Maca root (scientifically known as *Lepidium meyenii*) is a herbaceous perennial plant native to the high Andes mountains of Peru. It has been cultivated and used for thousands of years by indigenous populations for its nutritional and medicinal properties. Traditionally, maca was consumed both as a food staple and for its reported health benefits, including enhanced energy, stamina, and fertility. The edible part of the plant is its hypocotyl, which resembles a radish or turnip, and it is most commonly available as a powder derived from dried maca root.
Maca is rich in carbohydrates, protein, dietary fiber, and various micronutrients such as vitamin C, copper, iron, potassium, vitamin B6, and manganese. It also contains unique bioactive compounds, including macamides, macaenes, glucosinolates, and alkaloids, which are believed to contribute to its recognized physiological effects. Maca is generally recognized as a supplement, frequently used to support hormonal balance, increase libido, and improve energy levels without affecting hormone levels in a direct way in clinical studies. It is typically consumed orally, often mixed into beverages, smoothies, or foods. (MedlinePlus, PubChem)
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Known interactions
Category rule: glp1 × supplement
Note
GLP-1 medications slow stomach emptying, changing how/when oral supplements absorb; rapid weight loss raises the importance of protein and micronutrients.
Time oral supplements when nausea is lowest; prioritize protein and micronutrients; discuss with your provider.
Category rule: supplement × medication
Note
Some supplements change how the body processes medications (absorption, liver enzymes, or additive effects).
Specific pairs are checked against a licensed drug database and shown with their own severity. Always confirm with your provider or pharmacist.
Frequently asked
Sources referenced
["NIH Office of Dietary Supplements (ODS)", "MedlinePlus (National Library of Medicine)", "PubChem (National Center for Biotechnology Information)", "Mayo Clinic", "Cochrane Library", "DrugBank"]
Stackwise compiles summaries from publicly available scientific and regulatory references. Always verify important decisions with a licensed clinician.
Related compounds
Others in the supplement category or studied for the same goals.