Maca with ginseng dietary supplements are purported to help people with low sex drive, low energy and to improve mental focus and clarity.
Both maca and ginseng are known for their energy-boosting and prosexual effects. Using these supplements together may have synergistic benefits
Maca is believed to be an aphrodisiac, boosting libido in both men and women. It has been shown in some studies to support fertility, brain health, bone health and more. However, it is not as well-researched as Ginseng extract.
In traditional Chinese medicine, Panax ginseng (Asian ginseng) is considered an adaptogen. It has been used for more than 2000 years as a general elixir for immunity, cognition, hormone balance and much more.



- Boosts energy & mental focus
- Supports immune system & restores balance
- Improves mood, sleep quality & endurance
What is Maca?
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Maca is the common name for a biennial herbaceous plant called Lepidum meyenii which grows in central Peru.
It is a member of the crucifer botanical family; along with other members like broccoli and cauliflower. Its taproot and hypocotyl have been long used as food and medicine.
Incan cultures used maca root as a natural remedy for low energy levels and for sexual dysfunction. It has also been studied for its ability to improve sperm quality and quantity in men with low sperm counts.
Some studies have shown it can improve menopause symptoms in women and reduce PMS pain. Maca is also being researched for its effects on leukemia, osteoporosis, depression and AIDS.
Clinical Research for Maca
Preliminary research suggests that 1.5 grams maca daily over 12 weeks can reduce female sexual dysfunction symptoms, especially when induced by excessive use of antidepressant medications.
Research shows that routine use of maca over 4 months can improve multiple symptoms associated with male infertility.
Doses between 1.5 and 3 grams daily seems to improve infertility markers including sperm count, volume of semen and sperm motility. All subjects monitored in clinical trials to date have been between the ages of 22 and 44 years.
Other studies indicate its benefits for postmenopausal symptoms. 3.3-gram doses daily for 6 weeks seemed to modestly improve depression, mood, certain somatic symptoms and anxiety.
Early research also suggests that maca is useful for increasing sexual desire (libido). Healthy men between 21 and 57 years of age were given daily maca doses between 1.5 and 3 grams. After 12 weeks, treated men reported strengthened sex drive and increased energy levels.
The Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database (NMCD) states that maca is also used for anemia, fatigue, stomach cancer, tuberculosis and osteoporosis.
What is Panax Ginseng?
Panax ginseng is commonly called Asian ginseng. This plant’s roots are harvested and dried for use as medicines. They have been used for many centuries in China and certain other eastern cultures.
Panax ginseng is considered an adaptogen in many countries. Adaptogens are used to prevent aging and increase resistance to stress. They are believed to improve overall health and immunity.
Clinical Research for Panax Ginseng
Multiple studies show that Panax ginseng may improve cognitive function in patients with Alzheimer’s disease. Daily doses between 4.5 and 9 grams over 12 weeks have improved cognitive performance markers in people diagnosed with Alzheimer’s.
Some research has shown that Asian ginseng improves cognitive functioning in healthy middle-aged adults. Improvements have been noted in reaction times, abstract thinking, mental arithmetic and attention span. Notably, these effects were not repeated in young adult subjects.
Asian ginseng may also be useful for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). A meta-analysis of human trials evaluated P. ginseng for use in stable COPD patients.
Asian ginseng significantly improves pulmonary function test scores, and quality of life within 3 to 6 months relative to controls. In some trials, P. ginseng has improved COPD symptoms by more than 50%.
Maca with ginseng supplements are commonly used by men with ED (erectile dysfunction). In daily doses between 1400 and 2700 mg, Asian ginseng has improved ED symptoms in multiple human trials.
A certain P. ginseng cream called SS Cream helps to prevent premature ejaculation when applied topically to the glans, and then washed off, before sex.
Other research has shown Asian ginseng to be helpful for increasing sexual arousal, fighting influenza and reversing fatigue related to MS (multiple sclerosis).
Safety of Maca and Ginseng Supplements
Asian ginseng and maca are normally safe for use in most healthy adults. However, both of these supplements may interact adversely with various diseases, drugs, herbs and other dietary supplements.
There are various maca with ginseng supplements available commercially. Different products contain different ingredients, and in different amounts. There are no standardized formulations of these supplements and there are no standardized dosages.
Pay close attention to the manufacturer’s recommended dosing on the label of the product you may choose.
Maca and ginseng supplements are not recommended for use in children, pregnant women or nursing women. Not enough research has been completed to determine usage safety in these groups.
Maca with Ginseng Side Effects
Many users experience stimulatory side effects associated with maca and ginseng supplements.
The most common side effects associated with Panax ginseng include insomnia, mastalgia (tender breasts), heart palpitations and increased libido. Currently, NMCD reports no adverse effects associated with proper oral dosages of maca extracts.
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Article last updated on: March 12th, 2018 by Nootriment