Maca

Also known as lepidium meyenii, maca root.

Last reviewed October 9, 2026 · Jump to references

What is Maca?

In plain words

Maca is a plant from the Andes whose root-like part is eaten or made into supplements. The body digests its nutrients and breaks down or absorbs some of its plant chemicals. Researchers study it for sexual desire, fertility, and menopause symptoms. Human studies are generally small, and long-term supplement safety is not well established.

Technical definition

Maca (Lepidium meyenii) is an Andean plant in the Brassicaceae family whose fleshy hypocotyl and taproot are consumed as food and used in botanical supplements. It contains glucosinolates and fatty-acid derivatives called macamides, but no single molecular target, receptor, or clinical mechanism has been established for maca preparations. In the United States, maca is marketed as a food or dietary supplement, not as an FDA-approved treatment for disease.

Educational information only. This page does not provide medical advice or determine whether a supplement is appropriate for you. Review supplements with a qualified healthcare professional, especially if you take medication, are pregnant, have surgery scheduled, or have a chronic medical condition.

Evidence by use

Each use is rated on its own. There is no single overall effectiveness score.