Ashwagandha and maca are two herbs that are often compared because of their similar adaptogenic effects.
However, there are also some vital differences between these plants that you should be aware of before choosing over the other.
In this article, we’ll dig into the differences between ashwagandha vs. maca as well as their similarities.
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Ashwagandha vs. Maca: Similarities & Differences Explained
When it comes to comparing ashwagandha vs. maca, there are many similarities and differences.
First off, ashwagandha and maca are both harvested for their roots and have a long history of traditional usage. Maca was used more as a food source while ashwagandha was used strictly as a medicinal herb.
Second, both ashwagandha and maca help to promote sexual health and physical performance.
The key difference between these two plants is that ashwagandha is a true adaptogenic herb that has the ability to regulate the body’s stress response.
Maca is more of a secondary adaptogen, which means it has the ability to support the body in many different ways, but it doesn’t quite mean the standard of being able to impact the HPA axis.
Also, both of these herbs have different ways of helping to improve sexual function and physical energy. Ashwagandha supports the body by helping to increase hormone production (primarily testosterone).
Maca helps to increase sexual function but does not have the ability to influence hormone production. It’s thought that maca’s mechanism of action is through its nutrient profile, which is rich in minerals.
| Maca Overview: | Ashwagandha Overview: | |
| Primary Benefit: | Maca is thought to increase libido and sexual drive | Ashwagandha may work to benefit and reduce mild anxiety |
| Secondary Benefit(s): | Maca may increase energy levels and athletic stamina | Ashwagandha may promote the production of testerosterone |
| Part of the Plant Used: | Root | Root |
| Dosage Range: | 1,500-3,000mg | 300-1,000mg |
| Form: | Extract, powder or capsule | Extract, powder or capsule |
| Side Effects: | Low likelihood of moodiness, stomach distress and cramping, and insomnia | Large doses may cause stomach upset, diarrhea, or vomiting |
| Recommended Products: | The Maca Team | Check Price | Gaia Herbs | Check Price |
Ashwagandha vs. Maca: Which is Right for You?
Think of ashwagandha as an anti-stress herb that helps to improve resilience within the body. It also has been shown to improve sleep quality as well as testosterone production.
With maca, its primary ability is to increase sexual desire and libido. It also has the ability to improve physical energy and endurance.
If you are stressed out and need support in your ability to adapt to stress, then ashwagandha root is the best herb for you to take. Its testosterone-building properties are a great secondary benefit.
If you feel physically sluggish and are looking to improve your libido, then maca might be right for you. It’s nutrient-rich and helps to restore your body’s function.
Can You Take Maca & Ashwagandha Together?
Yes, you can take maca and ashwagandha together.
These supplements do not have any known negative interactions when taken together.
Taking ashwagandha and maca together benefits the body by providing ashwagandha’s stress-fighting properties and maca’s energy-stimulating properties.
In fact, these herbs may be a good combination to help increase sleep quality and hormone production at night and stimulate energy and libido during the daytime.
It would be best to take maca in the morning or afternoon. Ashwagandha should be taken prior to bedtime to aid in sleep and recovery.
The Best Maca & Ashwagandha Supplements:
When it comes to supplementing with ashwagandha or maca, we have a handful of recommendations for the best herb suppliers.
For ashwagandha, we recommend Gaia Herb’s ashwagandha formula. Gaia Herbs is known for the quality and purity of their products.
For maca supplements, we recommend checking out the products by The Maca Team. They sell a variety of different types of maca.
This is a family-owned and operated business that works directly with growers in Peru. They have a morning-time Maca Coffee Blend, which makes it easy to add maca to your daily routine.
They have both a sweetened and an unsweetened formula, so feel free to find the blend that’s right for you.
You can click here for a complete guide of the best maca supplements and our top recommended ashwagandha supplements.
If you are looking for a combination ashwagandha and maca supplement, we haven’t come across a formula that meets our specs. At this time, it’s best to order separate supplements and then take them together.
| Recommended Maca | Recommended Ashwagandha |
|---|---|
 |  |
| The Maca Team | Gaia Herbs |
| •Non-GMO, Organic, and Fair Trade •Wide Selection of Maca Choices •Traditionally Grown in Peru | •Organic, Vegan, and Gluten-Free •Ecologically Harvested in Siberia •Concentrated Dosage |
| SHOP NOW ⮕ | SHOP NOW ⮕ |