Over 30% of men between the ages of 40 and 70 struggle with sexual dysfunction. In men, sexual dysfunctions include erectile dysfunction (ED), premature ejaculation, delayed or no ejaculation, and low libido.
There are medical treatments to help with these conditions. Yet, medication often comes with unwanted side effects. That is why many men are searching for a more natural solution to sexual dysfunction.
Maca root for men may be the answer you have been searching for. Ancient Peruvian people have used Maca root for centuries to improve sexual desire and fertility.
But is Maca root the right natural supplement for your sexual dysfunction? You’ve come to the right place to find out. Keep reading this guide to Maca root and its impact on male sex drive.
Table of contents
What Is Maca Root?
Maca root comes from a plant that originates in Peru. Its scientific name is Lepidium meyenii. Lepidium meyenii is unique because it only grows at certain altitudes in the Andes Mountains.
Ancient cultures used Maca root for a wide variety of ailments. There is little scientific proof of Maca’s use as an herbal medicine. Still, emerging research and anecdotal evidence purport that Maca is effective for some conditions.
Today, you can purchase Maca root as a supplement. It is also available in other formats (e.g., Maca coffee). Even if you do not use Maca for its possible medical benefits, Maca root is highly nutritious and great for your health.
Read more: The Top 6 Vitamins to Make You Last Longer In Bed
What Are the Benefits of Maca Root for Men?
The two Maca root benefits for men that are most supported by scientific evidence are libido and fertility. It is important to note that there is no solid proof that all Maca supplements are effective or even safe.
That is why you should always discuss supplements with your doctor before buying them.
May Increase Male Libido
Libido is also known as sexual desire. This aspect of sexuality refers to how mentally or emotionally ready you are for sex. Research shows that Maca root may help improve the desire for sex in men.
In a recent study of 57 men between the ages of 21 and 56, researchers looked at the effects of Maca root supplementation on libido levels. The researchers tested Maca against a placebo.
After four weeks, 24% of participants reported an increase in libido due to Maca root supplementation. The rate of improvement increased at eight weeks and then again at 12 weeks of treatment.
After 12 weeks, 42.2% of men in the experimental group (the group that took Maca) experienced increases in sexual desire. In comparison, 0% of the men in the placebo group experienced improvements after 12 weeks.
Read more: Herbal Viagra: A Natural Way To Boost Your Sexual Health
May Improve Fertility
Male infertility is a problem that around 15% of couples face. Men who struggle with fertility may produce less sperm or low-quality sperm. The good news is that Maca root may help.
Unfortunately, much of the research on Maca root’s benefits for fertility is in women. There are some older studies in small groups of men and male research animals to support Maca’s ability to improve sperm quantity.
A 2020 study, however, did find positive benefits of Maca on semen production in men. The researchers conducted the study on 69 men. They divided the men into a placebo group and an experimental group.
The experimental group received two grams of Maca for 12 weeks. After 12 weeks, the researchers found that these men had significantly improved semen concentration compared to the placebo group.
Does Maca Root Have Side Effects?
Unlike most prescription medications for sexual dysfunction, Maca root is safe and generally well-tolerated in adult males. To date, there are no recorded side effects of using Maca root supplements.
Of course, you should always follow the dosing guidelines listed on the product label to avoid unwanted effects.
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How to Incorporate Maca Root into Your Wellness Routine
Maca root typically comes in powder or supplement form. Maca root powder is great for adding to recipes or brewing up with your coffee. Supplements are best for people who live busy lifestyles.
Maca Root Recipes to Try
Energy balls are the tastiest way to get your Maca in. To make them, add two tablespoons of Maca powder, one cup of oats, half a cup of chocolate chips, one cup of peanut butter, and half a cup of honey or maple syrup to a bowl. Combine until homogenous and place in the freezer until you’re ready to enjoy.
If you are always on the go, try a Maca smoothie. Add a scoop of protein powder, one tablespoon of Maca powder, one cup of milk, and a frozen banana to your blender. Blend until smooth, and enjoy with a straw!
Maca Coffee for Men
Maca energy coffee for men is a new way to take this supplement. There are many brands that sell Arabica coffee infused with ingredients like Maca. Or you can simply add a spoonful of Maca powder to your morning cup of joe.
You can also turn your Maca coffee into a latte. Add one teaspoon of Maca powder to a cup of hot milk (non-dairy is fine). Dissolve the Maca in the milk, then add half of a teaspoon of vanilla and your sweetener of choice.
Read more: Taking Propecia: Propecia Side Effects to Know About
Maca Root Supplements
There are tons of Maca root supplements on the market. We recommend checking out the following:
- SimpleLife Nutrition Maca Powder Capsules
- Sunfood Superfoods Organic Maca Powder
- NusaPure Back Maca Powder
You can also speak with a healthcare professional about the best Maca root supplements for your needs.
Are There Other Natural Supplements for Men’s Sexual Health?
A recent review looked at the benefits of different supplements for sexual dysfunction in men and women. In addition to Maca, the study looked at the benefits of the following on male sexual performance:
- S-adenosyl-L-methionine
- Rosa damascena
- Ginkgo biloba
- Saffron
- Yohimbine
Maca root, S-adenosyl-L-methionine, and saffron had the most robust evidence for their effects on sexual health in men and women. Ginkgo biloba and Yohimbine had no effects. Rosa damascena may work for men but not women.
There is one major limitation to these findings. The study looked at sexual dysfunctions stemming from antidepressant use. Not all sexual dysfunctions occur as a side effect of medication.
The Final Word on Maca Root
If you are looking for a natural remedy for sexual dysfunction, Maca root for men may be right for you. There is some evidence to support this herb’s benefits for sexual desire and sperm quality. Infomedly is your source for reliable health information. Subscribe to our newsletter today to get new health articles delivered straight to your inbox.
