A Guide to the Best Maca Powder With Its Benefits and FAQs

Grown at thousands of feet above sea level on the ground of the Andes mountains, Lepidium meyenii is a radish or turnip-like plant, which is generally referred to as Maca. Best Maca powder comes from the root of this plant and we can consider it a powerhouse of nutrition.

In A Hurry? Here Are Our Top Recommendations
Zen Spirit Maca Root Powder Organic
Navitas Organics Maca Powder
Anthony’s Organic Maca Root Powder

This is a powerful vegetable supplement that has strong nutritional profile, including- calcium, vitamins, fiber, potassium, and iron. Maca root supplements also have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties because of the presence of bioactive compounds.

Maca root supplements have an array of impressive benefits, including boosting memory, energy, and reducing menstrual symptoms, as well as boosting fertility and increasing libido in both men and women. Based on their impressive benefits over fertility and sex drive, maca roots are also sometimes called Peruvian ginseng.

If you are here, we know you are ready to take advantage of the array of benefits of maca powder. But let us tell you that there are hundreds of maca supplements on the market.

Choosing the right one might be a tedious task if you are looking for the best maca supplement. But you do not need to worry. We have done extensive research and curated the best of the best maca powder supplements for you.

The Best Maca Powder: Our Top 3 Recommendations

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What Exactly Is Maca Powder?

Maca powder is derived from the roots of the maca plant, which is native to the high and cold Andes region of Peru. This herbaceous biennial plant belongs to the family of Brassicaceae, which includes vegetables like cabbage, broccoli, kale, mustard, and cauliflower.

Maca roots come in different varieties and colors, including red, yellow, black, and pink. Known for its nutritional benefits, maca has been used as a food supplement traditionally used by Peruvian natives. Mostly, the earthy or nutty flavor in Peruvian dishes is because of this maca powder.

Maca powder has high carbohydrate content, contains substantial bioactive herbal compounds, and is full of nutrients. It also increases fertility and libido in men and women.

The presence of bioactive compounds like glucosinolates helps with improving stress response, reducing inflammation, providing direct antimicrobial properties, and increasing body metabolism.

Further, the presence of micronutrients like polyphenols gives maca powder great antioxidant properties. This can help to reduce the risk of heart diseases, regulate digestion as well as aid in weight management.

The long list of maca powder’s incredible health benefits is a huge reason for the current upsurge in maca powder’s popularity amongst fitness enthusiasts.

Doing the research and buying maca powder that best suits your specific needs can be time-consuming. Thus, below we have enlisted eleven of the best products from Amazon to help you save time and make the right decision. 

Note that almost all the maca powder extracts provide the same advantages offered by maca-super roots. So we aren’t mentioning benefits offered by each product unless they are additional or specific to the product.

11 Best Maca Powder in the Market

Navitas Organics Maca Powder – 100% Maca Powder Extract

This organic maca powder is made by minimally processing the whole maca grown via traditional agricultural methods in the Peruvian Andes Mountains.

This is a premium quality product that is third party tested for quality and nutrition. This product is USDA organic, vegan, gluten-free, kosher, and non-GMO. You can add this powder to your smoothies, drinks, or baked goods to get the best of its health benefits.

Navitas Organics is a brand that takes pride in introducing maca to the North American continent as one of the first during its beginning in 2003. They assure to offer superior quality standards and 100% original product.

Their product comes in different packs of 1-pound, 4-ounce, 8-ounce and 32-ounce. Each pack contains a combination of red, black, and yellow for the best nutrient diversity.

Pros

• 100% original product
• USDA organic and non-GMO
• Vegan
• Gluten-free
• Kosher
• Maca sourced from the Peruvian Andes mountains
• Superior quality standards and practices
• Warming malty flavor
• Supports energy and vitality
• Supports stamina
• Balance stress levels

Healthworks Maca Powder Raw – Best to Aid Weight Loss

This product is premium quality raw maca powder that is sustainably grown and harvested in Peru.

Heathworks Maca powder is certified organic, keto-friendly, non-GMO, kosher, dairy-free, vegan, and free of any artificial ingredients or preservatives.

This raw maca powder is a premium antioxidant superfood that includes vitamins and minerals. It can provide you with natural energy and vitality. The brand sources raw maca from small organic farms in Peru, where it is grown and harvested sustainably.

The product is never heated above 115F so that the end product that reaches you is in its purest and most nutrient-rich form.

What’s impressive is that the Healthworks brand provides a 30-day money-back guarantee on all their products if the customer isn’t satisfied with the product.

This unsweetened maca powder contains fiber, protein, calcium, vitamins, iron, fatty acids, potassium, copper, and manganese. You can add this powder to a variety of goods, such as cereals, smoothies, oatmeal, snack foods, granola bars, yogurt, desserts, and baked goods to reap the benefits.

Pros

• Grown and harvested on small farms in Peru
• Nutrient-dense
• Vegan-friendly
• 100% raw and organic
• Non-GMO
• Boosts energy
• Aids weight loss

Anthony’s Organic Maca Root Powder – Affordable Gelatinized Maca Supplement

This is a gelatinized maca root powder, which is said to be more easily digested and absorbed than non-gelatinized products.

Anthony’s organic maca powder is gluten-free. You can add this to a variety of recipes with the given malted taste, which resembles oats and butterscotch.

It is an organic and non-GMO product that is rich in vitamins and nutrients. It is a great adaptogen that you can add to your daily diet.

Pros

• Energizing
• Non-GMO
• Enhanced bioavailability
• Gluten-free
• USDA certified organic gelatinized maca powder
• Easier to digest and absorbed by body
• Free of any artificial ingredients and preservatives

Zen Spirit Maca Root Powder Organic – Best to Balance Hormone Levels

Zen Spirit maca root powder is organically grown and harvested from the most exclusive organic farms in Junin, Peru, at around 2700-4300 meters above sea level.

This maca root powder includes vitamins, essential amino acids, and antioxidants.

This maca root powder is a premium grade, USDA organic certified natural supplement good for improving stamina, memory, immune system, blood circulation, and athletic endurance.

Maca powder supplements can also help you decrease stress levels and improve hormone balance. High levels of calcium, magnesium, iron, zinc, and vitamins B, C, and E can help you feel energized all day long.

This brand also offers a 100% money back guarantee. If the product does not satisfy the customers, they can get their money back.

Pros

• Gluten-free
• Non-irradiated and chemical-free
• USDA Organic
• Vegan-friendly
• Rich source of various nutrients
• Can reduce oxidative stress and neutralize free radicals
• Can help reduce premature aging
• Boosts energy, memory, stamina, and vitality
• Money back guarantee

Viva Naturals Organic Maca Powder – The Best Variety Gelatinized Maca Root Supplement

This is a gelatinized, USDA certified organic yellow maca powder. Yellow maca root powder is said to be superior to black and red maca root powder.

Unlike non-gelatinized products, gelatinized maca powder is said to be easier to digest and absorb. It is because of the breakdown of hard-to-digest starch by the application of low heat to raw maca roots during gelatinization.

For those who have weak digestion or experience an upset stomach due to the consumption of raw maca root powder, gelatinized products like this are a great alternative. This product is heated using traditional native Peruvian methods so that you can get an authentic and pure maca root powder.

This maca powder comes in an earthy or butterscotch flavor. You can easily blend it with any everyday food recipe.

Pros

• Easy to digest
• Certified organic and non-GMO
• Gluten-free
• Vegan
• Kosher
• Free from additives
• Paleo certified
• Nutrient dense
• Regulates the body’s hormonal balance
• Support reproductive health and stamina

Natgrown Organic Maca Root Powder Capsules – Best for Supporting Peak Performance

This is the product for all those who aren’t fans of powdered supplements and instead prefer to take them in the form of capsules. 

Natgrown organic maca root supplement is a mix of black, red, and yellow maca root. These maca root pills offer 1,500 mg of maca root powder per serving, which is about 3x more maca in comparison to other products. This product is made in the USA using organic maca root harvested in Peru.

These maca root pills are gelatinized, meaning they go through a process that uses heat and water to make them easier to digest by the body. Formulated to high standards, these pills are also free from soy, tree nuts, wheat, gluten, and milk.

These pills are great for boosting energy, balancing hormonal levels and supporting peak performance. The bottle contains 120 capsules, which is equal to 60 servings.

Pros

• Gluten-free
• Organic
• Gelatinized for easier digestion
• Free of soy, milk, wheat, peanuts, or tree nuts
• Brand gives a complete refund if product does not satisfy you

Happy Andes Organic Black Raw Maca Powder – Best for Increasing Libido and Stamina

Just as the name suggests, this maca powder is harvested straight from the mountains of the Andes, Peru. This ensures its authentic freshness and flavor.

This powder contains only black maca root extract, which is the best maca root for libido. It helps in improving stamina and vitality in men. 

Being rich in potassium, phosphorus, calcium, carbohydrates, potassium, fiber, and magnesium, maca root powder works on the overall wellbeing and balance of the body.

The brand vouches for their superior quality as all of their ingredients are single-source, not shipped around the world. They provide fresh and high-quality products that are sourced from their community in Peru.

You can add this maca root powder to your diet and enjoy unlimited health benefits. The benefits include boosting energy levels, increasing muscle mass, improving mood, increasing libido, and enhancing reproductive health.

The best part is, Happy Andes brands work for an incredible cause of supporting studies of preschool kids from Andes. This means that a part of your purchase goes to non-profit Happy Little Faces (their non-profit preschool). This makes the little faces of the Peruvian community happy and secures their future.

Pros

• Gluten-free
• High in minerals
• Boosts stamina and vitality
• Vegan
• USDA organic and non-GMO
• Free of additives, artificial chemicals, or coloring

NutraChamps Organic Maca Powder – Best Gelatinized Blend of Three Different Types of Maca Root 

This product is a gelatinized blend of blank, yellow, and red maca roots that comes in an easy to use and resealable jar.

Naturally grown in Peru, this powder combines the health benefits of three different sorts of maca roots.

This multi-color maca root powder blend is further gelatinized to turn it into a supplement that your body can digest and absorb without much hard work.

A single serving of this gelatinized supplement is equal to 5g of black, yellow, and red maca root extract. This is 4 times the amount you get from 2 capsules (1000mg = 1g) in a day.

You can add this complex to any food, such as hot beverages, muffins, cookies, smoothies, yogurt, and sauces. It helps to increase energy, stamina, and vitality.

With every purchase you make, the NutraChamps brand offers support to mothers or children in need through their non-profit partner, Vitamin Angels.

Pros

• Vegan
• Organic and non-GMO
• Gluten-free
• No added sugar
• Multicolor root complex blend
• Boost energy and vitality
• Supports immune system
• Improves focus and mood

Pure Natural Miracles Organic Maca Powder – Great to Restore Energy and Hormonal Balance

This powder is made of a dried blend of black, yellow, and red maca roots. It is great for balancing hormones in both men and women.

This premium grade Peruvian raw maca root powder is also a great energizer. You can consume it pre and post gym workout routine. This sodium and salt free herbal energizer improves strength, stamina, performance, and endurance.

Pure Nature Miracles’ maca powder features a blend of 20% black, 25% red/pink and 55% yellow maca root extracts. This mixture is a rich blend of calcium, potassium, magnesium, iron, sulfur, and phosphorus. It also contains minerals such as selenium, manganese, silicon, iodine, zinc, silicon, and bismuth.

This product is USDA certified organic (100% wild crafted raw maca), vegan and is free of any impurities. You can add this maca root powder to any recipe, such as smoothies, coffee, ice cream, juice, oatmeal, golden milk, or any of your favorite baked goods.

Pros

• USDA certified organic
• Non-GMO
• GMP certified
• Vegan
• Free of pesticides and impurities
• Nutrient-dense malty supplement
• Restore hormone imbalance
• Boost energy and mood
• Improves strength and endurance

Toniiq Ultra Concentrated Maca Root – Offers the Power of 20 Capsules in 1

This is a highly concentrated dietary supplement with 20x potency as each capsule offers 500 mg of maca root powder.

This capsulated supplement is a blend of red, yellow, and black maca powder. It ensures a 20:1 extract ratio (equivalent to 10,000mg of raw maca powder).

The product is made in the USA in an NSF-approved and GMP-certified manufacturing facility to ensure the highest quality standards. Furthermore, the brand uses the most modern patented extraction methods to ensure the highest purity standards.

Each batch is tested by the brand and third-party both to completely eradicate any possibility of contamination and impurities.

Toniiq Ultra’s maca root capsules are gelatinized, ultra-concentrated and highly bioavailable.

Pros

• USDA certified organic
• GMO-free
• 20x concentrated extract
• 20:1 extract ratio
• One capsule is equivalent to twenty raw maca powder capsules
• Gelatinized (easily digestible)
• Highly purified
• Produced in a GMP-certified and NSF-approved manufacturing facility in the USA
• Free of contaminants, impurities, and additives

Nutricost Organic Maca Root Powder – Pure, Simple, and Cost-Effective Maca Root Supplement

This 1-pound organic maca powder bottle offers a total of 454 servings. Each serving is equivalent to 1 gram of maca root extract.

Nutricost Organic’s maca supplement is unflavored and is free of gluten, soy, or any preservatives.

This product is manufactured in an FDA registered and GMP compliant facility. It is of high quality and nutrient-dense.

Pros

• USDA organic
• Non-GMO
• Gluten and soy free
• Vegetarian
• Produce in a GMP-compliant facility
• Free of artificial sweeteners or flavors
• Preservatives-free

Different Types of Maca Powder

If you have gone through the aforementioned enlisted products, then you know by now that there are two types of maca powder- Raw and Gelatinized.

Let’s further discuss in detail to understand what these two types are and what’s the difference between them.

Raw Maca Powder

The product that is sourced directly from maca roots to be further dried, dehydrated, and grounded into powder form is raw maca powder. It means that raw maca products are uncooked, i.e., never heated above 100F/40C. This makes these products rich in nutrients, in addition to starches and sugar.

Though this raw powder contains essential nutrients such as vitamins and enzymes intact and at peak levels, they are also hard to digest. We advise those with bowel issues and sensitive stomachs to avoid consuming raw maca roots.

Gelatinized Maca Powder

Quite the opposite of raw maca, gelatinized maca products are those which are cooked on low heat to remove all of the starch. Though the starch is removed, the boiling process also destroys vitamin C content and enzymes.

Gelatinized maca powder is more concentrated since the starch content is removed, making it easier to digest. Thus, this is the best form of maca for those who have a sensitive stomach. Gelatinized maca powder is also more bioavailable, which means it has an active effect on the body.

It is important to note here that gelatinization is the process of cooking maca. It doesn’t mean that the product contains any form of gelatin. Also, the cooking process doesn’t destroy major nutrients, they are in fact left intact and effective. 

Different Colors of Maca Powder

There are three common types of maca roots based on color- Yellow, Black, and Red. The uncommon form of maca root is the pink one, which is very rare. The color of the maca root product also has a lot to do with the color of the maca root used as the main ingredient. 

All these commonly known maca roots contain minerals and essential vitamins. These different maca root powders can be effective in building up a healthy defense in different parts of the body. This means each type of maca root comes with its own unique set of properties and health benefits.

Yellow Maca Powder

Yellow is the most common and frequently used type of maca. Interestingly, yellow maca makes up to 60%-70% of the total maca harvest.

The most common health benefits associated with this maca are- increasing body energy and enhancing memory and focus. It also reduces stress-induced inflammation and enhances metabolic function. You can consume yellow maca to prevent health problems and maintain balance.

Red Maca Powder

Red maca is the second most common type of maca root, making up to 20-25% of the harvest. Products made of or containing red maca are good for promoting fertility and balancing hormone levels. It also strengthens and regulates female reproductive organs and prostate function in men.

Red maca is also good for improving conditions such as osteoporosis, hypoxia, chronic inflammation, anxiety, circulatory issues, and adrenal fatigue. You can find it effective as it can strengthen bones and prevent post-menopausal bone loss. Red maca benefits also include improving libido and fertility in both men and women.

Black Maca Powder

This is the least common amongst the three colors of maca, making up approx. 10-15% of the harvest. Black maca is often said to be great for building muscle mass and boosting endurance. This makes it ideal for fitness enthusiasts and athletes.

You can also use Black maca to improve conditions such as depression, fatigue, and brain-fog. Furthermore, it regenerates brain function, enhances memory, mental focus, and improves physical performance. This is also great for increasing libido and sperm count in men.

Maca Powder Benefits

Maca root supplement is also called Inca food supplement as the Inca warriors used to consume it before going to battle to boost strength and endurance. Thus, maca root supplements make for great energizers, good for athletes, gym and sports enthusiasts even today. For example, this study shows that rats given maca could swim longer.

The research-based proof on the health benefits of maca is limited because the studies conducted on this Peruvian superfood are limited.

The majority of evidence either comes from small studies, often conducted on animals, or customer assessments. These studies and customer reviews set a solid foundation for maca root products as promising natural health supplements like mushroom supplements.

Maca roots contain bioactive compounds, anti-inflammatory properties, and antioxidants. Also, you cannot sideline the maca’s high nutritional content, its impact on fertility, vitality, and brain function. Thus, maca root supplements can prove to be great in regulating digestion, reducing the risk of heart diseases, and aiding in weight management.

For Fertility

Maca is also known as ‘Peruvian ginseng’ and has been used by the natives for thousands of years to boost fertility and libido. The Inca population has used maca roots as a natural aphrodisiac or viagra since forever. Consumption of maca not only enhances stamina and libido in males but also balances female hormones.

This research found that maca can increase semen quantity and quality in men, which is a vital factor in fertility.

Another study reported that maca increased semen volume, motile sperm count, and sperm count per ejaculation in participants.

For Energy Levels and Athletic Performance

It is also said that the Inca warriors consumed maca to increase strength and endurance before going to the battles back in time.

Today, athletes, bodybuilders, and fitness enthusiasts often use maca roots to boost energy levels and improve performance. Maca helps to boost energy, and muscle mass, increasing overall performance. In particular, black maca is reported to have great benefits for improving athletic performance.

Maca is also a great energizer for providing an energy boost without the crashes and jitters of caffeine in coffee and other energy drinks.

For Hormone Balance and Menopause Symptoms

There are several symptoms associated with menopause in women, such as mood swings, sleep issues, and hot flashes. Maca is a natural superfood which is said to relieve or even eliminate these unpleasant menopause symptoms.

A variety of amino acids, which are the building blocks of hormones, make maca root a great supplement for balancing hormone levels in both women and men. This can lead to relieved menopause symptoms in older women as well as relief from menstrual problems in younger women.

For Reducing Depression, Stress, and Anxiety

When consumed regularly, maca is observed to elevate the mood and reduce stress and anxiety. The credit goes to maca’s great hormone balancing properties and rich nutritional content. Maca roots also contain unique nutrients called macamides, which have neuroprotective, anti-fatigue, anti-osteoporosis, and neuro-modulatory effects.

This means consumption of maca root supplements can help with reducing depression and dealing with stress and anxiety.

For Mental Clarity and To Enhance Memory

Red or black maca roots are shown to support mental clarity and an increased ability to focus. Natives of Peru have been giving maca to even children to improve their cognitive function for thousands of years.

Black maca is especially effective in improving learning capacity, memory, and brain function.

Recommended Maca Dosage

The common amount of maca taken by most people in a day is between 1.5 and 5 grams. Maca is generally recommended to be taken during breakfast as it acts as an energizer and boosts energy levels. But there isn’t any set rule for the same. You can take maca extract pretty much at any time of the day or at night to improve performance in bed.

Furthermore, it is recommended to go for the amount and time described on the pack of the maca root supplement you consume. Also, it makes sense to consult a medical professional if you are suffering from any medical condition before committing to a particular dose.

Warnings and Risks

Though maca root supplement is generally considered safe, we would say, it isn’t for everyone out there. If you have a sensitive stomach, you should always consider buying a gelatinized version of the supplement.

Maca root supplements sometimes contain traces of lead. Thus, if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, you should also consider consulting your healthcare provider before adding maca to your routine.

Most Commonly Asked Questions About Maca Root Supplements

Which Brand’s Maca Powder is Best?

We have enlisted a few of the best maca root powders in this blog based on quality, production, safety, and customer satisfaction. If you still want us to name one as the best, then we would suggest Zen Spirit maca root powder. It is based on an impressive number of its customer ratings and reviews on Amazon.

This is premium quality raw maca powder, harvested in Junin, Peru at around 2700-4300 meters above sea level. It is a great product to improve energy, mood, and vitality. You can add it to any meal or dish of your choice.

Which Maca is the Strongest?

There are three types of maca roots (yellow, black, and red). All types have their own unique set of qualities and health benefits. Generally, there isn’t one maca that can be considered stronger than the other. But they can be considered the strongest in terms of their properties and impact on any part or function of the body.

For example- Black maca is considered the strongest in terms of promoting energy, strength, and sperm count in men. Red maca, on the other hand, can be considered the strongest in improving hormonal balance and increasing fertility in women.

What Color Maca is Best?

This is clearly subjected to one’s health needs. Depending upon your special body needs, one or the other color of maca can be considered the best.

For example- Black maca is the best for those looking to improve athletic performance or gain muscle mass. On the contrary, for those looking to increase libido, strength, and fertility, red maca is the best. Similarly, yellow maca is the best for those looking to boost energy, memory, and focus.

Which Maca is Best Red or Black?

Maca is an amazing source of minerals and nutrients, irrespective of its color. However, there are a few specific functions or health benefits associated with different colors of maca roots.

Red maca is the best maca root for fertility and balancing feminine or internal eternal energy. It is ideal for strengthening the female reproductive system, increasing female libido, strengthening bones, and improving female fertility.

Black maca is best for balancing masculine or external energy. It is ideal for improving physical performance, mental focus, and male reproductive organs. Benefits of black maca also include an increase in sperm production and function, and male libido.

Does Maca Powder Contain Lead?

Yes, traces of lead and other minerals can be found in maca powders, which are available as a nutritional supplement on the market.

Mostly, a warning label is provided on the packaging of any such product. Therefore, consumers, such as pregnant women and nursing moms are advised to consult their physician before consuming maca powder supplements.

Is Maca Powder a Stimulant?

Yes, maca powder can be considered a natural stimulant because it acts like a stimulant. However, it doesn’t contain any actual stimulants like coffee or other such products.

After consuming maca, an increase in energy can be reported by the consumer. This is due to the property of maca powder to stabilize blood glucose levels. Maca powder can be used as a natural stimulant. It is a great alternative to caffeinated drinks like coffee without the jitter.

What Are the Traditional Uses of Maca?

Maca’s use as a food supplement dates back thousands of years (including the Inca empire) amongst the indigenous people of the Andes of Peru. Traditionally, maca powder is believed to be used by Peruvian people for enhancing libido, strength, energy, fertility, and endurance.

Then natives of Peru used to consume maca roots in a lot of ways such as mixing with milk, baking, dried or cooking with a variety of other dishes.

Conclusion

All in all, maca root is an incredibly effective and beneficial superfood to be added to our daily routines. It can be used to enhance physical performance and boost energy levels and stamina by fitness enthusiasts. They can take maca root as a pre or post gym workout routine supplement and achieve great results.

On the contrary, those dealing with sexual issues and infertility can take advantage of maca root’s incredibly promising benefits for enhancing libido and fertility in both men and women.

Moreover, yellow maca root supplements can be consumed to enhance mental functioning and boost memory and focus in both adults and children.

Maca root, when consumed regularly, is also effective in not only treating but also preventing many health conditions. There are many products in the market, featuring one, two, or a blend of all three types of maca roots to choose from. Subject to your body’s needs, you can choose black, red, or yellow maca root powder supplements to get the best results.

In today’s hectic world, they are a holistic approach towards a life where you can make the most of your time by being energized and stress-free. If you too are ready to take advantage of this Peruvian superfood, then why delay?

In this blog, we have already mentioned eleven of the best maca root supplements for you. Choose the best maca supplement for yourself and take your first step towards a healthy and wholesome lifestyle!