Source:
Maca (Lepidium peruvianum chacon) - is cultivated in the heights over
3400 up to 4800 meters in the mountain range of the Peruvian Andes.
Maca is a tubercle that grows a few centimeters above ground in form
of a perennial dense bush, producing a small pale flower and a 8-9
cm rays that is the beneficial part of the plant. Interestingly, the
Maca is cultivated with seeds of biennial form, collecting the harvest
between the 6 and 9 months after its plantation. Research as verified
that the Maca was cultivated more than 2000 years in the Peruvian
plateau of Chinchaycocha, and was also cultivated in the pre-Columbian
period in the zone of Junín (Peru).
Traditional
uses:
The Peruvian
popular wisdom states that the Incas, due to their regular consumption
of Maca, lived more than 150 years of age with a total clear mind,
having children after the age of 100 years . When early Spaniards
first arrived in the Andean highlands, they noticed a reduction in
libido and reproduction rates, which they attributed to the high altitude.
Local Andeans recommended Maca and the Spaniards noticed a markedly
positive result.
Native medicine practitioners and herbalists have recommended
Maca for the following:
- Enhancing libido, treating impotence
- Stimulating and regulating the endocrine
system, including the adrenals, the thyroid, the ovaries, and
the testes
- Stimulating fertility in both men and
women
- Increasing energy, stamina and endurance,
reducing chronic fatigue
- Stimulating the immune system
- This product has been geared
primarily to men, not women.
Clinical studies:
The scientific literature sites Maca's rich composition of plant
sterols, benzyl and p-methoxybenzyl glucosinolates, which are known
to improve sexual enhancement. According to a recent study published
in the April 2000 issue of Urology, Maca significantly improved
erectile dysfunction and increased libido in mice and rats treated
with the extract. Unfortunately, without the extensive financial
backing of the large pharmaceutical companies few clinical studies
involving humans have been completed.
Modern day uses:
Maca is rich in essential minerals, especially
iodine, iron, calcium, magnesium, and phosphorous and includes fatty
acids including linolenic, palmitic and oleic acids, and polysaccharides.
Most individuals know that iodine, calcium magnesium and phosphorous
are essential minerals for our well-being
but, what about the benefits of linolenic,
palmitic and oleic acids, polysaccharides and Linolenic acid? Today,
physicians and herbal specialist prescribe Maca for the following:
- Rheumatoid arthritis – studies have shown
that these acids and polysacharides in Maca reduce inflammation
in joints and tissues.
- Diabetes – supplementing these acids
and polysaccharides assists nerve function and prevents nerve
damage caused by diabetes.
- Cancer - the acids and polysaccharides help
suppress tumor growth specifically in breast cancer and melanoma.
- Heart disease - linolenic, palmitic and oleic
acids, and polysaccharides help prevent heart disease by preventing
arteriole sclerosis plaque formation, dilating blood vessels,
and reducing blood pressure.
- Ophthalmic - linolenic acid is beneficial in
Sjögren's syndrome and may be useful in other dry eye conditions.
- Menstrual complications - essential fatty acids
such as linolenic acid and palmitic and oleic acid, reduce inflammation
and support hormone production.
- Linolenic acid - has also been shown to reduce
the symptoms of alcoholism, atopic dermatitis, and osteoporosis.
Precautions and/or side effects:
Maca, is essentially void of any toxicity of side effects making
it one of the safest herbal products available. Individuals with
preexisting medical conditions should consult with their physician
particularly if they are taking prescription or over-the-counter-medications
or supplements. Women who are pregnant or breast feeding and children
should also consult with there physician prior to taking any new
supplements. There have been no significant side effects reported
with the use of Maca at the time of this writing. |
General
Herbal Information
