Maca
Maca
Blog Article
What is Maca? Six Major Benefits, Usage, Side Effects, and Recommended Dosage
What is Maca (Lepidium meyenii)?
Maca, also known as Peruvian ginseng, is a plant native to the high-altitude regions of the Andes, growing above 4000 meters. Due to its ability to survive in extreme environments, maca has strong adaptability and resilience.
The nutritional value of maca is concentrated in its root, which comes in three colors: yellow, red, and black. Black maca is considered the most valuable due to its highest quality and scarcity in the market.
The root contains proteins, carbohydrates, fatty acids, amino acids, minerals, vitamins, and active compounds such as glucosinolates, sterols, polysaccharides, taurine, polyphenols, and saponins. Among them, macaenes and macamides are especially valued for their significant effects on enhancing sexual function.
Common Types of Maca
Maca is widely known for its ability to boost sexual function. However, it also offers additional benefits such as regulating physiological functions, enhancing athletic performance, and balancing hormones. Both men and women can benefit from maca. Below are the six major benefits of Maca:
1. Improves Sperm Quality and Quantity
Sperm quality is crucial for male fertility. Studies have shown that maca intake significantly improves sperm morphology, concentration, and motility.
2. Enhances Erectile Function
Maca contains active compounds like macamides that regulate nitric oxide and cGMP levels, aiding in erectile function. A 12-week study found that consuming 2400mg of maca daily significantly improved erectile function and sexual satisfaction.
3. Relieves Menopausal Symptoms in Women
Maca helps balance hormones and regulate endocrine function, alleviating symptoms such as anxiety, depression, and low libido in menopausal women.
4. Boosts Libido
Modern stress can lead to a decline in sexual desire. Maca helps regulate hormone levels, enhancing libido and improving the quality of sexual life.
5. Enhances Athletic Performance
Maca is increasingly used to improve athletic performance. Many athletes take maca as a daily supplement to strengthen muscles and enhance workout results.
6. Reduces Fatigue and Boosts Energy
Maca contains amino acids and taurine, which help combat fatigue, while its polysaccharides offer strong antioxidant properties, protecting against free radical damage. This is why many energy-boosting supplements include maca as an ingredient.
How to Choose the Right Maca Supplement? Follow These Four Principles
1. Choose Products Containing Black Maca for the Best Nutrition
Black maca has the highest nutritional value, followed by red and yellow maca. It is recommended to prioritize products that contain black maca for maximum benefits.
2. Opt for Patented and Certified Maca Ingredients
Checking whether a product contains patented and certified maca is a reliable way to ensure quality.
3. Look for Beneficial Compound Ingredients
Products containing L-arginine, zinc, and damiana can enhance maca’s effects, providing greater health benefits.
4. Ensure the Product is SGS Tested for Safety
Choose products that undergo SGS batch testing with publicly available reports to ensure food safety. Avoid products with unclear testing information.
Recommended Maca Dosage
Most studies recommend a daily intake of 500 to 3000mg of maca for optimal benefits. Although there is no strict upper limit, it is advisable to follow product dosage recommendations to avoid excessive intake.
Precautions and Side Effects of Maca
Generally, maca is safe for consumption, but individuals with hyperthyroidism, liver or kidney disease, those taking hormone medications, pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult a professional before taking maca. Additionally, maca is rich in vitamin K and should not be taken with anticoagulants to avoid interference with blood clotting.