Maca root, also called Peruvian ginseng, maino and ayak chichira, is a radish-like vegetable that has long been used for medicinal and culinary purposes. Many health food stores carry whole maca roots or powdered maca root supplements. Check with your medical care provider before consuming maca root to treat specific health problems.
Characteristics
The maca plant, or Lepidium meyenii, belongs to the mustard plant family, called Brassicaceae. These plants naturally grow in the icy, high-altitude regions of the Andes mountains in Peru. Mature plants feature numerous green leaves that spread to form low-lying mats. Maca plants also feature extensive root systems, called hypocotyls, that come in various colors, including purple, red, yellow, black and cream. Manufacturers harvest these roots to use as health supplements.
History
According to Drugs.com, Peruvian cultures have cultivated maca plants for about 2,000 years. Andean people have long valued maca root for its high nutritional content and its stimulating properties. In Incan cultures, only the privileged people were allowed to consume these roots. Medical practitioners traditionally used maca root to treat a variety of health ailments, including tuberculosis, fatigue, menstrual problems and anemia.
Benefits
Botanical.com reports that maca roots contain high levels of several minerals, including iron, potassium, zinc, calcium and magnesium. Drugs.com adds that the maca root is a rich source of saccharides and phenolic compounds, both of which have antioxidant properties. Maca roots also contain glucosinolates and isothiocyanates, which might work as an aphrodisiac. The University of Maryland Medical Center explains that the maca root also contains yohimbe, a substance that might help treat erectile dysfunction, though further study is needed.
Medicinal Uses
Drugs.com explains that the glucosinolates and isothiocyanates found in maca root might contain anti-cancer properties. Animal testing indicates that maca root's aphrodisiac properties seem to help enhance sexual performance and increase fertility levels. However, more human studies need to be performed. The Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center explains that maca root might help improve the stamina of patients undergoing cancer treatments. According to Drugs.com, consuming maca root supplements might help alleviate depression and improve your memory skills.
Cautions
Drugs.com warns you not to consume maca root if you suffer from thyroid problems. Combining maca roots with a low-iodine diet might cause goiter. Maca root seems to have a low potential for toxicity, even with long-term use. However, pregnant and nursing women should not take any maca root supplements.
Member Comments