Maca is a plant that grows in the Andes mountains and serves as a source for maca roots, also called Peruvian ginseng [1]. Maca root is the edible part of the maca plant that people in different communities have been using for centuries for fertility benefits.

An interesting thing about maca roots is that there are different types, each with unique characteristics. Each type offers different fertility benefits, but some can result in significantly better outcomes. This raises a question: What is the best maca root for fertility?

How Maca Root Supports Fertility

Maca root is an adaptogenic herb, meaning that its intake can help the body handle stress and improve hormonal imbalance efficiently [2]. Hormonal balance is important for fertility because they support regular menstrual cycles in women and increase sperm health in men.

A study published in the National Library of Medicine shows that maca can boost libido — sex drive — in both men and women [3]. Enhanced sex drive leads to more frequent intercourse and better chances of conception.

A 2023 study showed that taking 2 grams of maca per day for 12 weeks continuously improved sperm counts compared to placebo [4]. Higher sperm concentration means more sperm cells are available to reach the egg and fertilize it.

Types of Maca Root for Fertility

The three common types of maca root are red, yellow, and black maca roots. Each type has unique characteristics and can support fertility in different ways. Let's explore each type in detail:

1. Red Maca

Red maca is the best maca for fertility in female fertility supplements. It helps the body with hormonal balance and maintains a menstrual cycle. Hormonal balance also reduces symptoms of hormonal conditions like PCOS. Fertility experts often suggest red maca to the females facing fertility problems.

2. Black Maca

Black maca is commonly used in male fertility supplements. It can enhance the sperm production process and improve overall sperm health. A healthy sperm translates to increased chances of conception. It can also boost energy and endurance, further improving reproductive health.

3. Yellow Maca

Yellow maca is the most common type of maca root, and it is the most versatile form. It is used for both male and female fertility supplements for the effects of maca. If you are looking for a well-rounded option for improving hormone levels and fertility status, yellow maca is worth considering.

Choosing the Right Maca Root Supplement

If you are in the market to choose the best maca powder for fertility or improved sexual function, make sure that you know well about the strong and weak points of all types of maca roots. It will help you make an informed decision when choosing the type of supplement.

Another important point to consider is that you should buy from a reputable and trusted brand. We recommend you consult a healthcare provider before starting any supplement protocol, especially if you have certain fertility issues. The health expert can give you a suggestion about the dose and type of maca that best suits your needs. Combining maca root with essential nutrients like zinc, found in the best zinc supplement for men, can further enhance male fertility.

Conceive Plus Men's Fertility Support

Conceive Plus Men's Fertility Support is a male fertility supplement that can provide you maca root alongside other fertility vitamins. The other fertility vitamins it contains are vitamin A, vitamin E, folic acid, zinc, and magnesium, all known to improve male fertility health [5].

Conclusion

Maca root is a fertility ingredient that both males and females can take for a fertility boost. In females, it can help regulate hormone cycles and prevent infertility causing conditions like PCOS. In males, maca root can boost energy levels and improve sperm health.

With many different types of maca root options available, it can become confusing to determine which is the best maca root for fertility. Each type of maca root has unique fertility benefits. Your doctor can help in determining which type of maca root will suit you the best.

Resources Used

1. Gonzales G. F. (2012). Ethnobiology and Ethnopharmacology of Lepidium meyenii (Maca), a Plant from the Peruvian Highlands. Evidence-based complementary and alternative medicine : eCAM, 2012, 193496. https://doi.org/10.1155/2012/193496 
2. Liao, L. Y., He, Y. F., Li, L., Meng, H., Dong, Y. M., Yi, F., & Xiao, P. G. (2018). A preliminary review of studies on adaptogens: comparison of their bioactivity in TCM with that of ginseng-like herbs used worldwide. Chinese medicine, 13, 57. https://doi.org/10.1186/s13020-018-0214-9 
3. Dording, C. M., Fisher, L., Papakostas, G., Farabaugh, A., Sonawalla, S., Fava, M., & Mischoulon, D. (2008). A double-blind, randomized, pilot dose-finding study of maca root (L. meyenii) for the management of SSRI-induced sexual dysfunction. CNS neuroscience & therapeutics, 14(3), 182–191. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1755-5949.2008.00052.x 
4. Alcalde, A. M., & Rabasa, J. (2020). Does Lepidium meyenii (Maca) improve seminal quality?. Andrologia, 52(10), e13755. https://doi.org/10.1111/and.13755 
5. What Vitamins Should A Man Take When Trying To Conceive. Conceive Plus®. https://conceiveplus.com/blogs/blog/what-vitamins-should-a-man-take-when-trying-to-conceive