Maca

Maca is an over-the-counter supplement. The Shin systematic review (BMC Complement Altern Med 2010) pooled 4 RCTs with 131 participants: at 1.5–3 g/day for 12 weeks in men with mild erectile dysfunction, maca gave a small improvement on the IIEF questionnaire versus placebo. Effect size was small, methodology weak and investigator funding by Peruvian maca producers not fully disclosed. Current AUA 2018 and EAU 2024 ED guidelines recommend PDE-5 inhibitors (sildenafil, tadalafil) as first line, testosterone screening, cardiovascular risk assessment and lifestyle factors. Maca is not in international guidelines. If maca was bought instead of seeing a urologist for persistent erectile problems, discuss with a doctor; ED can be the first sign of occult coronary disease and type 2 diabetes.

ICD-10: N52.9 · ICD-11: HA01.1

Maca is the root of a Peruvian plant (Lepidium meyenii), sold as a superfood and adaptogen. In this category it gets promoted for energy, libido, stamina and easing menopausal symptoms. Studies have not shown convincing benefit for these claimed effects: there is no solid evidence base for this use. If low energy, libido problems or menopausal symptoms bother you, a doctor can help pin down the cause and choose an approach with proven benefit. Maca should not be taken in place of treatment with established benefit, so you do not miss out on the care you need.