Evidence supporting the use of: Maca
For the body system: Testes

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Maca (Lepidium meyenii) is a root vegetable native to the Andes and has a long history of traditional use for enhancing fertility and vitality. In recent years, scientific interest has grown regarding its effects on male reproductive health, including support for the testes. Several animal studies have shown that maca supplementation can increase sperm count and motility, and may have a positive impact on spermatogenesis. Some small human clinical trials have reported that maca can improve semen quality and sexual desire in men, though these studies often have limitations such as small sample sizes and short durations.

The proposed mechanisms include maca's potential to modulate hormone levels (without significantly affecting testosterone or other major reproductive hormones), as well as its antioxidant properties, which may protect testicular tissue from oxidative stress. However, systematic reviews and meta-analyses have concluded that while there is some evidence supporting maca’s beneficial effects on semen parameters, the overall quality of evidence is low and larger, well-designed studies are needed to confirm these effects.

In summary, while traditional use and preliminary scientific research suggest maca may support testicular function and male fertility, the evidence is not yet robust. Thus, maca's use for supporting the testes is justified primarily by a combination of tradition and some emerging but limited scientific evidence.

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