Over the last number of years, the Mexican herb Maca has become one of the top-selling supplements on the market.

 

It improves energy and boosts stamina, helps with the symptoms of menopause and increases sex drive and fertility.

 

Maca (Lepidium meyenii), also called Peruvian Ginseng, is a relative of broccoli. Its roots are dried and powdered and it is available as health supplements in powders and capsule form.  

 

 

 

 

It is highly nutritious. 

 

It Contains:

 

28 grams of its root powder contains:

  • Calories: 91
  • Protein: 4 grams
  • Carbs: 20 grams
  • Fibre: 2 grams
  • Fat: 1 gram

 

 

It also contains

  • Vitamin C (133% RDA)
  • Copper (85% RDA)
  • Iron (23% RDA)
  • Potassium (16% RDA)
  • Vitamin B6 (15% RDA)
  • Manganese (10% RDA)

 

 

It is high in fibre and low in fat and contains two important compounds glucosinolates and polyphenols. 

 

Studies have shown that glucosinolates have several health benefits, including:

 

  • reducing inflammation 
  • decreasing stress
  • protectant antioxidant action and 
  • antimicrobial properties

 

 

—more research on glucosinolates as a health supplement is needed.

 

 

Red wine, dark chocolate, tea, and berries contain Polyphenols. Polyphenols are potent antioxidants and have a strong anti-inflammatory effect. They are of use in both prediabetes and type 2 diabetes as they lower blood sugars. Their antioxidant properties reduce heart disease and reduce the risk of blood clots. They aid digestion as they promote the good bacteria to flourish. They also boost memory and the ability to focus.

 

 

 

It Increases Libido & Fertility

 

 

Research has clearly established that Maca root increases libido in both men and women and is also helpful for vaginal dryness (common in the menopause and a side effect of certain medications).  

Other small trials have found that taking this natural remedy in either powder or capsule form increases sperm quality and male fertility.

 

 

 

Relieves Menopause Symptoms 

 

Several studies show that Maca root improves specific symptoms of menopause. In particular, it relieves mood swings, sleep problems, hot flushes, vaginal dryness, and irritability. These symptoms occur because of a decline in natural oestrogen in the body. Other trials have shown that it protects bone health in postmenopausal women. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Improve Your Mood

 

As it contains flavonoids, which improves mood, it reduces anxiety and lessens depression. It is beneficial for easing these symptoms in postmenopausal women.

 

Flavonoids are found naturally in fruit and vegetables such as blueberries, apples, cherries, oranges, plums, strawberries and spinach. The more colourful food is, the richer it will be in flavonoids. Oddly enough, in oranges, flavonoids are in the white pulp interior of the skin.

 

The benefits associated with eating a diet rich in fruit and vegetables is partly because they contain flavonoids. They have potent antioxidant, antibacterial, antiviral, and anti‐inflammatory benefits and this is why it is associated with being of use in preventing heart disease, arthritis & symptoms of menopause. They also protect the skin from ageing.

 

 

 

Boosts Energy

 

Bodybuilders use it to increase muscle. Its root powder is a popular supplement among bodybuilders and athletes.

 

It helps boost energy, increase strength, and improves your ability to exercise. Research is undecided as to whether it enables you to gain muscle mass. Overall, using a Maca supplement can be useful in people who participate in endurance events and high-intensity sports.

 

 

 

Applied topically, it Protects against UV rays.

 

UV radiation damages the skin. Concentrated Maca extract helps protect the skin from UV radiation. 

 

This benefit is due to the glucosinolates & polyphenol antioxidants in it.

 

A supplement of this medicine is not a substitute for using an SPF sun cream.

 

 

 

Improves Learning and Memory

 

It may improve your memory and brain function. It is a popular supplement for school children in Peru. Studies have shown this improvement also occurs in animals who have memory impairments. Black Maca is more effective than other forms of this herb for this health benefit.

 

 

 

Reduces Prostate Enlargement

 

Enlargement of the prostate gland (called benign prostatic hyperplasia) is common in ageing men. This enlarged prostate can lead to increased frequency and urgency in urination. All issues with larger prostate can cause various problems with passing urine, as it surrounds the tube through which you urinate. Studies show that Red Maca is particularly useful in reducing prostate size. This beneficial effect is linked to this herbs high amount of glucosinolates. 

 

 

 

 

How to Use 

 

Add Maca to your diet by either taking a supplement or putting maca powder into certain foods such as smoothies, baked goods etc. There is no formal defined optimum does, but typical daily doses are 1.5–5 grams per day.

 

 

 

 

Safety and Side Effects

 

While it is generally safe, some sources recommend that you should boil fresh Maca before taking it.

 

You should be careful with this herbal medicine if you have Thyroid conditions. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should seek medical advice before taking it.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Ann O’Flynn B.Pharm, MA, BSc, MPSI

 

Ann is the owner of dPharmacy and has a particular interest in Health foods and supplements. Ann is a Tutor pharmacist and has gained numerous qualifications in alternative therapies - which she uses alongside her extensive clinical training. If you have any queries on medicines or health foods, please reach out to us by email, text or phone.

 

 

 

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Please be aware that the information on our site is for information only. While we hope you find it helpful, it is not our intention for our articles to be used as a basis for diagnosis or treatment. If you suspect you may have a health issue or wish to start taking any medicine, please consult your pharmacist, doctor or contact us directly. You can get in touch with us by phone, email, online chat or text. We would be delighted to run through any concerns you may have. Our goal is to deliver health directly to you - pleasantly and effectively. However, dPharmacy will not accept responsibility for any side effects or health damages from the use of medicines offered on this site.