Maca is known scientifically as Lepidium Meyenii, also known as Peruvian ginseng, Viagra Peru. Maca is a plant derived from cruciferous plants in the Andes region of Peru. Maca is similar in shape and size to a turnip with tops and roots. This plant grows mainly in the Andes of central Peru under harsh conditions and at altitudes between 4,000 ~ 4,500 meters, many centuries before humans. Indigenous peoples used this tuber as food and medicine.
Uses of Maca
Maca is famous for its use in increasing physiological capacity and as a physical supplement, providing essential nutrients for the body similar to vitamin B group supplements and here are some benefits when used: Maca.
In 2016, a study in the European Medical Journal Maturitas found that taking Maca supplements can help improve sperm quality (mass, quantity, and function, etc.), and possibly even enhance it. sexual desire.
In addition, another study in 2007 showed that Maca supplementation was effective in improving symptoms of prostate enlargement.
Help with physical activity
Research shows that Maca supplements can help build muscle, increase strength, improve fitness, and improve physical performance.
In addition, other experiments have proven that Maca is very effective in reducing restlessness, anxiety, cognitive function of the brain, chronic altitude sickness, osteoporosis and antioxidant.
Usage and dosage
The types of prepared Maca sold in Taiwan are quite common and diverse, including capsules, concentrates, dried slices, tea bags, etc. But there is no significant difference in effectiveness, this depends on the usage habits of consumers.
Maca is rich in protein, although there are no special rules about taking it before or after a meal. But usually if taken before meals on an empty stomach, the absorption will be better. Detailed dosage recommendations for use according to the content on the product packaging.
How to choose the daily dose of Maca? Gelatinization process? Condensation process?
A study by the University of Peruana Cayetano Heredia in Peru showed that a daily dose of 500 to 1,000 milligrams (mg) of Maca three times a day is effective.
In clinical experiments, the dose of Maca used to achieve the effect must be at least 2,400mg per day, because Maca contains a lot of starch macromolecules that are difficult to digest, so the nutrients Maca through the process of gelatinization. The new chemical can be fully absorbed.
Different manufacturers will have different gelatinization and concentration technology, some manufacturers show Maca product content after concentration, the actual ingredient is only 400-500 mg, but they say For consumers, the content of Maca root for preparation ranges from 2400 mg-3000 mg. This explanation will cause consumers to misunderstand, unable to assess the exact content from how much Maca is used to make how much Maca powder. Because it ultimately depends on the gelatinization process and the Maca content must reach 2,400 mg or more. At the same time, you have to be patient to use it for a while to be able to take advantage of it.
Things to watch out for and side effects
Maca is a food with high safety, few side effects, in general, Maca users do not often experience metabolic disorders. However, if you belong to the following groups of people, it is recommended that you consult your doctor before use:
2. Maca contains vitamin K, people taking anticoagulants should consult their doctor before taking.
3. In addition, pregnant women, lactating women, and children should avoid taking Maca supplements. There are currently not enough relevant trials to demonstrate safety in these groups of people.
Reference source:
- A pilot investigation into the effect of maca supplementation on physical activity and sexual desire in sportsmen - PubMed (nih.gov)
- Effect of two different extracts of red maca in male rats with testosterone-induced prostatic hyperplasia - PubMed (nih.gov)
- Maca (Lepidium meyenii Walp), una revisión sobre sus propiedades biológicas (scielo.org.pe)
- Maca (L. meyenii) for improving sexual function: a systematic review - PubMed (nih.gov)
- The use of maca (Lepidium meyenii) to improve semen quality: A systematic review - PubMed (nih.gov)