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Rainforest/Indigenous

Maca

Lepidium meyenii

Peruvian indigenous (Andean), Western adoption

Gabriel Score
76/ 100Good
EvidenceModerate - libido and fertility enhancement documented
Conditions7 applications
How it works

Adaptogenic, hormone balancing (not via phytoestrogens), neuroprotective, energy

Typical Dosage

1.5-3g powder or extract daily; gelatinized form more digestible

Used for
Libidofertilityenergyhormone balancemenopausemoodendurance

The Science

Active Compounds

Macaenes, macamides, glucosinolates, sterols, alkaloids

Evidence Base

Moderate - libido and fertility enhancement documented76/100

Root vegetable; "Peruvian ginseng"; different colors (red, black, yellow); safe as food; balances hormones

How to Use

Powder, capsule

Dosing should be individualized. Consult a qualified herbalist or healthcare practitioner.

Safety Profile

Interactions

May interact with hormone therapies; avoid in thyroid conditions (goitrogenic)

Contraindications

Pregnancy; breastfeeding; hormone-sensitive cancers; thyroid disorders

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TraditionRainforest/Indigenous
EvidenceModerate - libido and fertility enhancement documented
Applications7
Gabriel Score76/100

Educational purposes only. Consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting any herbal protocol.

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