It is currently unclear how maca works. However, its aphrodisiac effects do not appear to be mediated by altering levels of hormones usually involved in aphrodisia, such as testosterone, estrogen, and luteinizing hormone. Maca contains various chemicals, some of which are unique to this plant and some of which may have bioactive effects. These include alkaloids (imidazole, hydantoins and thiohydantoin), glucosinolates, and meyeniins.[1]