology, vol. 3, no. 4, 1 Dec. 2001, pp. 301–303, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11753476/.
- Ai, Zhong, et al. “Antidepressant-like Behavioral, Anatomical, and Biochemical Effects of Petroleum Ether Extract from Maca (Lepidium Meyenii) in Mice Exposed to Chronic Unpredictable Mild Stress.” Journal of Medicinal Food, vol. 17, no. 5, May 2014, pp. 535–542, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4025608/, 10.1089/jmf.2013.2950.
- Stojanovska, L., et al. “Maca Reduces Blood Pressure and Depression, in a Pilot Study in Postmenopausal Women.” Climacteric: The Journal of the International Menopause Society, vol. 18, no. 1, 1 Feb. 2015, pp. 69–78, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24931003/, 10.3109/13697137.2014.929649. Accessed 8 Oct. 2020.
- Korkmaz, Serol. Antioxidants in Maca (Lepidium Meyenii) as a Supplement in Nutrition. Www.intechopen.com, IntechOpen, 11 July 2018, www.intechopen.com/chapters/60194. Accessed 12 Jan. 2023.
Andrew Lenau
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