Leaf & Herb · Root/Rhizome

Bolivian Maca Root

Provisional Moderate ScoreCompound

Hermetica Superfood Encyclopedia

Published March 15, 2026Last updated March 15, 2026Methodology · Editorial policy · Report an error

Evidence review status: unreviewed

Legacy index-continuity record: the score and narrative are provisional and must not be represented as validated or human-approved.

Review flags: AWAITING_SEMANTIC_VALIDATION

Provisional Summary

Bolivian Maca Root (Lepidium meyenii) contains macamides and glucosinolates that modulate the HPA axis and inhibit fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) to influence hormonal pathways. Clinical evidence remains primarily preclinical, with human trials lacking specific quantified outcomes for its traditional uses in fertility and energy enhancement.

—

Screened PMID Records

Reported Benefits

Pending

Synergy Review

At a Glance

CategoryLeaf & Herb

GroupRoot/Rhizome

Public Score StatusProvisional Moderate

Primary Keywordbolivian maca root benefits

Bolivian Maca Root — botanical close-up

Reported Benefits (Provisional)

Supports hormonal balance by modulating endocrine function, particularly in relation to thyroid, adrenal, and reproductive hormones.

Enhances reproductive health and fertility by improving gamete quality and balancing sex hormone levels in both men and women.

Boosts sustained energy levels and physical stamina by optimizing cellular metabolism and reducing fatigue.

Improves mood and reduces perceived stress by acting as an adaptogen, supporting the body's resilience to stressors.

Provides antioxidant protection, particularly from polyphenols and flavonoids, which combat oxidative stress at a cellular level.

Origin & History

Natural habitat

Bolivian Maca Root (Lepidium meyenii) is a cruciferous root vegetable native to the high-altitude Andes mountains of Bolivia, thriving in cold, dry climates. It has been cultivated for millennia in nutrient-rich soils. This adaptogenic superfood is valued for its capacity to support energy, hormonal balance, and overall vitality.

“For over 2,000 years, Maca has been a staple food and medicinal plant for Indigenous Andean civilizations, including the Inca. Revered for its ability to enhance fertility, endurance, and vitality, it was traditionally consumed by warriors and used in rituals to promote strength and reproductive health.”Traditional Medicine

Research Narrative (Provisional)

Clinical research and animal studies support Maca's adaptogenic effects on hormonal balance, energy, and reproductive health. Studies indicate its potential to improve sperm quality and libido in men, and alleviate menopausal symptoms in women. While promising, more large-scale human trials are needed to fully elucidate all mechanisms.

Preparation & Dosage

Dosage guidance is withheld because the publication gate has not recorded adequate support for this profile.

Nutritional Profile

- Macronutrients: Protein, Dietary Fiber - Vitamins: B-complex vitamins (B1, B2, B6), Vitamin C, Vitamin E - Minerals: Calcium, Magnesium, Iron, Zinc, Potassium - Bioactives: Macamides, Macaenes, Glucosinolates, Polyphenols, Flavonoids

Reported Mechanism (Provisional)

Mechanism of Action

Macamides, particularly N-benzylhexadecanamide (NBH), inhibit fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) and modulate anandamide and serotoninergic pathways while affecting the HPA axis. Glucosinolates hydrolyze via myrosinase into bioactive isothiocyanates and thiocyanates for immunomodulatory effects. NBH also binds CYP1A2, preserving DHEA for testosterone synthesis, while methanolic compounds inhibit renin (IC₅₀ 24.79 ng/mL) and ACE (IC₅₀ 22.02 ng/mL).

Clinical Narrative (Provisional)

Current evidence is primarily preclinical and in vitro, with no specific quantified human clinical trials reported in recent research. Animal studies suggest improvements in endurance, sexual function, and memory, while in vitro studies show fermentation increases total saponin content from 30.9 mg OAE/g to 65.0 mg OAE/g and improves antioxidant capacity by 19.85%. Fermented maca enhanced neuroprotection by 23% in HT-22 cells. Large-scale human trials with specific dosages and measurable outcomes are needed to validate traditional uses for hormonal balance and reproductive health.

Also Known As

Lepidium meyeniiLepidium peruvianumPeruvian ginsengmainoayak chichiraayak willku

Browse All Ingredients More Root/Rhizome About the Encyclopedia

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

From the Hermetica Research Desk

Research updates — and 25% off your first order

Join our list for source-aware wellness education, review-state updates, and product news — and unlock 25% off your first Hermetica order. Educational content is not medical advice. No spam, unsubscribe anytime.

Educational content only — not medical advice.