Maca is a Peruvian plant grown in the Andes mountains.
There is a range of potential benefits of maca root, including:
1. Increasing libido
The most well-known benefit of maca root is its potential to increase libido. There is some scientific evidence to support this claim.
2. Reducing erectile dysfunction
Maca root could also have benefits for people with erectile dysfunction (ED).
A study showed participants that were males with mild ED. Those taking maca root experienced a more significant increase in sexual well-being than those taking a placebo.
3. Boosting energy and endurance
Some athletes and bodybuilders use maca root as a supplement to increase energy and performance. Some evidence exists to support this.
4. Increasing fertility
Another widespread use of maca root is to increase fertility, particularly in men.
A trusted source found some evidence that maca root may increase semen quality in both fertile and infertile men. However, more research is needed.
5. Improving mood
Maca contains flavonoids, which are thought to improve mood and reduce anxiety. A study in 14 postmenopausal women found that maca may reduce feelings of anxiety and depression.
Another study found that maca could reduce symptoms of depression in postmenopausal women.
6. Reducing blood pressure
It is possible that maca root can also help to improve blood pressure.
7. Reducing sun damage
Maca might help protect the skin from UV rays.
8. Fighting free radicals
Maca root also promotes natural antioxidants in the body, such as glutathione and superoxide dismutase.
Antioxidants help to fight off free radicals, which can damage cells in the body. Some people believe antioxidants can help prevent some health conditions, including heart disease and cancer.
9. Reducing menopause symptoms
Some proponents of maca root believe it may help balance levels of the hormone estrogen. During perimenopause, the stage before a woman reaches menopause, estrogen levels fluctuate and cause a variety of symptoms.
One study found that postmenopausal women who took two daily tablets containing maca experienced reduced symptoms, such as hot flashes and night sweats.
10. Improving learning and memory
There is some evidence to suggest that maca can improve learning and memory.
Maca may have benefits for learning and memory performance. Researchers suggested that it could be helpful in treating conditions that affect these processes, such as Alzheimer’s disease.
Maca is not currently associated with any health risks in most people and is unlikely to cause any side effects in moderate doses.
However, due to its effect on hormones, people with thyroid problems should avoid taking maca. It is also better to avoid taking maca when undergoing treatments that modify hormonal levels, such as treatments for breast cancer.