Contents  : 100 gelatin capsules

• Directions for use: 1 capsule 1-2 times a day, do not exceed the dose.
• Storage conditions:  Store in a dry, dark place out of reach of children.
• NOTES:  Do not exceed the recommended daily dose. Not for use by pregnant or lactating women or children under 7 years of age.
• The product cannot be used as a substitute for a properly varied diet.

Maca – composition

Dried maca root is characterized by a high carbohydrate content, including valuable dietary fiber, which can also be found in large quantities in goji berries. In addition, Peruvian pepper, which is another name for maca, is rich in amino acids (it contains as many as 20 of them) and healthy unsaturated fatty acids (EFAs), antioxidants, including plant sterols and glucosinolates. It also has a lot of micro- and macroelements, including iron, calcium, copper, zinc and potassium, and vitamins (B1, B2, C, E).

Maca root – properties

Maca root has strong adaptogenic properties. It adds energy, increases endurance and resistance to stress. It allows for more effective mental and physical work. It is widely considered a superfood, whose properties are used by athletes, among others. Maca supplementation increases efficiency, and in combination with coenzyme Q10 supplementation, it can bring noticeable benefits to people who are intensively involved in sports.

Maca and libido and reproductive functions

In this respect, the healing properties of maca are already quite well known. The plant was considered an aphrodisiac a long time ago. It turned out that it was quite right. It is known that the raw material affects sexual functions and increases libido, both in men and women. Among other things, studies have been conducted, which show that maca for men can be particularly helpful in the case of erection problems, but not only. It has been shown that maca root improves the quality of sperm, by increasing their motility and their total number. In women, it has a beneficial effect on the ovulation process.

The raw material is also used as a remedy for painful periods and symptoms accompanying menopause, which can be alleviated by using the estrogenic properties of red clover.

Maca – antioxidant effect

The health properties of maca are strongly correlated with its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity. Maca protects cells from damage resulting from the accumulation of free radicals and, like curcumin, can be used in the prevention of the development of neurodegenerative and neoplastic diseases, including colon cancer, myeloid leukemia and liver cancer, which has been confirmed by studies conducted on human cancer cell lines.

Maca – effect on bones

Maca’s effects also include bones, as it turns out this ”superfood” can affect the proliferation and differentiation of bone cells. Although research in this direction was conducted primarily on animals, it is recognized that maca root can be helpful in preventing the development of osteoporosis. In order to provide comprehensive protection for the musculoskeletal system, it is also worth strengthening the joints and using glucosamine preparations.

Maca – neuroprotective activity

When listing the healing properties of maca root, it is impossible to ignore its effect on the nervous system, and in particular the brain. After all, as mentioned earlier, it is a strong adaptogen. Maca affects concentration and improves cognitive functions. Its regular use results in an increase in the pace of learning. In addition, studies conducted on a group of post-menopausal women suffering from depression have shown that maca root improves their mood. When depression is accompanied by fears and anxiety, GABA may prove to be a helpful supplement.

Maca – use

Maca root uses include:

• states of physical and mental exhaustion;
• decreased concentration;
• decreased libido;
• anemia;
• general weakness;
• decreased immunity;
• mood swings.

Due to its high nutritional value, maca root is also a recommended ingredient in the daily diet, providing the right amount of carbohydrates, valuable amino acids and essential unsaturated fatty acids (EFAs).

Maca Root and the Thyroid

Maca root and hypothyroidism – that is the question! Why? Well, maca, like other plants from the cabbage family, can have a negative effect on the thyroid gland. Theoretically, people suffering from hypothyroidism should be careful with it, because the goitrogens contained in maca root interfere with the absorption of iodine and are considered a goitrogenic factor. On the other hand, it is a raw material rich in iodine, which can support the work of this organ. Much depends on the dose used and individual predispositions, but the use of maca root for thyroid diseases should be preceded by a consultation with a doctor.

Maca for weight loss

Supplementation is an important element in the process of losing weight. Choosing the right supplements can significantly support this process. Maca for women and men who want to lose extra pounds can be very useful, which results from several factors. Firstly, maca root regulates blood sugar levels. Secondly, it adds energy and allows for regular physical activity, and thirdly, it lowers the level of adenocorticotropic hormone, high concentrations of which affect weight gain.

Maca – dosage

The dosage of maca root is not strictly defined. It is usually one teaspoon added, for example, to yogurt or a cocktail, although the daily recommended dose can be from 1 to 5 grams per day. It all depends on the preparation and the manufacturer’s instructions and the needs and purpose for which the product is to be used. It is also recommended to take a break from using maca every 2-3 months.

Maca root – contraindications

When it comes to contraindications to the use of maca, it is usually emphasized that people with hypothyroidism should exercise caution, as mentioned above. It is not recommended to use maca root during pregnancy, while breastfeeding, and in children, due to the lack of appropriate research in this direction. People suffering from hypertension should also exercise some caution. In their case, blood pressure may increase and the effectiveness of the drugs used may decrease.

Maca Root – Side Effects

Maca side effects are rather rare. The raw material is generally considered safe, although the scope of research conducted in this regard is rather poor. Sometimes there is mention of the possibility of increased blood pressure, insomnia and hyperactivity, but mainly when maca is used in too large doses.