Maca is a plant which some populations in Peru have used for over thousands of years both as food and medicine. However, in the last few decades, maca has grown in some places around the world and been popular as a natural health remedy for certain health issues, including infertility.
Maca root plant can be ground up into a powder and added to meals or even smoothies. Let’s take a closer look at each of the health benefits maca root powder can give for both women and men. However, please notice that further research is needed for proving these health benefits. Therefore, consultation with your doctor is suggested.
- May Increase Libido
This might be the most popular benefit of maca root. It has the potential to increase libido. There is some scientific evidence supporting this claim.
There was a study conducted in 2015 which found out that taking maca twice daily for 12 weeks slightly helped with sexual dysfunction in women, specifically those who took antidepressants.
However, there was another analysis that found that out of 4 random trials, two of them supported, while two others failed to show significant results at all.
Libido can also be boosted by consuming Goron Tula. What is it? Read health benefits of Goron Tula which is also known as the fruit of fertility.
- May Boost Fertility in Males
Not only for women, maca root powder is also believed to have an impact on men’s fertility. Taking maca root powder may help improve certain aspects of fertility in men.
There are some studies conducted to prove this benefit. Studies have shown that taking maca root power may help improve the concentration of the sperm. For your information, sperm concentration is closely linked to male fertility.
There was another study conducted in 2020 that assessed the effects of maca in 69 men diagnosed with mild low sperm count or reduced sperm motility (the ability of sperm to swim properly).
If you are a man and you have some fertility problems, then you can read these benefits of pumpkin seeds for male fertility. These benefits are based on research, so they should be proven well.
Regarding to fertility, cloves are also good for boosting fertility. After consuming it, then you may be able to experience these health benefits of cloves for fertility.
- May Relieve the Symptoms of Menopause
Menopause is the condition which is commonly experienced by people who menstruate. It is the time when the menstrual periods end permanently.
There are some studies that suggest that maca may benefit people who are going through menopause. It helps by alleviating some symptoms, such as hot flashes, night sweats and interrupted sleep.
- May Boost your Mood and Energy
Though there is limited evidence about this benefit, maca root powder may help boost the mood and energy level in some populations.
There was a study in 2016 which assessed 175 people living at either low or high altitudes. It demonstrated that taking 3 grams of red or black maca per day in 12 weeks improved their mood and energy compared with a placebo.
More research need to be conducted to prove this benefits. However, there is nothing wrong to try.
- May Reduce Blood Pressure
Maca root powder is also believed to have great impact on reducing blood pressure. The same study in 2015 showed that consuming 3.3 gram of maca per day for 12 weeks helped lowering the blood pressure in Chinese postmenopausal women.
Do you know that ginger tea is also beneficial for blood pressure? Read the complete health benefits of ginger tea for blood pressure and start brewing one now.
- Some other Potential Health Benefits
Besides those potential health benefits, consuming maca root powder may also be beneficial to reduce sun damage, fight free radicals, improve cognitive skills (learning and memory). However, once again, further and more research is needed to strengthen these claims. That’s why if you wish to have those health benefits, you’d better consult with your doctor.
Consuming maca is not associated with any health risks though and is unlikely to cause any side effects in moderate doses. However, due to its impact on hormones, people with thyroid problems are suggested to avoid consuming maca. People when undergoing treatments are also suggested to avoid consuming this.
If you are exploring some fruits and vegetables that are beneficial for your health, you can also consider reading these health benefits of bamboo shoot, which is known as the king of vegetables and health benefits of citrus fruit for immune system. Maintaining a good health is essential for your life!