Traditionally in Peru maca root is consumed before, during and after pregnancy to improve fertility, libido, energy, mood, and immunity in both men and women. Maca is a rich source of folate, iron, calcium, & phosphorus, and other essential vitamins and minerals such as B1, B2, B12, Vitamin C, and zinc to support the body during pregnancy. Other maca powder benefits include alleviating morning sickness, improving resilience to stress, regulating and balancing hormones, and improving mood and mental health.
For men in particular, maca has been shown to increase libido, semen volume, sperm counts, and enhance sperm motility without influencing levels of testosterone or any other sex hormones. Numerous animal studies show that maca extracts can improve fertility, relieve the negative effects of stress reactions, and reduce enlarged prostates.