Maca C

«Maca» — evidence level C. Dosage: The dose is not stated in the study. In commerce and in other studies, 1.5–3 g/day of root powder is found, but there is no confirmed dose for sports performance. Source: PMID 19781622, permanent link to the source in the list below.

The root of Lepidium meyenii. Effects on energy metabolism and hormonal status are discussed, but the data are few and contradictory: in the only study in athletes, the cycling test result did not differ from placebo.

Dried root powder (yellow, black, red maca) or a standardized extract. There are no data on differences between the types.

• In a pilot study, maca improved the 40-km cycling result relative to baseline, but not relative to placebo
• The same study noted an increase in self-rated sexual desire compared with placebo

• The sample was extremely small (8 athletes), and there was no long-term follow-up
• There was no performance gain versus placebo, that is, it is explained by training, not by the supplement
• There are no data on effects on strength, body composition or recovery
• Non-standardized products differ in composition

• There are no data on drug interactions

• Under 18 years: Not recommended: there are no safety data.
• Pregnancy and lactation: Not recommended: there are no safety data for pregnancy and lactation.
• thyroid disease
• history of hormone-dependent tumors
• use of hormonal drugs

• A pilot investigation into the effect of maca supplementation on physical activity and sexual desire in sportsmen · Stone M, Ibarra A, Roller M · Journal of ethnopharmacology, 2009 · PMID 19781622

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