Lepidium (Latin name: Lepidium meyenii, with other names in Spanish and maca-maca, maino, ayak chichira and ayak willku in Kichwa ) is a herbaceous biennial or annual plant (in some sources it is referred to as perennial) that grows at high altitudes in the Andes of Peru. It is cultivated for its fleshy grafting, which is used as a medicinal plant.

Small-scale clinical trials in men have shown that lepidium extract can increase libido and improve sperm quality. However, more extensive studies are needed to confirm these preliminary results. In particular, research is needed on people with sexual dysfunction and infertility. None of the studies done so far reveal any effect of the lepidium on sex hormone levels. No toxicity was reported.

Traditionally, lepidium has been used to enhance fertility in humans and animals, increase libido, increase energy and endurance and for other medical purposes.

The beneficial effects of lepidium on sexual function may be due to the high concentration of proteins and vital nutrients. Researchers have identified two more components, macamides, a type of secondary metabolite and macaenes, which are believed to play an important role.

For the above properties, the lepidium has begun to spread both in the US and in Europe.