Maca root, also known as Peruvian ginseng, is a cruciferous vegetable native to Peru, thriving in one of the harshest growing land in the world. The soil contains significant amounts of volcanic minerals and the climate experiences drastic shifts, from intense heat and sunlight, to below freezing temperatures. Still, maca root thrives and has been used by the natives of the land for both food and medicine for thousands of years.

Maca root is believed to be a very versatile herb, adapting to help with many different conditions related to both male and female health. Maca is exceptionally rich in minerals and nutrients, believed to greatly improve endocrine, pituitary, adrenal and thyroid function. Maca is believed to directly assist in hormone regulation in both men and women, without containing any natural or synthetic, itself. Research carried out in 1961 showed that a component of maca root, glucosinolates, directly affect male and female fertility, explaining macas regulatory ability, without the addition of natural or synthetic hormones in the maca itself.

Fertility
Stories relating to the use of maca root to improve fertility can be traced back to as early as the 1500s. After the Spanish Conquest, the Spanish who remained in South America began to experience health problem in both themselves and their livestock. Following the advice of the native Peruvians, the Spanish began to feed themselves and their livestock maca and the improvements that followed were so dramatic, that many of the first written records of the region pertain to the use and benefits of maca root. In fact, the benefits were so great, that many claim that the Spanish in South America began to demand being paid in maca, rather than in gold.

Female reproductive health
Maca root is believed to help the female reproductive system by regulating estrogen in the body. Estrogen levels that are too high or too low at specific points in a woman's menstrual cycle can interfere with normal reproductive functioning, fertility and conception. Excessive estrogen can inhibit the production of progesterone in the luteal phase, and in early pregnancy, which can interfere with the proper implantation of a pregnancy. In some cases, these abnormal levels can cause infertility, difficulty conceiving, irregular menstrual cycles, early miscarriage and difficulty carrying a pregnancy to term.

Male reproductive health
As in women, maca root is believed to promote male reproductive health by regulating and controlling the levels of estrogen in the body. In men, excess estrogen can lead to erectile dysfunction, poor sperm count and motility and decreased libido. Excess estrogen in men is also believed to cause a decreased production of seminal fluid, which is the fluid responsible to protecting and propelling sperm into the woman's body during intercourse. For men, maca root is believed to increase the production of sperm, improve sperm motility, increase the production of seminal fluid to protect and nourish sperm and improve libido.

Menopause
In women experiencing menopause, maca root may help to balance and regulate hormones, as well as reduce the severity of symptoms associated with menopause such as hot flashes, cold sweats, irritability and fatigue. Maca root may be helpful in assisting with the management of menopause-related symptoms.

Depression, mood and mental function
Maca root is believed to reduce the symptoms associated with depression and anxiety while improving mood. This can be especially beneficial for women who suffer from mood disturbances due to menopause or pre-menstrual syndrome. Maca root is also believed to promote improved mental function and clarity and may improve an individual's ability to carry out tasks requiring mental focus.

Energy and fatigue
Maca root is believed to improve energy levels in both men and women, reducing the symptoms of fatigue. This energy boost may be especially helpful among those suffering from chronic fatigue syndrome and other health conditions that may affect energy levels. Maca root is also believed to improve stamina and endurance, helping the body to better cope with physical stress, fatigue and exertion.

Skin
Maca root is believed to assist in ridding the skin of acne and blemishes, as well as reducing the sensitivity of the skin. Individuals who have skin that is especially sensitive to light, heat and cold may find their skin is more resistant and resilient to the effects of sunlight, temperature and wind when using maca root.

Contraindications
Individuals who suffer from thyroid conditions should consult with their healthcare provider prior to using maca root. Men and women with reproductive cancers such as breast cancer, ovarian cancer or testicular cancer should also consult with a healthcare provider prior to using maca root.

Disclaimer: All information presented on this page is intended for informational purposes only. We strongly recommend speaking to a qualified healthcare provider before beginning any herbal supplement.

ORIGIN: PERU