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Organic Gelatinized Maca

Also known as: Lepidium meyenii, Lepidium peruvianum, Maca, Peruvian maca, Andean maca

Overview

Maca (*Lepidium meyenii*) is a biennial herbaceous plant native to the Andes Mountains, traditionally used for its nutritional and medicinal properties. It is commonly used to enhance fertility, libido, energy, and alleviate menopausal symptoms, with potential benefits in sexual health, mood improvement, and metabolic regulation. Maca contains bioactive compounds like macamides, macaenes, and glucosinolates, with chemical composition varying based on ecotypes and processing methods. Research on maca is growing but still limited, with most evidence from preclinical studies and small-scale human trials. The quality of evidence varies, but systematic reviews and meta-analyses are providing more robust insights. Gelatinized maca, processed to remove starches, may have improved bioavailability compared to raw maca.

Benefits

Maca has shown potential benefits in several areas. A systematic review and meta-analysis indicated that maca had positive effects on erectile function (EF) in men with mild erectile dysfunction (MD 1.13, 95% CI 0.64 to 1.61, p = 0.01). A case report also showed improvements in menstrual regularity, ovulation, and hormonal balance in a woman with PCOS using a concentrated gelatinized maca formulation. Additionally, studies suggest maca may improve libido and sexual desire in both men and women, although more research is needed. Some evidence suggests maca may help alleviate menopausal symptoms and improve energy levels and mood, particularly in young adult females and individuals living at high altitudes. Benefits can be noticed within a few weeks to months.

How it works

Maca's bioactive compounds, such as macamides and glucosinolates, are believed to interact with various biological pathways, including neuroprotection, anti-inflammatory, immunoregulation, and antioxidant effects. Maca may influence the endocrine system by affecting hormone levels, such as LH/FSH ratio and estradiol. It also has potential effects on the cardiovascular system, gastrointestinal health, and cognitive function. The exact molecular targets are not fully elucidated but are thought to involve interactions with steroid hormone receptors and other cellular signaling pathways. Gelatinized maca may have improved bioavailability compared to raw maca.

Side effects

Maca is generally considered safe with rare adverse effects. Mild gastrointestinal side effects such as bloating, gas, and stomach discomfort may occur. There is limited data on uncommon side effects, but they are not commonly reported in the literature. No significant rare side effects have been documented in the available literature. It is unclear whether maca interacts with any medications, and caution is advised, especially for individuals on hormone therapies or other medications. There are no well-documented contraindications, but it is recommended to avoid use during pregnancy and breastfeeding due to lack of evidence on safety. Individuals with medical conditions or taking medications should consult a healthcare professional before using maca supplements.

Dosage

Typical dosages used in studies range from 1.2 to 3 grams per day. Gelatinized maca may be more effective due to its improved bioavailability. There is no established maximum safe dose, but doses up to 3 grams per day have been used in studies without significant adverse effects. There is no specific timing recommendation, but it is generally advised to take maca consistently as part of a daily regimen. Gelatinized maca is often recommended due to its potentially improved bioavailability compared to raw maca. Processing methods, such as gelatinization, may enhance absorption, but specific data is limited.

FAQs

Is maca safe to use?

Maca is generally safe, but long-term studies are lacking, and interactions with medications are unclear. Consult a healthcare professional, especially if pregnant or breastfeeding.

When should I take maca?

There is no specific timing recommendation, but consistency in daily intake is advised for optimal results.

How long before I see results?

Benefits can be expected within a few weeks to months, depending on the specific use, such as improved libido or menstrual regularity.

Is maca a hormone?

Maca is not a hormone itself but may influence hormone levels. It is not a cure-all for sexual health issues but may have beneficial effects when used appropriately.

Research Sources

https://www.gavinpublishers.com/article/view/concentrated-gelatinized-proprietary-phenotype-formulation-of-lepidium-peruvianum-maca-positively-impacts-polycystic-ovarian-syndrome-pcos-premenstrual-syndrome--pms-dysmenorrhea-and-hormone-levels-for-fertility-optimization-a-case-report – This case report highlights the positive impact of a concentrated gelatinized maca formulation on a woman with PCOS. Over two years, the patient experienced improvements in menstrual regularity, ovulation, and hormonal balance, suggesting potential benefits for women with PCOS.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38440178/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis examined the effects of maca on erectile function. The analysis of two RCTs with 79 participants showed a significant improvement in erectile function, indicating that maca may be beneficial for men with mild erectile dysfunction.
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/322511 – This article provides an overview of maca, discussing its potential benefits and uses. It highlights maca's traditional use for enhancing fertility, libido, and energy, while also noting the need for more research to confirm these effects.
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/benefits-of-maca-root – This article reviews the potential health benefits of maca root. It discusses maca's potential to improve libido, energy, and mood, while also noting the importance of consulting a healthcare professional before using maca supplements.
https://oss.jomh.org/files/article/20230130-20/pdf/JOMH15305.pdf – This comprehensive review discusses the diverse bioactive metabolites in maca and their potential benefits in sexual health, fertility, menopausal symptoms, and metabolic regulation. The review highlights the need for more robust human studies to confirm these effects.