What Are the Benefits and Harms of Maca Root?

Maca root is a plant native to Peru. It is generally available in powder form or as capsules. fertility and sexual potency used to increase. It is also thought to give energy. The benefits of maca root are that it relieves menopausal symptoms, improves mental health and strengthens memory.

What Is Maca Root?

Scientifically "Lepidium meyenii"" The maca plant, also known as Peruvian ginseng, is also known as Peruvian ginseng. In Peru, it grows under harsh conditions and at very high altitudes above 4000 meters.

From cruciferous vegetables broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage is from the same family. There is a long history of culinary and medicinal use in Peru. The edible part of the plant is the root that grows underground. It comes in a variety of colors ranging from white to black.

Maca root is usually dried and consumed in powder form. However, it is also available as capsules and liquid extracts. The powder of the plant can be consumed with oatmeal and desserts.

Maca Root Nutritional Value

Very nutritious, maca root is a great source of some important vitamins and minerals. The nutritional value of 28 grams of maca root powder is as follows:

• Calories: 91
• Carbs: 20 grams
• Protein: 4 grams
• Fiber: 2 grams
• Fat: 1 grams
• Vitamin C: 133% of the RDI
• Copper: 85% of the RDI
• Iron: 23% of the RDI
• Potassium: 16% of the RDI
• Vitamin B6: 15% of the RDI
• Manganese: 10% of the RDI

Maca root contains high amounts of carbohydrates and protein. It's low in fat and contains a pretty good amount of fiber. C vitamin, Virgin ve iron It is also high in some essential vitamins and minerals, such as It contains various plant compounds such as glucosinolates and polyphenols.

Benefits of Maca Root

•  Rich in antioxidants

Maca root acts as a natural antioxidant, increasing the levels of antioxidants such as glutathione and superoxide dismutase in the body. Antioxidants help neutralize harmful free radicals, fight chronic diseases and prevent damage to cells. Antioxidants significantly lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels in the liver. It regulates blood sugar and prevents the development of chronic diseases. It also protects against neurological damage.

• Increases libido in men and women

Decreased sexual desire is a common problem among adults. Herbs and plants that naturally increase libido are of great interest. It is supported by studies that maca root increases sexual desire.

• Increases fertility in men

The quality and quantity of sperm is very important in men's fertility. There is some evidence that maca root positively affects male fertility.

• Relieves menopause symptoms

MenopauseIt is a difficult process for women. The natural decline of estrogen during this period causes a number of unpleasant symptoms. These include hot flashes, vaginal dryness, mood swings, sleep problems, and irritability. A review of four studies in menopausal women found that the maca plant capsule relieved menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes and sleep disruption.

• Improves mental health

Several studies have shown that maca root capsule improves mood. Especially in women who have gone through menopause anxiety and reduces the symptoms of depression. Because this plant contains plant compounds called flavonoids.

• Improves sports performance

Maca root powder is a popular supplement among bodybuilders and athletes. It helps to gain muscle, increase strength, increase energy and improve exercise performance. In addition, some animal studies have also shown that it improves endurance performance.

• Protects from the sun when applied to the skin

Ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun damage unprotected skin. Over time, UV radiation causes wrinkles, increasing the risk of skin cancer. There are studies that applying a concentrated maca extract to the skin can help protect it from UV rays. One study found that maca extract applied to the skin of five rats every three weeks prevented skin damage from UV exposure.

• Boosts memory

Maca root improves brain function. It has traditionally been used by natives in Peru to improve children's performance in school. In animal studies, maca improved learning and memory in rodents with memory impairment. Black maca is the best for improving memory.

• Decreases prostate size

The prostate is a gland found only in men. Enlargement of the prostate gland, also known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), is common in older men. A larger prostate causes several problems with the passage of urine, as it surrounds the tube through which urine is expelled from the body.

Several studies in rodents have noted that red maca reduces prostate size. The effect of red maca on the prostate is thought to be related to its high amounts of glucosinolates. These substances also reduce the risk of prostate cancer.

How to Use Maca Root

Maca root capsule or pill can be taken as a supplement. powdered oatmeal, smoothiescan join baked goods and energy bars. 

The optimal dose for medical use has not been determined. However, the dose of maca root powder used in research is usually in the range of 1.5-5 grams per day.

You can find maca in some supermarkets, health food stores, and online stores. Maca root is categorized by color and is most commonly found in yellow, black, or red. All maca colors have similar benefits, but certain maca types and colors are considered more beneficial for certain medical conditions. 

Red maca powder is the most common form of supplement. Gelatinized maca powder is sometimes called maca flour.

Maca Root and Ginseng

like maca ginseng It is also a plant with succulent roots and powerful medicinal properties. Both have been used in traditional medicine for centuries. It provides similar benefits such as strengthening memory, giving energy, reducing menopausal symptoms and balancing blood sugar. Ginseng and maca also contain antioxidants and have powerful anti-inflammatory properties.

But there are some differences that distinguish these two root vegetables from each other. First of all, there is more research on ginseng and a wider range of unique health benefits. Some test-tube and animal studies have found that ginseng can improve brain function, aid weight loss, boost immunity, and even destroy cancer cells. 

Maca root is considered a cruciferous vegetable like broccoli or Brussels sprouts, while ginseng belongs to the Araliaceae plant family, which consists primarily of tropical shrubs and trees. Ginseng is also more bitter; Maca, on the other hand, has an earthy, nutty flavor that is often added to recipes and beverages to increase both its nutrient content and flavor profile.

Harms of Maca Root

Maca root, which is generally considered safe, has some side effects.

• peruvian natives, fresh maca He thinks that consuming the root has negative effects on health and that it should be boiled first.
• Thyroid Those who have problems should be careful about using this herb. Because it contains substances that can interfere with the normal function of the thyroid gland, such as goitrogens. In those with poor thyroid function, these compounds affect the person.
• Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult their doctor before use.
• Due to the effects of maca root on hormone levels, doctors consider it should not be consumed by people taking hormone-altering medication for the treatment of diseases such as breast cancer or prostate cancer, or in other serious conditions. 
• People with high blood pressure are advised not to consume maca root to avoid its negative side effects.

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