Maca (Lepidium meyenii) is a root that grows in the high mountains of Peru. The plant grows between 13,000 and 14,500 feet above the sea level on the high Andean plateaus of Peru. The Peruvians have used it as a food for centuries, both for its nutritional value and its medicinal properties. The dried roots can be stored for up to seven years.
Maca Benefits
The maca root is known for its adaptogenic properties. Studies have shown that one of the Maca benefits is that the plant can work to balance hormones by directly working with the body’s endocrine system. Maca contains four types of alkaloids, which are indirectly through hormone system responsible for the proper utilization of phosphorus and calcium in the blood. Also maca root is used as a tonic to enhance strength and endurance and as an aphrodisiac to increase male potency and to improve hormonal functions.
Adaptogen
Maca root is known as an adaptogen due to its ability to resist environmental stressors and strengthens the pituitary and adrenal systems. Adaptogens are substances that raise the physical body’s state of resistance to diseases through physiological health and emotional health improvements. Maca also helps the body to produce serotonin, a substance which induces good mood and digestion. People who have taken Maca for a long time have attested to the fact that they have experienced a dramatic decrease in the effects of stress in their body.
Libido Enhancement
Maca root has been shown to increase male libido and sperm production in studies. Study data showed that maca increased sexual desire by 180 % and increased sperm count by 200%. Research has proven that it acts on certain areas of the body that produce hormones and energizing substances, which enhance libido and increase virility. The clinical study carried out by Gonzales from Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia demonstrates an 85% increase in the men’s total sperm count, as well as an increase in sperm motility and motile sperms quantity in men treated with maca. Research has demonstrated that maca root contains a chemical called p-methoxybenzyl isothiocyanate, which has reputed aphrodisiac properties. The hexanic extract of maca appears to be more effective at improving sexual performance in rats than methanolic and chloroformic extracts.
Hormone Regulator
By regulating the endocrine system, maca promotes overall health. The endocrine system consists of glands that produce hormones necessary for essential body functions. Always our body’s reaction and response is based on hormones and depends on hormonal imbalances. This system affects sexuality, growth, strength and energy. Maca stimulates the pituitary gland, acting as a kind of tonic for the hormone system.
Maca Dosage
The recommended dosage is 1500 to 3000 mg/day. maca root in capsules has been tested in doses of 500 to 1,000 mg taken three times for male infertility. Choose gelatinized maca for greater potency and optimal absorption. Buy maca from reliable manufacturers only and beware of fake products.
Maca Side Effects
Maca is a food, not a drug and is generally considered to be safe for everyone.In toxicity studies conducted by many laboratories, Maca root showed absolutely no toxicity and no adverse pharmacological effects.One of the side effects of maca can be nausea and stomach upset.The stimulant properties may make it difficult to sleep.If you have a disorder in which your thyroid gland produces too much or too little thyroid hormone, don’t take Maca root extract without first talking with your physician. When you are using it medicinally, avoid taking maca continuously for more than three months.
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