Maca

Maca

Latin Name: Lepidium meyenii
Family: Brassicaceae

Part used: Root
Energetics: Warm
Iris:
Interactions: Please check with your Healthcare Provider.

CONTRA-INDICATIONS

Hormone-sensitive cancer.

ACTIONS

  • Anti-viral
  • Antioxidant
  • Anti-inflammatory
  • Analgesic
  • Neuroprotective
  • Anti-depressant
  • Hormone-modulating and stimulating

Main Constituents

  • Glucosinolates
  • Benzylglucosinolate
  • Hydroxy
  • Methoxylated benzyl derivatives
  • Tryptophan-derived compounds, and depending on the phenotype (red, yellow, purple or black) may be associated with different biological effects.

Main Uses

Reproductive System: Male reproductive health
Energy and physical endurance
Endocrine System: Menopause
Musculo-Skeletal: Osteoporosis
Circulatory System: Anaemia
Mental and Emotional: Mild depression.

More About Maca

Maca is a plant native to the Andean highlands. Indigenous Peruvians referred to it as “fortifying food grown in the mountains”. Maca is also referred to as Peruvian ginseng.
Libido:
The ancient Peruvians used this herb to boost male and female libido. The maca root might also improve the quality, quantity and motility of male sperm.
Endurance:
Maca has been used to strengthen endurance and energy levels in athletes.
Menopause:
Maca might help to lessen the severity and frequency of hot flashes in menopause. Maca helps to bring back balance to a women’s hormones. Evidence shows that it can help with cognitive function by improving memory, even in post-menopausal women.
Menstruation:
Maca might help with cramping, heavy and irregular periods in those with PMS.
Depression:
Maca has the ability to improve mild depression. There has been an increase in serotonin levels in those that use maca.
Heart health:
Maca is high in potassium and can therefore help to lower systolic blood pressure levels.

    References

    - Gonzales GF, Cordova A, Gonzales C, Chung A, Vega K, Villena A. Lepidium meyenii (Maca) improved semen parameters in adult men. Asian J Androl 2001;3:301-3.
    - Muhammad I, Zhao J, Dunbar DC, Khan IA. Constituents of Lepidium meyenii ’maca’. Phytochemistry 2002;59:105-10.

    - https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/integrative-medicine/herbs/maca
    - https://www.herbwisdom.com/herb-maca.html
    - www.newrootsherbal.co.uk

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