Maca (Lepidium peruvianum chacon) information

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 (return to homepage).