Lepidium meyenii, commonly referred to as maca root, is a radish-like root that is a member of the potato family. It grows in Peru where it has been consumed as food and used for medicinal purposes for centuries by the Inca people. The root can be harvested and dried for four to six days, and then made into a supplement. It has gained recent popularity in North America as a nutritional supplement for the treatment of a variety of disorders. Consult your doctor before taking maca or any other supplement.
Nutritional Benefits
Maca is high in protein, it contains amino acids and fatty acids, and it is a good source of a variety of nutrients. According to Phyllis Balch in her book "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," it contains phytochemicals such as saponin and tannins. It also contains calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, zinc and vitamins C, B1, B2 and B12.
Enhances Libido
Perhaps the most popular use for maca is for increased sexual performance and an enhanced libido. The Canadian School of Natural Nutrition, or CSNN, says that it is commonly referred to as "nature's Viagra" and it is thought to help both impotence and erectile dysfunction. The exact mechanism of action isn't known but it contains two substances known as macamides and macaenes, which are thought to be responsible for its sex boosting powers. It also seems to normalize steroid hormones such as testosterone, progesterone and estrogen and to prevent the decline in hormones that is often associated with aging. Due to its ability to regulate hormones, herbal-supplement-resource.com says it is also beneficial to all other reproductive and sexual disorders; it can increase fertility, reduce menopausal symptoms and correct menstrual issues.
Increases Energy
Maca is also popular as an energy tonic. It has been found helpful to symptoms of general fatigue; as well as for chronic fatigue syndrome, or CFS. Herbal-supplement-resource.com says maca produces a stable energy boost as opposed to the temporary energy lift and subsequent crash associated with many stimulants. It may also be beneficial to athletic performance due to its ability to enhance energy, mental clarity, stamina and endurance.
Additional Uses
The natives of the Andes have traditionally used maca to relieve stress and anxiety and to support and boost their immune systems. Herbal-supplement-resource.com says that natives also use it to treat endocrine disorders such as hypothyroidism, as well as to treat tuberculosis and stomach cancer. Balch says it is also helpful for the treatment of anemia because it is high in iron and B vitamins.
How to Take Maca
Unfortunately, large doses of maca are typically required in order to see the health benefits. CSNN reports that the more you take the more enhanced the medicinal effects are, and you would need to take up to 10 500-mg capsules of maca in order to obtain the same effect that is found in consuming maca whole, as a food. Taking maca root as a powder may make it easier to obtain the large doses required and a tbsp a day added to a blended drink, is the generally recommended daily dose. Studies have not found any toxic side effects from maca, however, despite its purported safety, more research needs to be done to confirm the efficacy of its alleged uses. As with any herb or supplement, you should talk to your doctor before supplementing with maca.
References
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis Balch; 2003
- "Pathology and Nutrition"; The Canadian School of Natural Nutrition; 2008
- Herbal-Supplement-Resource: Maca Root: Health Benefits and Side-effects
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