Some reports have shown that maca may increase blood pressure in those with metabolic syndrome. Maca root is sold in powder, capsule, tablet, and extract forms. These properties of maca have been shown to potentially increase performance time amongst professional cyclists and soccer players. Maca supplementation is widely used among athletes because it may support stamina and athletic performance. Among the participants, 90% showed an increase in energy after 12 weeks (23). However, these results are independent of any changes in testosterone and estrogen levels. Pre-workout timing (30 to 60 minutes before training) is popular for men using maca for performance, as its stamina-supporting effects may be most relevant during exercise. A separate postmenopausal women's study (which applies pharmacologically to men's mood management) demonstrated maca reduced psychological symptom scores via effects on serotonin and dopamine precursors. Its energy benefits come from improved cellular energy metabolism through iron (for oxygen transport), B vitamins (for ATP production), and unique macamide compounds that modulate energy utilization at the cellular level. This complete guide covers every benefit, the science behind each claim, dosage, and how to get the most from maca root as a man in 2026. From a set of clinical tests conducted on laboratory rats, we have data showing that Maca increased the level of testosterone in the Leydig cells (hormone producing cells in the testes). So we have a lot of reviews of data that are only available to other research institutions, and then one publicly available study showing that Maca improves sexual health. The positive test was a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial that showed an increase in sexual performance and function–based on self-reported data. I’ll only touch on a few articles, because they are representative of the whole field, and in the main the research into sexual function and health of men, especially aging men, supports the idea that Maca can help with arousal and dysfunction. ✲ There is no hard data, however, that Maca has any influence, direct or indirect, on testosterone levels or production in men. In this short article, I’ll explore whether Maca Root (Lepidium meyenii) actually increases testosterone, and where some of the confusion about its effects may have come from. For example, some advocates claim that maca can improve energy levels, reduce stress, and even enhance cognitive function. Studies suggest that taking a small dose of maca can increase feelings of well-being and energy in both men and women, and can reduce stress. Another study published in the journal Fertility and Sterility in 2008 found that men who took maca supplements for four months had increased semen volume and improved sperm motility. Fatigue, lower libido, and even depression are all common side effects of low testosterone. As men get older, their testosterone levels naturally decline, which can lead to a host of uncomfortable symptoms. To put it simply, while Maca does offer several health benefits, its role as a direct testosterone booster remains ambiguous. Dissolve a pea-sized amount in warm water or tea for an energizing daily ritual. Consistent daily use produces better cumulative results than sporadic dosing. Maca does not contain caffeine but its energizing effects can be noticeable — some men prefer to avoid taking it after 3pm to prevent any interference with sleep, though this is less common than with stimulant supplements. Clinical trials have used doses ranging from 1,500mg to 3,500mg daily. Unlike caffeine or synthetic pre-workouts, maca does not stimulate the central nervous system or spike adrenaline. This receptor is strikingly similar to AR–but it does not lead to testosterone production. Now, in this study, despite their stated aim of AR research, scientists instead tested for something called the glucocorticoid response element, or GRE. When the body wants to perform a function, cells trigger one another with enzymes, proteins, minerals, hormones, or electrical impulses. The aim of the study was to see if Maca had something called Androgen Receptor compatibility. Further, we have a study of human men wherein several preparations of Maca were tested.
