Maca root is a nutritionally rich plant native to certain mountainous areas of Peru. Traditionally used as food, maca has been linked to a variety of health benefits including improved stamina, enhanced fertility and increased sexual performance. Maca is also an adaptogen herb, making it potentially beneficial for individuals who experience symptoms of adrenal imbalance.
Definition
Maca root has become popularized in the West as a superfood that contains high amounts of vitamins, minerals, enzymes and essential amino acids. According to studies cited by the Medical News Today website, maca has been shown to balance a number of the body’s key hormones, making it an all-natural alternative to certain hormone therapies.
Adrenal Imbalance and Fatigue
When faced with a stressful experience, the adrenal glands release a number of stress hormones such as adrenaline and cortisol. As a result, your heart rate, respiratory system and blood pressure all increase to accommodate your body’s need for energy during a fight-or-flight situation. According to the Women to Women website, repeated activation of these stress hormones can lead to a condition called adrenal imbalance. Symptoms of prolonged adrenal imbalance can include fatigue, drowsiness, irritability and headaches.
Maca and the Adrenal Glands
Maca root contains adaptogen properties that may be effective in regulating hormonal imbalances. By stimulating and nourishing the pituitary and hypothalamus glands, maca root increases the body’s ability to regulate other hormone centers such as the adrenal, thyroid, ovarian, testicular and pancreas glands. The Drug Information Online website recommends taking maca root in doses of 450 milligrams three times a day. When taken in moderate doses, maca root may offer an effective remedy for adrenal imbalance by nourishing many of the body’s hormone centers simultaneously. Talk to your doctor before taking maca root.
Safety Concerns
While generally considered safe, maca may cause side effects if you are taking certain medicines. Talk to your doctor before adding a daily dosage of maca root to your diet, and always limit your intake to the dosage recommended on your product label. Maca root enhances fertility in both men and women, and should be taken with care in women or couples who want to avoid pregnancy.
References
- Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center; Maca; May 26, 2011
- Women to Women; Adrenal Health in Women; Marcelle Pick
- Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center; Maca; August 2011
- Medical News Today; Femmenessence (Maca-GO) Balances Hormonal Fluctuation For Menopause Sufferers With All-Natural Alternative To HRT; Jan. 16, 2008
- Drug Information Online: Maca
- Natural News; Benefits of Maca Root: Find More Energy and Hormonal Balance; Kim Evans; Dec. 24, 2009
