It might sound weird like chimichanga, but eating one? It might cause some people to double take; however, unlike chimichanga, the maca root is healthier and in fact, it is nature’s natural form of Viagra.
If you are curious and want to learn more about nature’s gift, please read on.
The maca has gained quite a lot of attention not only because it is good for the body but also for its aphrodisiac abilities. Women who have severe menopausal symptom find relief when taking the plant. Not only does it decrease the symptoms but it also helps improve sexual desire not only for women but also for men.
- The plant helps regulate menstrual cycle.
- It helps improve and regulate the endocrine system’s functions.
The endocrine glands secrete hormones that helps regulate the body’s metabolic functions such as libido, digestion, fertility, energy level, brain function as well as the nervous system. The hormones play an important role as it helps prevent serious health conditions. The maca plant helps the gland by balancing out the hormones that is secreted.
- It helps regulate the body’s metabolism.
- Helps build muscle tissue
- Can be used as a safe alternative to steroids
- Helps increase fertility level
- Helps promote healthy bones and teeth
- Prevents and reduces hair loss
As the maca plant is rich in zinc it helps increase tissue oxygenation and improve normal hair development.
- Slows down aging
- Increase testosterone level
- Increase and boost the body’s immune system
- Reduces LDL cholesterol while increasing HDL
- Promotes pancreas and thyroid glands
- An excellent energizer without caffeine
- Improves the circulatory system
- Faster healing of wounds
- Reduces anemia
The maca plant does not contain any hormone but affects the endocrine system in such a way as to produce the required hormones to sustain and promote optimal health development.
Side Effects of the Maca Plant
During pregnancy and breastfeeding, Although there are no studies that indicate any side effects for women who are breastfeeding, there are no studies showing the opposite; as such, it is important to stay safe and for women who are pregnant or breastfeeding to not consume the maca plant.
There are also no studies showing its benefits or side effects to kids and as such, it is best not to give maca to children.
Due to the maca’s potency and ability to increase energy levels, it can be harder for people to fall asleep. Taking the supplement in the morning would give you the perk up needed without any problems of staying awake at nighttime.
Taking the maca might also lead to gas and diarrhea. As the maca is rich in fiber, it would take some time for the body to adjust to the added fiber but this will disappear once the body adjusted fully.
People with hypertension should consume the maca sparingly as the plant is rich in sodium, which can worsen the condition. That said the plant is also rich in potassium, which can lower down the chances of hypertension. The lack of sufficient evidence concerning this should be considered especially for people who are predisposed to hypertension.
As the maca stimulates hormones, it can affect the body’s insulin level and as such should not be taken by people who have diabetes. That said, people who are not taking any medication might find the maca beneficial as it lowers the blood glucose level.
People diagnosed with thyroid conditional should not consumed maca as it is high in iodine content and could worsen the condition.
Before taking any supplements or medication, it is best to consult your physician and discuss if taking the supplement is safe for you.
How to Use the Maca
The maca is commonly available as powder, which can be added to smoothies, shakes, plain water and even juice. One can also find it in flour mixture and is uses for baked goods such as breads or cookies. Maca tea is also available.
The maca supplement should only be uses in a span of three months after which, a few months’ break is recommended. If this is your first time, phase your intake to let your body adjust to it. You can try taking it once a week and check your body’s reaction. Gradually increase your intake once the body has adjusted to the supplement.