Maca herb (Lepidium meyenii) is a root-like vegetable shaped like a radish that grows high in the harsh climate of the Andes Mountains in South America at elevations up to 15,000 feet. It is one of the few plants that can be cultivated in the harsh climate of the Andes. For more than two millennia, native Peruvians have used maca root as food and medicine, to promote endurance and improve energy, vitality, sexual virility and fertility. If you have an interest in increasing energy, an excellent supplement is MultiVit Rx which works better than maca alone.
What the research
says
Feeding maca root extracts to normal male mice increases the frequency
with which they couple with female mice. Human studies with this herb indicate
supplementation leads to enhanced sexual desire and may be helpful in women
after menopause. This herb can also partially reverse sexual dysfunction that
often occurs with the use of SSRI type antidepressants, such as Proxa, Paxil,
and Zoloft. See below for a detailed review of such studies.
How does it work?
Maca root contains sterols, uridine, malic acid, macamides, and glucosinolates. Oil
components include phenyl acetonitrile and benzaldehyde. Many of the compounds in maca
have an effect on the central nervous system. The mechanism of action of maca is presently
not well understood, but probably seems to be independent of a hormonal effect since studies show maca does not influence blood levels of hormones, for instance testosterone.
This plant has alkaloids, steroids, tannins, saponins, and
cardiotonic glycosides.
Passion
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Dr. Sahelian and his research staff have tested various doses and extracts of
dozens of herbs from a number or raw material suppliers to determine
the ideal dosage and combination for optimal aphrodisiac properties with the fewest side
effects. After years of trial and error, a proprietary blend with a
dozen
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Passion Rx supports and enhances:
In recent years science has made breakthroughs in the understanding of sexual dysfunction. But, for hundreds of years, civilizations around the world have known about locally grown herbs that achieve wonderful results with far fewer side effects than prescription drugs. The potent nutrients and herbal extracts in Passion Rx include Acetylcarnitine, Ashwagandha, Catuaba, Cnidium, Herba Cistanches, Damiana,
Horny-Goat-Weed extract, Maca root extract, Muira puama, Passion flower, Rehmannia, Suma herb, Tongkat-Ali supplement, Tribulus and Yohimbe. A version of Passion Rx without yohimbe is also available.Erectile dysfunction
This study shows that maca root supplements provide a slight improvement
in men with impotence.
Subjective effects of Lepidium
meyenii (Maca) extract on well-being and sexual performances in patients
with mild erectile dysfunction: a randomised, double-blind clinical
trial.
Andrologia. 2009 Apr; Zenico T, Cicero AF, Valmorri L, Mercuriali M,
Bercovich E. Department of Urology, Morgagni-Pierantoni Hospital, Forlė,
Italy.
We carried out a double-blind clinical trial on 50 Caucasian
men affected by mild erectile dysfunction (ED), randomised to treatment
with maca dry extract, 2400 mg, or placebo. After 12 weeks patients taking
maca experienced a more
significant increase in sexual satisfaction than those taking placebo. Our data support a small but significant effect of
maca
supplementation on subjective perception of general and sexual
well-being in adult patients with mild ED.
Maca reverses SSRI induced sexual
dysfunction
I am often concerned using an herbal aphrodisiac along with prescription
medications, but this study did not seem to indicate any untoward interactions.
A double-blind, randomized, pilot dose-finding study of maca root for the
management of SSRI induced sexual dysfunction.
CNS Neurosci Ther. 2008 Fall; Dording Christina M, Fisher L, Papakostas G,
Farabaugh A, Sonawalla S, Fava M, Mischoulon D. Depression Clinical and Research
Program, Department of Psychiatry, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA
02114, USA.
We sought to determine whether maca, a Peruvian plant, is effective for
selective-serotonin reuptake inhibitor SSRI-induced sexual dysfunction. We
conducted a double-blind, randomized, parallel group dose-finding pilot study
comparing a low-dose (1.5 g/day) to a high-dose (3 g/day) maca regimen in 20
remitted depressed outpatients with SSRI-induced sexual dysfunction. The Arizona
Sexual Experience Scale and the Massachusetts General Hospital Sexual Function
Questionnaire were used to measure sexual dysfunction. Patients on 3.0 g/day
maca had a significant sexual improvement but subjects on 1.5 g/day maca did
not. Maca was well tolerated. Maca root may alleviate SSRI-induced sexual
dysfunction, and there may be a dose-related effect. Maca may also have a
beneficial effect on libido.
I was not sure if the subjects were still on the SSRI
medication when they were started on the maca supplement, so I emailed Dr.
Christina Dording, MD in March 2009 and she was kind enough to reply,
"Thank you for your email. Subjects stayed on their SSRI dose for the duration
of the study." Best, Christina Dording, MD
Additional studies - maca benefit
Feeding maca herb to rats prevented high altitude disruption in sperm formation.
Additional research indicates feeding this herbal root to rats decreases the size of their
prostate gland which perhaps is a benefit to men with prostate enlargement. I am
not sure if maca root has a similar effect in humans. Maca herb could help women
during menopause.
A human study with confirms the rodent findings. Researchers at the Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, in Lima, Peru, performed a 12-week double blind, placebo-controlled, randomized trial in which active treatment with different doses of maca was compared with placebo. Men aged 21-56 years received 3 g of maca. An improvement in sexual desire was observed with maca at 8 weeks of treatment. Serum testosterone and estradiol levels were not different in men treated with maca than in those treated with placebo.
Another study was designed to determine the benefit of a 4-month oral treatment with tablets of maca on seminal analysis in adult normal men aged 24-44 years old. Nine men received tablets of maca (1500 or 3000 mg/day) for 4 months. Serum luteinizing hormone, follicle stimulating hormone, prolactin, testosterone and estradiol levels were measured before and after treatment. Treatment with maca resulted in increased seminal volume, sperm count per ejaculation, and sperm motility. Serum hormone levels were not altered.
Maca side
effects
Maca root has few side effects. High doses could lead to insomnia but as a
rule maca root is quite safe as long as reasonable amounts are consumed.
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Maca and fertility, semen volume
Maca has been traditionally used to enhance fertility, and there is some
scientific evidence that it may be helpful for testicular health and semen
quality and volume.
Lepidium meyenii improved semen parameters in adult men.
Asian J Androl. 2001 Dec;3(4):301-3.
The present study was designed to determine the effect of a 4-month oral
treatment with tablets of Lepidium meyenii ( Maca ) on seminal analysis in nine
adult normal men aged 24-44 years old. Nine men received tablets of maca (1500 or 3000 mg/day) for 4 months. Seminal analysis was performed
according to guidelines of the World Health Organization (WHO). Serum
luteinizing hormone, follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), prolactin (PRL),
testosterone and estradiol were measured before and after treatment. Treatment with Maca resulted in increased seminal volume, sperm count
per ejaculum, motile sperm count, and sperm motility. Serum hormone levels were
not modified with Maca treatment. Increase of sperm count was not related to
dose of Maca. Maca improved sperm production and sperm motility by
mechanisms not related to luteinizing hormone, FSH, PRL, testosterone and
estradiol.
Effect of Lepidium meyenii roots on spermatogenesis of male rats.
Asian J Androl. 2001 Sep;3(3):231-3.
To determine the effect of oral administration of an aqueous extract
from the roots of maca on spermatogenesis in adult male rats. Male rats received
an extract of maca root twice a day for 14 consecutive days. Treatment
resulted in an increase in the weights of testis and epididymis but not the
seminal vesicle weight.
What is in
maca herb?
There are a number of substances in maca root, including
phenyl acetonitrile, macaenes, macaridine, and macamides, which are benzylated
alkamides.
Composition of the essential oil of Lepidium meyenii (Walp).
Phytochemistry. 2002 Sep;61(2):149-55.
The essential oil profile of maca herb (Lepidium meyenii) obtained from Lima,
Peru, was examined. Phenyl acetonitrile (85%), benzaldehyde (3%), and
3-methoxyphenylacetonitrile (2%) were the major components of the steam
distilled oil.
Maca menopause study
I have had a few questions from women asking if maca herb was of benefit in
menopause. I have come
across few specific human studies regarding the role of maca
herb in the treatment of hot flashes or other symptoms of menopause. here is one
good maca menopause study.
Beneficial effects of Lepidium meyenii (Maca) on
psychological symptoms and measures of sexual dysfunction in postmenopausal women are not related
to estrogen or androgen content.
Menopause. 2008 Sep 6.
Fourteen postmenopausal women completed a
randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover trial. They
received 3.5 grams a day of powered maca for 6 weeks and matching placebo
for 6 weeks, in either order, over a total of 12 weeks. No differences
were seen in serum concentrations of estradiol, follicle-stimulating
hormone, luteinizing hormone, and sex hormone-binding globulin between
baseline, maca treatment, and placebo.
Preliminary findings show that maca reduces
psychological symptoms, including anxiety and depression, and lowers
measures of sexual dysfunction in postmenopausal women independent of
estrogenic and androgenic activity.
Is maca helpful in menopause?
Some studies have show maca to be helpful in menopause. The
proper use of this dietary supplement can reduce anxiety,
improve mood and enhance sexual function in some users.
Q. I recently visited your web site and checked out
information on maca. I've been taking maca 500 mg capsules for more than one year
to ward off discomfort due to menopause. With regard to maca, herb your web site
asked that someone respond to you regarding the use of maca for menopause
symptoms. I originally began taking two 500-mg capsules for about one month and
then cut back to just one daily after breakfast. I felt more energized (in fact
initially I really felt quite energized), but wasn't sure that maca was helping
to relieve the hot flashes. I was pretty sure it was, however, helping to
alleviate the anxiety. My gynecologist was unable to provide any information to
me with regard to maca and menopause, except for the usual hormonal treatments.
Because I have been affected with high blood pressure as a result of the use of
even mild birth control, and because strokes and high blood pressure is in my
genetic make-up, I have opted to use maca herb (with hopefully none of these
side effects). After taking maca 500 mg once daily for about a year, I
thought to stop taking maca for 30 days to see just how much it was helping my
menopausal symptoms. I realized the hot flashes became more severe and the
anxiety seemed to be more prominent too. I'm not sure how long I'll continue
taking maca supplement once a day, maybe another year or until the menopausal
symptoms diminish (or I become more accustom to the flare-ups). But, I'm certain
(following the 30-day trial) that maca seems to be limiting the miserable hot
flashes and anxiety flare-ups for me. To give you a bit of my personal
background, I am 51 years old. My periods (that were very miserable for 36 years
and I experienced preeclampsia with my one child) stopped two years ago. I have
had an ultra-sound to confirm that my ovaries have shrunk. I'm curious how long
menopausal symptoms continue for the average woman, but I believe I have a
better handle on it now thanks to maca. I hope this helps with your research and
that you're able to find additional testimonies like mine in a way to help the
growing number of 50-something women. I'm disturbed by the use of synthetic
treatments and wish more research would be devoted to herbal applications.
A. This anecdote regarding maca and menopause is quite interesting.
Thank you for letting us know.
Q. I noticed on your site that you ask anyone who has
experience with maca and menopause to write. I am a 53 year old woman going
through menopause. At this point I am a month away from 12 months with no
period. Last month I started taking maca because my libido was very low. I had
no idea of its effects on menopausal symptoms. When I started taking it, my
libido rose immediately. However, I also noticed my hot flashes where almost
gone and I could sleep throughout the night. At this point I have not taken any
pills for approximately 2 days. My hot flashes are still almost nil. I may have
1 a day. My experience leads me to a question. I have stopped taking them
because I seemed to start gaining weight and my breast nipples are tender. Would
the maca make me gain weight and cause tenderness to my breasts?
A. It is possible that maca could have the effect of weight gain
and lead to breast nipples sensation increase but I don't have enough feedback
from women maca supplement users to know for certain.
Q. To date I have not taken any more maca. I have
instead started taking 3 tablespoons of flaxseed that has been ground up. I have
not had any more hot flashes, my breast are starting to be less tender and I
have lost a pound. I thought I would just report this information for your
study. As far as I can see, not taking the maca makes a big difference.
I have looked and read your online website with alot of interest. I am a 54 year old menopausal woman whom went into menopause at the age of 50. I have not taken any supplements or hormones for this and basically suffered with hot flashes, night sweats and anxiety for 4 years- along with other symptoms. I was not sure where to turn for help that would not cause more harm than good (so many different opinions on treatments was unsure of trying anything) plus I'd prefer to try natural over pharmaceutical drugs. I have been on maca pills now since Oct 2008 and now it is January 2009. I have found that maca herb has helped immensely with my hot flashes and night sweats. I now have none at all, or one, once I awhile. Also have other symptoms, low Ibibio / vaginal dryness which I believe it is helping too, plus my doctor diagnosed my thyroid was low in certain hormones (T3, T4) in Oct. I asked him if I could try a natural supplement before putting me on any type of drug and he said I could for 2 months. After 2 months, I had bloodwork redone the end of December and went back to him for the results and he said my thyroid was in the normal range now. I believe the maca pill had helped with that also. So all in all, my usage of maca herb has been helpful in alot of ways. But I think I will give it a break for awhile, since you stated it is best to stop using - off and on.
Hi, I was wondering, if you're taking maca for rebalancing
the hormones and it starts working, do you stop immidiatly, and once stopped,
will the effects remain or will you need to take it for ever?
There are no simple answers since each person is different in
their response and need. Chances are when the herbal product is stopped, the
effects will wear off within a few days. "Balancing hormone levels" is not a
term I use since it is not specific or clear.
Maca root human research studies - Maca Information
and health benefit of maca supplement
Effect of Lepidium meyenii ( Maca herb ), a root with aphrodisiac
and fertility-enhancing properties, on serum reproductive hormone levels in
adult healthy men.
J Endocrinol. 2003 Jan;176(1):163-8.
Lepidium meyenii ( maca herb ) is a Peruvian hypocotyl that grows exclusively
between 4000 and 4500 m in the central Andes. Maca is traditionally employed in
the Andean region for its supposed aphrodisiac and/or fertility-enhancing
properties. This maca study was a 12-week double-blind, placebo-controlled,
randomized, parallel trial in which active treatment with different doses of
maca Gelatinizada was compared with a placebo. The study aimed to test the
hypothesis that maca has no effect on serum reproductive hormone levels in
apparently healthy men when administered in doses used for aphrodisiac and/or
fertility-enhancing properties. Men aged between 21 and 56 Years received 1500
mg or 3000 mg maca herb. Serum levels of luteinizing hormone, follicle-stimulating
hormone, prolactin, 17-alpha hydroxyprogesterone, testosterone and 17-beta
estradiol were measured before and at 2, 4, 8 and 12 weeks of treatment with
placebo or maca (1.5 g or 3.0 g per day). Compared with placebo maca had no effect on any of the hormones studied nor did the hormones show any
changes over time. Multiple regression analysis showed that serum testosterone
levels were not affected by treatment with maca at any of the times studied. In conclusion, treatment with Maca does not affect serum
reproductive hormone levels.
Effect of Lepidium meyenii herb on sexual desire and its absent relationship
with serum testosterone levels in adult healthy men.
Andrologia. 2002 Dec;34(6):367-72.
This maca study was a 12-week double blind placebo-controlled, randomized,
parallel trial in which active treatment with different doses of Maca
Gelatinizada was compared with placebo. The study aimed to demonstrate if effect
of Maca on subjective report of sexual desire was because of effect on mood or
serum testosterone levels. Men aged 21-56 years received maca in one of two
doses: 1,500 mg or 3,000 mg or placebo. Self-perception on sexual desire, score
for Hamilton test for depression, and Hamilton test for anxiety were measured at
4, 8 and 12 weeks of maca treatment. An improvement in sexual desire was observed
with maca since 8 weeks of treatment. Serum testosterone and estradiol levels
were not different in men treated with maca and in those treated with placebo.
Logistic regression analysis showed that maca has an independent effect on
sexual desire at 8 and 12 weeks of treatment, and this effect is not because of
changes in either Hamilton scores for depression or anxiety or serum
testosterone and estradiol levels. In conclusion, treatment with maca improved
sexual desire.
Smallanthus sonchifolius and Lepidium meyenii ( maca herb ) -
prospective Andean crops for the prevention of chronic diseases.
Biomed Pap Med Fac Univ Palacky Olomouc Czech Repub. 2003 Dec;147(2):119-30.
Smallanthus sonchifolius (yacon) and Lepidium meyenii ( maca ) were the
traditional crops of the original population of Peru where they are also still
used in folk medicine. These plants are little known in Europe and Northern
America although at least yacon can be cultivated in the climatic conditions of
these regions. This article deals with the botany and the composition, the
structure of main constituents, biological activity of maca and the cultivation
of yacon in the Czech Republic. The potential of yacon tubers to treat
hyperglycemia, kidney problems and for skin rejuvenation and the
antihyperglycemic and cytoprotective activity of its leaves seems to be related
mostly to its oligofructan and phenolic content, respectively. Maca extract alkaloids,
steroids, glucosinolates, isothicyanates and macamides are probably responsible
for its aptitude to act as a fertility enhancer, aphrodisiac, adaptogen, and
immunostimulant. Yacon and maca herb are already on the European market as
prospective functional foods and dietary supplements, mainly for use in certain
risk groups of the population, e.g. seniors, diabetics, postmenopausal women
etc. maca root history maca maca herb maca extract la maca maca powder maca man maca peru.
Maca Powder and Maca Extract Animal Studies
Red maca (Lepidium meyenii) reduced
prostate size in rats.
Reprod Biol Endocrinol. 2005 Jan 20;3(1):5.
Epidemiological studies have found that consumption of cruciferous vegetables
is associated with a reduced risk of prostate cancer. This effect seems to be
due to aromatic glucosinolate content. Glucosinolates are known for have both
antiproliferative and proapoptotic actions.Maca is a cruciferous cultivated in
the highlands of Peru. The absolute content of glucosinolates in Maca hypocotyls
is relatively higher than that reported in other cruciferous crops. Therefore,
Maca may have proapoptotic and anti-proliferative effects in the prostate.
Male rats treated with or without aqueous extracts of three ecotypes of Maca (Yellow, Black and Red) were analyzed to determine the effect on ventral
prostate weight, epithelial height and duct luminal area. Effects on serum
testosterone (T) and estradiol (E2) levels were also assessed. Besides, the
effect of Red Maca on prostate was analyzed in rats treated with testosterone
enanthate (TE). RESULTS: Red Maca but neither Yellow nor Black Maca reduced
significantly ventral prostate size in rats. Serum T or E2 levels were not
affected by any of the ecotypes of Maca assessed. Red Maca also prevented the
prostate weight increase induced by TE treatment. Red Maca administered for 42
days reduced ventral prostatic epithelial height. TE increased ventral prostatic
epithelial height and duct luminal area. These increases by TE were reduced
after treatment with Red Maca for 42 days. Histology pictures in rats treated
with Red Maca plus TE were similar to controls. Phytochemical screening showed
that aqueous extract of Red Maca has alkaloids, steroids, tannins, saponins, and
cardiotonic glycosides. The IR spectra of the three ecotypes of Maca in 3800-650
cm (-1) region had 7 peaks representing 7 functional chemical groups. Highest
peak values were observed for Red Maca, intermediate values for Yellow Maca and
low values for Black Maca. These functional groups correspond among others to
benzyl glucosinolate. Red Maca, a cruciferous plant from the
highland of Peru, reduced ventral prostate size in normal and TE treated rats.
Effect of Lepidium meyenii root on spermatogenesis in male
rats acutely exposed to high altitude.
J Endocrinol. 2004 Jan;180(1):87-95.
Lepidium meyenii ( Maca ) is a Peruvian
hypocotyl that grows exclusively between 4000 and 4500 m in the central Andes.
Maca is traditionally employed in the Andean region for its supposed
fertility-enhancing properties. The aim of this study was to test the hypothesis
that Maca can prevent high altitude-induced testicular disturbances. Adult male
rats were exposed for 21 days to an altitude of 4340 m and treated with vehicle
or aqueous extract of Maca. The lengths of the stages of the seminiferous epithelium and epididymal sperm counts were obtained at 0, 7, 14
and 21 days of exposure. The stages of the seminiferous tubules were assessed by
transillumination. A dose-response study was also performed at sea level to
determine the effect of Maca given to male rats for 7 days on body weight, seminiferous tubule stages and
epididymal sperm count. The length of stage VIII and the epididymal sperm count
were increased in a dose-dependent manner in Maca-treated rats but treatment
reduced the length of stage I. At the highest dose, sperm count increased 1.58
times, the length of stage VIII increased 2.4 times and the length of stage I
was reduced 0.48 times compared with the value at dose 0. Exposure to high
altitude resulted in a reduction in epididymal sperm count after 7 days and
lower values were maintained up to 21 days. Altitude reduced spermiation (stage
VIII) to half and the onset of spermatogenesis to a quarter on
days 7 and 14 but treatment with Maca (666.6 mg/day) prevented these changes.
Data on transillumination and epididymal sperm count in the Maca-treated group
exposed to high altitude were similar to those obtained at sea level. Maca
increased the sperm count on day 21 of exposure to high altitude to values
similar to those obtained in the Maca-treated group at sea level. Furthermore,
in the Maca-treated group exposed for 21 days to high altitude, epididymal sperm
count was higher than in the non-treated group at sea level sperm). In
conclusion, treatment of rats with Maca at high altitude prevented high
altitude-induced spermatogenic disruption.
Effect of alcoholic extract of Lepidium meyenii on testicular
function in male rats.
Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, Postal Office Lima, Peru.
To evaluate the effect of the alcoholic extract of Lepidium meyenii (Maca) on
the spermatogenesis in male rats. In Holtzman rats, Maca alcoholic extract (5 %)
was given by oral route at doses of 48 mg/day or 96 mg/day for 7 days, 14 days
and 21 days. Testicular function was assessed by measurements of lengths of
different stages of seminiferous epithelia and by epididymal sperm count.
Ethanolic extract of Maca increased the length of stages IX-XI of
seminiferous epithelium at treatment day 7, day 14 and day 21. Progression of
spermatogenesis was evident only after day 21 when lengths of stages XII-XIV of
seminiferous epithelium were increased; at day 7 and day 14, no important change
in spermatogenesis was observed. Epididymal sperm count was increased with 48
mg/day at all times. With 96 mg/day an increase in sperm count was observed at
day 7, but it was reduced at day 14 and day 21 of treatment. Serum testosterone
levels were not affected. The alcoholic extract of Maca activates
onset ant progression of spermatogenesis at 48 mg/day or 96 mg/day in rats.
Hexanic Maca extract improves rat sexual performance more effectively than
methanolic and chloroformic Maca extracts.
Andrologia. 2002 Jun;34(3):177-9.
Lepidium meyenii is traditionally employed in the Andean region for
its supposed properties in improving fertility. The aim of this study was to
determine the effect of subacute oral administration of hexanic, methanolic and
chloroformic extracts of Maca root on sexual performance in inexperienced male
rats. The following sexual performance parameters were evaluated: 1st mount, 1st
intromission, ejaculation and post-ejaculatory latencies, intercopulatory
interval and copulatory efficacy. All the tested fractions significantly
decreased intromission latency and intercopulatory interval and increased
intromission frequency and copulatory efficacy as compared to
controls. Hexanic and methanolic extracts were able to increase mount frequency
(MF), while only hexanic fraction significantly improved mount latency. Globally, only the hexanic fraction significantly improved the
majority of the sexual parameters measured. Sub-acute oral administration of
hexanic Maca extract improved sexual performance parameters in sexually
inexperienced male rats most effectively.
Maca root improves sexual behavior in male rats independently from
its action on spontaneous locomotor activity.
J Ethnopharmacol. 2001 May;75(2-3):225-9.
Lepidium meyenii Walpers Maca root is traditionally employed in the Andean
region for its supposed properties to improve energy and fertility. The aim of
this study was to evaluate the effect of acute and chronic Maca pulverised root
oral administration on rat sexual behavior. Sixty male sexually experienced
rats (20 group) were daily treated for 15 days with Maca 15 mg kg(-1), Maca 75
mg kg(-1) or saline The following sexual performance parameters
were evaluated at first and last day of treatment: 1st mount (ML), 1st
intromission (IL), ejaculation (EL) and postejaculatory (PEL) latencies,
intercopulatory interval (ICI) and copulatory efficacy (CE). It was observed that both lower and
higher Maca doses acutely decreased ML, IL and ICI in a significant way, while only the 75 mg kg(-1) dose decreased the PEL.
After 15 days of treatment,
both doses are able to significantly decrease ML, IL, EL and PEL, while the 75
mg kg(-1) dose decreased the ICI too. Both acute and chronic maca oral
administration significantly improve sexual performance parameters in male rats.
Nutritional evaluation of Lepidium meyenii ( Maca root ) in albino mice and their
descendants
Arch Latinoam Nutr. 2000 Jun;50(2):126-33.
The Maca herb Lepidium meyenii grows exclusively
between 3700 and 4500 meters in the Peruvian Andes. Traditionally maca is
used for its nutritional, energizing, fertilizing properties among others. We
carried out a controlled maca study in two generations of albino Swiss mice. The parents were assigned to one of three nutritional
schedules. The food of each group was prepared based on powder from a commercial
balanced food (CBF) of which 30% was replaced by raw or cooked maca according to
the corresponding group or pure CBF in the control group. The groups were this
way: 1) Raw Maca Group; 2) Cooked Maca Group; and, 3) Control Group. The results
showed that the curves of growth were similar and adequate for the three groups.
However, the cooked maca group showed the best curve. These data were better
observable in the second generation of animals, with significant statistical
differenc. The CBF group had a better growth than raw Maca group. No
signs of malnutrition nor overweight were observed in none of the groups. The
serum values of total proteins and albumin were statistically superior for the
mice group eating cooked maca than that of the raw maca and CBF groups. This
study demonstrates one of the traditionally
attributed properties of maca, the nutritional capability.
Maca herb laboratory Studies
Imidazole alkaloids from Lepidium meyenii ( maca extract ).
J Nat Prod. 2003 Aug;66(8):1101-3.
Two new imidazole alkaloids (lepidiline A and lepidiline B) have been
isolated from a root extract of Lepidium meyenii with the common name Maca herb.
Investigation of the tuber constituents of maca herb (Lepidium meyenii Walp.).
J Agric Food Chem. 2002 Sep 25;50(20):5621-5.
Maca herb has received attention
worldwide as a powerful energizer that improves physical and mental conditions
and increases fertility. Because of these reports, we investigated the secondary
metabolites of the tuber of maca. The methanol extract of the tuber of maca
contained, in addition to free sugars and amino acids, the following: uridine,
malic acid and its benzoyl derivative, and the glucosinolates, glucotropaeolin
and m-methoxyglucotropaeolin. The methanol extract of maca
tuber also contained (1R,3S)-1-methyltetrahydro-beta-carboline-3-carboxylic
acid, a molecule which is reported to exert many activities on the central
nervous system.
Maca history
It has been reported that Inca warriors ate maca before engaging into battle to
increase their vitality and stamina. Peruvians may have used maca to pay taxes
to Spanish conquistadors. If you visit Peru, you may find locals consuming maca
root boiled alongside dried vicuņa meat in soups. Maca flour is used to make
sponge cake. Villagers sell maca juice to tourists.
Maca Herbal supplement emails
Q. I bought a
bottle of maca herb. How long does it take to feel the effects?
A. Most people notice the effects from maca
root
after a few days. It is difficult to give a precise number of days since each
person is different.
Q. I
have bought your book "Mind boosters," and I have finished reading it today. I
have to tell you that your book is wonderful, is very useful and precise. I am a 41-year-old Peruvian engineer, and I am
going to try some nutrients from your book. Talking about herbs, in Peru we have a wide
variety of medicinal herbs, one of them is the Maca Andina as you mention in your book,
but we have many many others, unfortunately I can’t describe them because I
don’t have the information on hand. Regards and congratulations! Lima Peru.
A.
Thank you for the feedback. I visited Peru in 1994 and hiked the Inca trail to Machu
Picchu. It was one of the highlights of my life. You live in a very beautiful country.
Q. Can maca be taken daily for many months
A. Probably, if the maca dose is low enough. Too high a dose can be overly
stimulating. As with most herbs, I recommend taking breaks from use.
Q. I am just writing to you with regards to my recent
experiences in taking Maca root. First of all I just wanted to sincerely congratulate
you on your uniquely informative website with its candid, unbiased and clear
information. It is a very rare reality and I highly commend you for the work you
are doing to inform the consumer. Thank you!
Like I said, I recently tried Maca herb. I purchased it from
Imperial Gold Maca website which seems to be the seller for a high grade
product. But of course they all are... Nonetheless something about their website
seems to suggest a certain bona fide air about their product.
The first week I was taking 5-6 maca capsules per day
(each maca capsule is 550mg). I found my mood was undoubtedly enhanced in a
positive way and my energy increased. I felt more focused and able to perform
mental and physical tasks much more effectively. Really great and surprising
results from maca both for the subtelty and yet clarity of the effects. However
I found that I had greater difficulty in achieving strong and hard erections for
some reason. This really surprised me given that maca herb is supposed to do the
opposite and increase the potency of erections and libido. On this count however
it was actually worse than before, there was greater time and stimulation needed
to achieve firmness and it was not as potent an erection as usual. I also found
it more difficult to become erect again after a first ejaculation. On the other
hand the amount of seminal fluid was greater than usual and thicker in
consistency. I just thought I'd write to you about this because I was wondering
if you had had other testimonials with this sort of feedback with regards to
maca herb. I have to say that I stopped taking Maca herb after a week because I was not
happy with this unexpected side effect on me. This was a disappointing decision
because on all other counts it was really proving to have fantastic results and
I just wanted to find out if maybe over time this apparently unusual negative
side effect could subside and my erections would return to normal. Then a few
days ago I took 4 caps of Maca again and felt great and my focus was better
again and so I decided to try to find out more from a source I feel to be
truthful and direct. I would really like to keep taking Maca and enjoy all the
positive things I am getting but do not want to experience this highly unwelcome
side effect which indeed I understand it is supposed to actually aid. Maybe the
product is not good- but the enhancement in mood, energy and focus seems to
suggest otherwise. Maybe the maca quantities are not right or maybe I should
just keep taking maca for longer and it will eventually change and indeed also
fulfill its promise for powerful erections and libido enhancement.
A. Your response to maca root is not uncommon. I have not
found it to be the best aphrodisiac currently available on the market. I find
Tongkat ali, horny goat weed, catuaba, and tribulus to be more effective than
maca root, particularly tongkat ali. However, each herb plays a role in the overall
sexual enhancement field, and sometimes combinations work better.
Q. What is Maca Forte?
A. Maca Forte is a brand name extract of maca root that
contains 0.6% glucosinolates.
Q. Is low energy a maca side effect?
A. Actually maca improves energy, unless to much is
taken leading to insomnia which could cause a maca side effect of tiredness if
sleep is not deep enough.
Q. Is Peruvian maca root better than maca root
from other countries?
A. Maca root grows in the Andes mountains which stretch
in Chile, Bolivia, and other neighboring countries. I don't see why maca grown
in Peru is any better than maca grown in Bolivia or Chile.
Q. What's the difference between maca powder and
maca extract?
A. An extract of an herb means that the active
ingredients are more concentrated and some of the fiber, and other substances
within the herb are removed to make it more potent. Each herb is different in
regards to powder or an extract being preferable. You can try both maca powder
or maca extract and see which one works for you better.
Q. Is Maca a vitamin?
A. Maca is an herb but it does have many vitamins in
it.
Q. Could a woman use maca?
A. Of course, maca can be used by women or men. Maca
powder and maca root extract can be used by both sexes.
Q. Is maca maca different than maca?
A. I don't know why some people call it maca maca as
opposed to the single word maca.
Q. If a woman is undergoing fertility treatment,
do you have any information or resources as to when it would be the best time to
start taking maca herb and when it will be the best time to stop taking it. Any
information will be greatly appreciated.
A. There has been so little research with maca and fertility that
it is anybody's guess at this time regarding the best way to take maca herb.
Plus, there are many reasons for fertility problems, and perhaps maca, IF it
works at all, only addresses one or some of these reasons.
Q. I do have to tell you I have had two in-vitros.
During the first in-vitro the quality of my eggs was average. At the start of my
second in-vitro I began taking one tablespoon of maca powder on a daily basis
without of course telling my MD (I stopped when I found out I was pregnant).
However, what my MD does have in writing is the blood tests results as well as
the results on the quality of my eggs. During the second in-vitro the quality of
my eggs was much better and as I said before, I did get pregnant. Unfortunately,
I miscarried after five weeks (empty sac pregnancy). A friend recently had her
second in-vitro. She too took lots of maca (Liquid and capsules) and she had the
same improvement in the quality of her eggs. She does not know yet if the in
vitro will work. I think many women, including myself will volunteer to find out
more information about the effects of maca in womens' reproduction.
Q. Is maca legal in Canada?
A. Yes, it is legal to import maca into Canada.
Q. Can horny goat weed be taken the same day as
maca?
A. Only if both the horny goat weed and maca dosages are reduced by
half.
Q. Q. What's the difference between Peruvian maca root
and regular maca root ?
A. Most of the maca raw material comes from Peru, so Peruvian maca root does not add
much information.
Q. First of all, thank you for your wonderful
website. You do a tremendous service providing information, recent research,
consumer experiences - it's such a help.
I am writing to mention my experience with maca that perhaps you may want to add
to your site. I began taking half a teaspoon daily of raw dried maca root one
week ago. on the 3rd day I took a 2nd half tsp and since then reduced to a
quarter tsp (I am dealing with autoimmune hypothryoidism and take Armour thyroid
2 times a day) The day i began taking maca I had was at my highest energy level
in years, and for the prior 3 weeks had been experiencing high energy and high
metabolism and strong immunity. All that changed with the maca. Immediately
after taking it I felt an effect and my energy level has rapidly plummeted to
incapacitation (effectively bedridden now), and heart palpitations and 'lump in
the throat' feeling I attribute to goiter. I also seem to have gained weight
almost overnight and feel lowered immunity, feeling 'fluish.' I researched very
very extensively on the web before trying the maca, and only today, after I'm
now feeling so awful, have I found some references to maca containing
glucosinates, which when accompanied by a low iodine diet, can conribute to
goiter and reduced thyroid
activity, but no known references to maca bringing this about. And, also read
that the darker varieties contain higher levels of iodine. Also, when I
mentioned this to the health food store that recommended the product, they said
that maca shouldn't be taken with hypothyroid conditions, that it depends on the
variety of maca. I'd
read enough about hypothyroid women having positive experiences with this herb
and being able to lower their thyroid medicines, that I thought I'd give it a
try. I'm going to stop the herb and let my body settle. I thought my experience
should be mentioned. I also realize the quality of the maca and its purity can
also be factors and the fact that it is raw and in one herbal monograph I found
a mention that maca is traditionally only consumed cooked. I thought I would
share my experience since I've learned so much on your site from others who've
shared theirs.
A. Thanks for sharing. Much of an effect of a supplement depends on
the dosage, the quality of the product, the purity, and interactions with
medications or medical conditions a person already has. Some supplements may be
beneficial if the dosage is kept very low and they can have bad side effects if
the dosage is high.
Q. What I think happened was that the maca on top
of the Armour thyroid overstimulated my thyroid - it's taken a few days but it's
now calming down. Interestingly, the other effects maca is known for, I did feel
immediately, and they've lingered even though I stopped the maca. The upside of
this is the possibility of switching from the glandular to the maca which heals
and nourishes not only the thyroid but the whole body, and more of a lasting
solution than a bandaid that I see the glandulars as. Healing is such a journey,
and much of that journey involved trial and error. And, I know on my journey,
much good information and guidance I've found on your website - yours is a
source people can trust and build on.
A very good friend of mine is taking maca and he
has a question but afraid to ask, so i decided to ask an expert and im sure this
question is very common to many who use sexual enhancement supplements. My
friend told me he started taking maca herb a couple of weeks ago, just 500 mg a
day, it worked after about a week, but then the good effect didnt last long, it
was just three or four days and now that he still takes it, but with no or very
little effect. I know dr sahelian is an expert on taking breaks, i dont want to
tell my friend what to do even though i have an idea, may i know from dr
sahelian pls, how can my friend regain the positive effect he once has while
taking maca herbal pill, i know he should change the dose or take a break for
few days, but can we have a more specify idea?
I can't provide specific advice but in general it is a good
idea to take a long break when something stops working or switch to another herb
or supplement that has similar effects.
This page was last updated in 2009. See a YouTube presentation http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=na6Xsn24o8g