Maca root, a medicinal plant grown in the Andes Mountains of Peru, has been used to stimulate energy, build stamina and boost endurance. Men and women have used the radish shaped root for centuries to balance hormones, regulate the thyroid and promote fertility. The Peruvian plant can have moderate side effects, usually stemming from incorrect dosage.
The Endocrine System
Maca root regulates the system by stimulating the pituitary glands and the hypothalamus. According to Dr. Viana Muller, president and co-founder of Whole World Botanicals, patients already on thyroid medications have felt symptoms of an overactive thyroid after consuming maca for two or three months. Reducing the maca dosage reduced the overactive thyroid symptoms. According to Maca Magic, a leading maca distributor, those who have had thyroid surgery tend to become nervous or jittery when taking maca root. Reducing the dosage has been found to diminish these particular symptoms. Supplementing maca root late in the day can create sleeplessness, so it is best to take it in the morning.
Hormonal Issues
Maca encourages the ovaries to produce needed hormones, stimulating ovulation. According to Peruvian expert Dr. Gloria Chacon, the alkaloids, not necessarily the plant hormones, are what produce the fertility effects of this hearty root. Cramping is a possible side effect with the wrong dose of maca, especially right before menstruation. Maca can also speed up the menstrual cycle if taken for long periods of time. Experiment with the dosage to obtain the results, and do not to consume it while nursing or pregnant.
Men and Maca
While maca root does wonders for menopausal women, it also can promise effective results for men during andropause, a man's version of menopause. Men tend to have a more gradual decline of hormones during the midlife years. It is common for them to lose sexual appetite and erectile dysfunction. Maca root can kick start sexual desire and is sometimes referred to as a natural Viagra. Once again, the dosage is crucial. If too much maca is taken, there can be a loss of sexual libido.
Medication Complication and Dosages
Little research has been conducted on the effects of maca root. It is always crucial to check with a physician or health practitioner when deciding to supplement a diet with maca root, especially if other medicine is being consumed. Keep in mind, every person is unique and has biochemical differences. Maca root dosages can vary with each individual.
References
- Whole World Botanicals
- Maca Root
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing, 3rd Edition", Balch, Phyllis, CNC, Balch, James, M.D.;2000
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