Macamides

PhytochemicalFatty acid amideBest in the morning

What is it

Macamides are unique fatty acid amide compounds found in maca root (Lepidium meyenii). Along with macaenes (long-chain fatty acids), they are considered marker compounds for maca standardization.

Evidence for 2 uses

AI-assisted evidence assessment — talk to your doctor before relying on any single supplement.

Sexual function / libido

Limited Evidence

Several small trials of standardized maca show modest improvement in libido and sexual satisfaction in men and women. Macamides are implicated as active components but rarely tested in isolation.

Mood and energy

Limited Evidence

Limited evidence suggests modest mood and energy benefits with sustained use of standardized maca extracts.

How it works

Macamides are structurally similar to anandamide, an endogenous cannabinoid, and may modulate the endocannabinoid system by inhibiting fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH), the enzyme that breaks down anandamide. This may underlie some of the mood, energy, and libido effects attributed to maca. Macamides also show antioxidant and neuroprotective activity in laboratory studies. Most clinical maca research uses standardized extracts rather than isolated macamides.

Dosage

Maca extracts standardized for macamides typically deliver 0.1-1% macamides at 500-3000 mg/day total extract.

When and how to take it

Often taken in the morning for energy/libido support. Effects build over 4-12 weeks of consistent use.

1 commercial form

Compare the main delivery options and what they’re best suited for.

Maca extract standardized for macamides

Most studied form.

Lipid-soluble; absorbs with fat.

Safety

Maca standardized to macamides is generally well-tolerated. Mild GI upset is the most common side effect. Long-term safety data on macamide-enriched extracts are limited.

Who should be cautious

People with hormone-sensitive cancers should consult an oncologist before using concentrated maca. Pregnancy data are insufficient. Thyroid conditions warrant caution due to maca's goitrogenic potential at high doses.

Interactions

Maca's potential effects on hormones warrant caution with hormone-sensitive conditions and hormone therapy.

Food sources

Maca root powder

Amount
1-3 g
%DV
—

Frequently asked questions

Is macamide-standardized maca better?⌄

Standardization helps consistency, but clinical superiority over high-quality whole maca powder has not been definitively shown.

Do macamides act like cannabis?⌄

They may indirectly enhance the endocannabinoid system but do not bind cannabinoid receptors directly like THC.

References

Macamides on NIH DSLD (US supplement label database) — NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database link

Research on Macamides (PubMed search) — PubMed link

Track Macamides with Pilora

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Evidence-based·How we grade evidence

Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This page is educational, not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Evidence grades are AI-assisted assessments — talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement, especially if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, on medications, or managing a chronic condition.