Macamide (as benzylhexadecanamide) dosage

Macamides are fatty acid amides specific to the root of maca (Lepidium meyenii), a plant native to the Andes known for its adaptogenic, energizing, and neuroprotective effects. Among them, benzylhexadecanamide is considered a key chemical marker for authenticating and standardizing maca extracts used in nutraceutical products.

Therefore, the dosage of macamides is essential to guarantee the quality, efficacy and conformity of raw materials and formulations containing maca, particularly in food supplements and herbal products.

Principle and operation of the method

The analysis relies on high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) or ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography (UPLC) , often coupled with mass spectrometry (LC-MS) .
After selective extraction of lipophilic compounds from the maca powder or extract, the macamides are separated according to their polarity and then detected by either:

• by HPLC-DAD , for a classic quantitative assay based on absorbance,
• or by LC-MS/MS , allowing specific identification at trace levels thanks to the ion transitions characteristic of macamides.

This approach guarantees excellent sensitivity and selectivity , even in complex matrices (capsules, powders, hydroalcoholic extracts).

Analytical performance and related analyses

The LC-MS method allows for the simultaneous quantification of several macamides (benzylhexadecanamide, linoleamide, linolenamide, etc.) and provides a profile representative of the chemical signature of maca .

For a complete characterization or enhanced authenticity check, this analysis can be combined with other services from the YesWeLab catalog, such as:

• the determination of total alkaloids,
• flavonoid dosage
• the purity assay ,
• or the dosage of piperine, often used to improve the bioavailability of bioactive compounds.

These additional analyses make it possible to validate the overall phytochemical composition of the plant extracts and to ensure their compliance with the quality standards of the nutraceutical market.

Applications and areas of use

Macamide testing is primarily used in the following sectors:

• Nutraceuticals : standardization of maca extracts in energizing, toning or hormonal wellness formulations.
• Phytotherapy and R&D : verification of composition and content of active compounds in efficacy or formulation studies.
• Quality control : identification of fraud or plant substitutions through the detection of characteristic maca markers.

This analysis is an essential tool for ensuring the traceability and scientific valorization of maca-based products.

The advantages of the YesWeLab service

YesWeLab works with a network of ISO 17025 and COFRAC accredited laboratories specializing in the chromatographic analysis of natural bioactive compounds. Each sample is directed to the most competent laboratory based on the matrix, method, and required sensitivity level.

Thanks to its digital platform , YesWeLab simplifies the management of analyses: quote requests, sample submissions, online tracking, and rapid results delivery.
Since 2020, numerous nutraceutical and standardized plant extract have entrusted us with their analyses to guarantee the quality and compliance of their products.

For any specific request relating to macamide dosage, contact our scientific team to obtain a personalized quote and technical advice tailored to your needs.