J Ethnopharmacol. 2009 Dec 10;126(3):574-6. doi: 10.1016/j.jep.2009.09.012. Epub 2009 Sep 23.
A pilot investigation into the effect of maca supplementation on physical activity and sexual desire in sportsmen.
- 1
- School of Psychology and Sports Sciences, Northumbria University, Newcastle upon Tyne NE1 8ST, UK. mark2.stone@unn.ac.uk
Abstract
AIMS OF THE STUDY:
Maca
(Lepidium meyenii Walp) is consumed both as a sports supplement by
strength and endurance athletes, and as a natural stimulant to enhance sexual drive. However, whether or not the postulated benefits of maca consumption are of scientific merit is not yet known. The aim of the study was therefore to investigate the effect of 14 days maca supplementation on endurance performance and sexual desire in trained male cyclists.
MATERIALS AND METHODS:
Eight participants each completed a 40 km cycling time trial before and after 14 days supplementation with both maca extract (ME) and placebo, in a randomised cross-over design. Subjects also completed a sexual desire inventory during each visit.
RESULTS:
ME
administration significantly improved 40 km cycling time performance
compared to the baseline test (P=0.01), but not compared to the placebo
trial after supplementation (P>0.05). ME administration significantly improved the self-rated sexual desire score compared to the baseline test (P=0.01), and compared to the placebo trial after supplementation (P=0.03).
CONCLUSIONS:
14 days ME supplementation improved 40 km cycling time trial performance and sexual desire
in trained male cyclists. These promising results encourage long-term
clinical studies involving more volunteers, to further evaluate the
efficacy of ME in athletes and normal individuals and also to explore
its possible mechanisms of action.