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Also known as: Lepidium meyenii, Peruvian ginseng, maca
A Peruvian root vegetable used traditionally as an adaptogen. Marketed for energy, libido, and hormonal balance. Some small trials suggest benefit for menopausal symptoms and sexual function. Not oestrogen-based and considered safe for women who cannot take HRT, though evidence is limited.
This page contains self-reported experiences from the Narrated community — not clinical data. Outcomes are subjective. Always consult your GP or specialist before starting, stopping, or changing any intervention.
Total Reports
3
Median Score (Wk 8)
5/10
Would Continue
0%
Avg Duration
9 wk
Most Common Goal
libido
Most Reported Side Effect
Bloating initially (33%)
Based on self-reported community data. Scores use a 1–10 scale.
Regulatory status does not mean an intervention is safe or unsafe. Laws vary by country — check your local regulations.
Women who reported on Maca Root mentioned using it for the following goals. This does not mean it is intended for or achieves any of these outcomes.
3 reports from women who tried Maca Root
I started taking maca after reading it was popular for libido and energy. After 8 weeks I'd say there was a small improvement — I felt a bit more interested and my energy was slightly better. It's hard to know how much was placebo. I didn't experience dramatic results but it wasn't unpleasant either.
Maca helped modestly with the mood and energy during perimenopause. It's adaptogenic effect meant I felt slightly less reactive to stress. The improvement was real but subtle — I'd describe it as taking the edge off rather than resolving the mood issues. Still taking it as a low-risk adjunct.
I tried maca for libido and energy during perimenopause. There was a modest improvement in energy levels and my mood was slightly better on it. The libido effect was minimal. It's affordable and relatively benign so I continued it as a background supplement, though it's not transformative on its own.
Research context compiled from published sources
The mechanism is not well characterised. Does not appear to directly alter sex hormone levels. May act on the hypothalamic–pituitary axis or via glucosinolate derivatives. Proposed effects include adaptogenic modulation of stress hormones and central effects on mood and libido.
Emerging Research
Limited human trials. Most evidence comes from animal studies or small human studies.
Limited
Only short-term data available. Long-term effects are not well understood.
Dose ranges from published research. Individual dosing should be determined with your healthcare provider based on your specific circumstances.
Factual research context from published sources — not a safety assessment or recommendation. Research classifications may change as new data emerges.
Other Supplement tracked on Narrated.
Data last updated: March 19, 2026