Which Maca Root is Best? A Quick Guide for Top Choices

ListedFit is reader-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn a small commission.

If you’re curious about maca root and wondering which type is the best for you this article is the best thing for you!

Maca is amazing and it’s something I wish I had found sooner! But many people looking to try it for the first time can get stuck on which form they should buy.

Different types of maca root are available, each with its unique characteristics and benefits.

These types mainly come from different coloured maca roots black, red and yellow, which may cater to your specific lifestyle, age, activity level, and health goals.

Knowing the variations and their properties will help you make a more informed decision about which maca root is the best fit for you.

In this article, we’ll look at the different types of maca roots and their benefits to help you determine which one suits you best.

As you read on, you’ll gain insights into the properties of each maca type, enabling you to make the best choice for your needs and preferences. So, let’s dive in and learn more about this fascinating and potentially beneficial root.

What Are the Different Types of Maca Root? An Overview

Maca root, a popular superfood originating from the Andes in South America, is available in three main colours: Red Maca, Black Maca, and Yellow Maca. Each variety has its own unique nutritional profile and set of benefits. Let’s dive a bit deeper to learn about each type.

Red Maca

You’ll find that Red Maca is the sweetest tasting of the three maca varieties. It’s more of a choice for women’s health. A point worth noting is that red maca is higher in amino acids and antioxidants.

Black Maca

Black Maca was the first maca that I ever tried. It is the rarest of all maca types, and it’s particularly beneficial for men’s health (a large reason why I chose to try it first).

Black maca does look slightly darker and in my opinion, it has a little bit more of a bitter and earthy taste than the other two forms of maca do.

If you’re looking to boost your libido, fertility, and overall vitality, this is a good choice.

Black Maca also aids in muscle building, endurance, and mental focus, giving you the added kick you might need for physical activities and mental tasks alike.

Yellow Maca

This is the most common and often cheapest variety, Yellow Maca, contains the highest concentration of macamides, unique compounds responsible for many of maca’s health benefits.

It does have adaptogenic properties as the other forms do, so don’t assume that because it is the cheapest and most common it is somehow not worthy of consideration.

While yellow maca might not be as targeted towards women’s or men’s health as the other varieties are, it still gives you numerous benefits as you’ll see below.

The Health Benefits Of Each Type of Maca Root

Benefits of Red Maca

Red maca is known for its powerful antioxidant properties, which can help your body combat oxidative stress and promote overall well-being. Some research suggests that red maca may have additional benefits, including:

• Supporting female hormonal balance and reducing symptoms of menopause
• Improving bone health, particularly in women
• Boosting mood and reducing anxiety

Be sure to include red maca in your diet to take advantage of its wide-ranging benefits and higher antioxidant content compared to other varieties.

Benefits of Black Maca

If you’re looking for a natural way to improve your mental and physical performance, black maca may be the answer. Among its reported benefits, black maca stands out for:

• Enhancing memory, learning and cognitive function
• Boosting male fertility and libido
• Improving athletic performance by increasing energy levels and stamina

You can incorporate black maca into smoothies, oatmeal, or other recipes you like to enjoy its brain and muscle-boosting effects.

Benefits of Yellow Maca

Yellow maca is the most widely available and researched variety of maca root, and it also offers various health benefits. Some noteworthy advantages of consuming yellow maca include:

• Increasing overall energy levels and fighting fatigue
• Supporting hormonal balance in both men and women
• Strengthening the immune system

With yellow maca, you’re bound to experience a difference in your everyday well-being due to its adaptogenic properties. Just remember to consume it in moderation and follow the recommended dosage.

Which Maca Root Is Best for You?

When selecting the best maca root, it’s important to consider your health goals and needs. Different maca roots have unique benefits, making certain types more suitable for specific purposes.

Quality and Authenticity

Seek out high-quality and genuine maca supplements by looking for trusted products with good reviews.

If possible, look for products that have actually gone through third-party testing for purity and potency.

It can be hard to find but it’s worth keeping an eye out for.

Check the product label for clear indications of the maca root’s origin, as authentic products typically come from the Andes region.

Personal Preference and Taste

As there are various types of maca root, it’s essential to consider your personal taste preferences when choosing a supplement.

Experiment with different forms of maca, such as powder, capsules, or even liquid forms.

Stay open to trying both raw and gelatinised maca so you can discover what suits your tastes best.

Conclusion: Personalising Your Maca Root Choice

Choosing the right maca root for you really depends on your individual needs and health goals. Let’s have a look at the different maca root types and how they can benefit you:

• Black Maca Root: It’s brilliant for men’s libido, fertility, and muscle building. If you’re looking to enhance your mental focus, give black maca root a try.
• Red Maca Root: This sweet-tasting maca is great for women’s health. It helps with hormone balance, bone density, and is suitable for those dealing with menopause, acne, fertility, or thyroid issues.

To select the best maca root powder, consider your age, activity level, and lifestyle. For instance, if you’re a man over 40, red maca root may be ideal for prostate protection. On the other hand, if you’re a woman or child, red maca can be beneficial for improving bone density.

When it comes to quality, make sure to research and choose a reputable brand to ensure you’re getting a high-quality product. As with any supplement, it’s always wise to consult with a healthcare professional before adding maca root to your routine, especially if you have pre-existing medical conditions.

Remember, personalising your maca root choice can make all the difference in helping you achieve your health goals, so take your time to find the one that best suits your needs. Good luck, and happy maca hunting!

Frequently Asked Questions