Peruvian maca root is considered an aphrodisiac. It is traditionally used in medical practice by the Quechua Indians (South America)
Maca is primarily used to increase decreased libido (including "frigidity" and menopause in women) and erectile dysfunction in men (reduced potency).
Additionally, maca is used as a mild general tonic, and in this aspect its effects are somewhat similar to ginseng.
Overview
Peruvian maca (or Peruvian ginseng, Lepidium meyenii ) is a plant of the cabbage family that grows in the highlands of Peru, Bolivia, and Argentina. The root maca, which looks like a turnip, is used by local Indians not only for medicinal purposes, but also as a food product. Despite this, the effects of maca on the body have been little studied by modern medicine.
The main active ingredient in maca is the alkaloid macaridine , which is found only in this plant.
Effects on the body
1. Increased libido. Maca has long been used as an aphrodisiac for both men and women. This product is not hormonal, despite the fact that Peruvian maca is able to normalize hormone levels.
Increased libido is cumulative and occurs after a certain amount of regular use, so maca-based preparations are used in courses.
2. Eliminating mild erectile dysfunction . This aspect of maca has been clinically studied and maca root extract has been found to significantly improve the condition of patients.
3. Anxiety and depression : Several studies have found that maca can reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression.
4. Tonic properties . Maca has been shown to increase physical endurance in athletes. In the past, Quechua warriors would eat maca before battle.
5. May Lower Blood Pressure It’s possible that maca root may also help improve blood pressure. A 2015 study also found that 3.3 grams of maca per day for 12 weeks reduced blood pressure in postmenopausal Chinese women.6. May reduce sun damage
Other properties often attributed to Peruvian maca (protective against cancer, anti-aging, increased fertility, improved cognitive properties) have not yet been confirmed.
Contraindications and side effects
Pregnancy, lactation, age under 18 years, as well as hormone-sensitive diseases.
Consumption
Maca is taken in courses lasting 1-2 months, taking 500-1500 mg per day. This herb combines well with almost any other preparation.
Important information
- The information provided here is for informational purposes only. It is not a recommendation for the use of dietary supplements and is not an advertisement for such supplements.
- Remember: dietary supplements cannot be used to treat diseases, they are not an alternative to medications, and even less so to doctors' prescriptions.
- Taking supplements without your doctor's approval can harm your health, especially if you have medical conditions.
