Leaf & Herb · Root/Rhizome

Bolivian Wild Maca

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 Wild Maca (Lepidium meyenii) contains bioactive macamides that inhibit fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH), elevating endocannabinoid levels for neuroprotective and anti-fatigue effects. This cruciferous root from high-altitude Andean plateaus modulates the HPA axis via serotonergic pathways and CB receptors.

—

Screened PMID Records

Reported Benefits

Pending

Synergy Review

At a Glance

CategoryLeaf & Herb

GroupRoot/Rhizome

Public Score StatusProvisional Moderate

Primary Keywordbolivian wild maca benefits

Bolivian Wild Maca — botanical close-up

Reported Benefits (Provisional)

Promotes sustained energy and endurance without overstimulation, supporting physical performance and recovery, particularly under stress.

Enhances sexual health and libido by modulating key hormones and improving reproductive function in both men and women.

Supports hormonal balance, especially during menopause or periods of endocrine fluctuation, by acting as an adaptogen to normalize stress response.

Improves cognitive function by enhancing memory, focus, and mood, attributed to its neuroprotective antioxidants and amino acids.

Delivers anti-inflammatory benefits that support immune resilience and systemic equilibrium, reducing cellular stress.

Origin & History

Natural habitat

Bolivian Wild Maca (Lepidium meyenii) is a revered cruciferous root native to the high-altitude plateaus of the Bolivian Andes, thriving above 4,000 meters. Cultivated for millennia, this adaptogenic superfood is prized for its unique ability to enhance energy, fertility, and resilience in challenging environments.

“Revered by the Inca and pre-Inca Andean civilizations for over 2,000 years, Bolivian Wild Maca was considered a sacred crop. It served as both a vital food source and a powerful medicine, traditionally consumed by warriors for strength and endurance, and by women for fertility and hormonal balance.”Traditional Medicine

Research Narrative (Provisional)

Clinical trials and preclinical studies on Lepidium meyenii corroborate its adaptogenic properties, supporting sexual function, energy, and hormonal balance. Research indicates neuroprotective effects and improvements in mood and cognitive parameters. While evidence is strong for certain applications, ongoing research continues to explore its full therapeutic potential.

Preparation & Dosage

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

Nutritional Profile

- Macronutrients: Essential Amino Acids (e.g., arginine, leucine), Dietary Fiber, Essential Fatty Acids - Vitamins: B-complex vitamins (B1, B2), Vitamin C, Vitamin E - Minerals: Calcium, Magnesium, Zinc, Iron, Potassium, Copper - Bioactives: Macamides, Macaenes, Glucosinolates, Polyphenols, Sterols

Reported Mechanism (Provisional)

Mechanism of Action

Macamides (N-benzylhexadecanamide, N-benzyloctadecanamide) inhibit fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH), increasing endocannabinoid levels like anandamide for neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory effects. These compounds modulate the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis through serotonergic pathways and cannabinoid receptors, while also inhibiting CYP1A2 to preserve testosterone precursors. Glucosinolates metabolize to isothiocyanates for immunoregulatory effects, and phenolic compounds provide antioxidant activity via free radical scavenging.

Clinical Narrative (Provisional)

Current evidence is primarily preclinical, with nine studies reporting immunomodulatory and antitumor effects in laboratory models. Fermentation studies demonstrate enhanced bioactivity with total saponin content increasing from 30.9 mg OAE/g to 65.0 mg OAE/g and antioxidant capacity improving (DPPH SC50 from 2.14 mg/mL to 1.35 mg/mL). Human clinical trials with specific numerical outcomes for testosterone levels, libido scores, or hormonal parameters are notably absent from current research. While preclinical evidence supports adaptogenic properties, randomized controlled trials are needed to validate therapeutic claims in humans.

Also Known As

Lepidium meyeniiMacaAndean MacaHigh-altitude Maca

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.