Tuesday, 31 May 2011

Health Benefits of Maca ( By Dennis Baxter )

                                                         Author : Dennis Baxter
                                                


     Maybe you've never heard of Maca. It's also known as Maka, Peruvian ginseng, maino and, officially, Lepidium meyenii. In fact, it's a type of mustard! Since the 1990s, Maca-mania has been gathering momentum - first in the USA and now around the world. Maca is not a drug; it's a food. But it's a food that it works as an adaptogen - and that means it has beneficial effects.Big claims are being made about this South American product, and in Norway it's available by prescription only. It's probably best known as an aphrodisiac, but Maca does far, far more than enhance the libido. It is used to:

  • increase brain clarity
  • boost energy levels in convalescents and sportspeople
  • help sufferers of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
  • provide relief during times of physical or mental stress
  • treat menopausal problems
  • treat PMT and associated menstrual problems
  • increase sperm count
  • support and balance the hormone system
  • support the immune system
  • rebalance mineral deficiencies


So, what is an adaptogen?

This term comes from 'natural' medicine, and describes something which works by raising our body's resistance to various forms of stress. Maca is an adaptogen which works on the endochrine (hormone) system. And, though that might sound like a grandiose claim, it has scientific backing from a number of lab studies.


What do the Maca studies show?

Research findings include Maca's ability to normalise hormones (including testosterone and oestrogen). Through this action, it can improve things as diverse as sperm motility, energy levels and our ability to "think straight". It has a balancing effect on our adrenal glands and improves our sense of wellbeing. It works in a completely different way from other natural menopause and PMT remedies and can help the full range of associated symptoms.


And that's not all...

As a food, Maca is packed with exceptional nutritional properties. It contains B and C vitamins, carbohydrates, amino acids, minerals (especially calcium), sterols, proteins, fibre, macronutrients and more.


What forms does it come in?

Maca comes in various forms, including powder, drops and pills.


Is it okay for everyone?

Don't take Maca if you have a thyroid problem. It's also best avoided if you are pregnant or are breastfeeding, simply because there is a lack of scientific data in these areas to date.


Are there any side-effects?

No, and no interactions with medicines either.
Dennis Baxter is an independent health writer and editor from New Zealand. He is a big fan of Maca (Peruvian Ginseng) which he buys online from Healthpost.co.nz.

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