Overview
Maca, also called Peruvian ginseng, is a member of the cruciferous family. The root of the maca plant has been used medicinally, as an aphrodisiac and fertility enhancer, for centuries in South America. In David Wolfe’s “Superfoods, The Medicine of the Future,” maca is discussed for its adaptogenic effects, nutrient content and healing benefits to the body. Science tested maca for its fertility enhancing properties as early as the 1960s.
History
Used for its nutritional and medicinal properties, maca has been a dietary staple since pre-Incan times. Revered for its ability to increase fertility in humans and animals, maca was used as currency during the pre- and post-Spanish conquest in the Andes. Today, Peruvian medicine uses maca for a variety of ailments including immunity, menopause, sterility, cancer and memory.
Function
Raintree Nutrition, a tropical database, explains that due to its nutritional content, sexual function and fertility may increase when taking maca. Containing 10 percent protein, dried maca root provides the body with essential amino acids. Amino acids are responsible for cellular functions in the body, including fertility and sexual health. The amino acid arginine, found in abundance in maca, increases sperm quantity and mobility. Maca’s nutrient content also increases the function of the endocrine glands, including the adrenal and pituitary glands, resulting in increased energy, stamina and libido.
Research
A study published in 2010, conducted by the Institute of Plant, Animal and Agroecosystem Sciences in Switzerland evaluated the effects of maca on the quality and quantity of sperm in male bulls. After supplementing with maca for a 10-week period, the bulls showed an increase in both sperm mobility and quantity. A second study on rats, published in 2006 by the Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia in Peru, showed that after being given only one oral dose of black maca, there was an increase in sperm count. No scientific research to date has proven that maca can balance or increase sex hormones, specifically estrogen and testosterone.
How to Use
Raw, organic dried maca root, available in capsules, liquids and powder form is commercially available. The dried powder can be added to juice, water, smoothies, desserts or salad dressings. Energy bars, superfood brittle and organic chocolate bars have begun to include maca. In “Superfoods, The Medicine of the Future,” David Wolfe recommends taking one heaping tablespoon to start, in order to see how your body reacts. You may increase to two heaping tablespoons or the recommended dose for optimum results.
Precautions
Maca shows little or no toxicity reactions. Taken in large amounts, maca may cause stomach discomfort. Thyroid patients should discuss taking maca with their doctor. Maca shows no major pharmaceutical drug interactions and can be taken with other herbal remedies. Use maca supplements to enhance your overall nutrition and not as a cure for any specific ailment. Always discuss starting a new herbal regime with a trained professional.
About this Author
Rachel Venokur-Clark is a certified holistic health counselor through The Institute for Integrative Nutrition in New York City and the American Association of Drugless Practitioners. Venokur-Clark is trained in all the different dietary theories, Eastern and Western nutrition, modern health issues, personal growth and development, and health counseling.
