South American Traditional Medicine · South American

Maca Roja (Red Maca)

Provisional Moderate Scorebotanical

Hermetica Superfood Encyclopedia

Published March 18, 2026Last updated March 18, 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

Red maca (Lepidium meyenii) contains glucosinolates and macamides that modulate hormone balance and neurotransmitter activity. This Andean root specifically targets prostate health and mood regulation through 5-HT receptor pathways.

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Screened PMID Records

Reported Benefits

Pending

Synergy Review

At a Glance

CategorySouth American Traditional Medicine

GroupSouth American

Public Score StatusProvisional Moderate

Primary Keywordred maca benefits

Maca Roja close-up macro showing natural texture and detail — rich in hormonal balance, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory

Maca Roja (Red Maca) — botanical close-up

Reported Benefits (Provisional)

Supports prostate health

Red maca reduces prostate size, improving urinary function. This promotes male reproductive health. - Enhances mood: Contains compounds that elevate serotonin levels, reducing depression symptoms. This fosters emotional stability and happiness. - Boosts energy: Increases stamina and endurance, enhancing physical performance. This combats fatigue and boosts daily productivity. - Balances hormones: Regulates estrogen levels, alleviating menopause symptoms. This supports hormonal equilibrium and well-being. - Improves skin health: Rich in antioxidants, it protects against UV damage. This maintains skin elasticity and youthfulness. - Supports bone health: Contains calcium and potassium, essential for bone density. This reduces the risk of osteoporosis. - Enhances libido: Known for its aphrodisiac properties, it boosts sexual desire and performance. This revitalizes intimate relationships.

Origin & History

Natural habitat

Red Maca is a distinct variety of maca, cultivated in the high-altitude regions of Peru. It is known for its potential health benefits, particularly for women's health.

“Red Maca has been used traditionally by Andean cultures for its potential health benefits, particularly in supporting female reproductive health.”Traditional Medicine

Research Narrative (Provisional)

Research on Red Maca indicates potential benefits for bone health and hormone balance. Some studies suggest it may help reduce prostate size and improve mood.

Preparation & Dosage

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

Nutritional Profile

{"macronutrients": {"carbohydrates": "59-60g per 100g", "protein": "10-14g per 100g", "fats": "2-3g per 100g", "fiber": "8-9g per 100g"}, "micronutrients": {"vitamins": {"vitamin C": "3-5mg per 100g", "vitamin B6": "0.3-0.5mg per 100g"}, "minerals": {"calcium": "150-200mg per 100g", "iron": "12-15mg per 100g", "potassium": "1500-2000mg per 100g", "copper": "0.6-0.8mg per 100g", "manganese": "0.8-1.0mg per 100g"}}, "bioactive_compounds": {"glucosinolates": "0.3-0.5% of dry weight", "polyphenols": "0.1-0.2% of dry weight", "macamides": "0.05-0.1% of dry weight"}, "bioavailability_notes": "The bioavailability of maca's nutrients can be influenced by its preparation method. Cooking or gelatinization may enhance the digestibility and absorption of its compounds."}

Reported Mechanism (Provisional)

Mechanism of Action

Red maca's glucosinolates, particularly benzyl glucosinolate, inhibit 5α-reductase enzyme activity, reducing dihydrotestosterone (DHT) production and prostate enlargement. Macamides and macaenes modulate serotonin (5-HT) receptors in the central nervous system, enhancing mood and reducing depressive symptoms. The root's alkaloids also influence the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, supporting energy metabolism and stress adaptation.

Clinical Narrative (Provisional)

A 12-week randomized controlled trial with 197 men showed red maca reduced prostate size by 15% compared to placebo. Animal studies demonstrate significant mood improvements within 14 days of supplementation at 1.5g daily. Human trials on energy enhancement show modest improvements in self-reported fatigue scores, though sample sizes remain limited (n=50-100). Clinical evidence is strongest for prostate benefits, with emerging but preliminary data on mood effects.

Also Known As

Lepidium meyeniiRed Peruvian GinsengMaca ColoradaAndean RootPeruvian MacaRed LepidiumMaca Roja Peruana

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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.

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