Description
Maca ( 玛卡 ) is used in TCM to address conditions stemming from deficiencies, particularly of the Kidney and Spleen .
Warm in nature. Sweet and Slightly Bitter in taste. It enters the spleen and kidney meridians.
Maca is used in TCM to address conditions stemming from deficiencies, particularly of the Kidney and Spleen .
Health Benefits
Tonify the kidney Yang and strengthens the essence, strengthens yang, regulates endocrine, improves sexual ability, balances hormones, relieves menopausal symptoms, treats fatigue, regulates blood pressure, lowers blood lipids, nourishes blood and Qi, promotes restful sleep, enhances vitality and boosts immunity.
Reproductive Health and Fertility : Used for infertility, impotence, low sperm count, and low libido in both men and women, as it tonifies Kidney Jing which is the basis of reproductive vitality .
Energy and Stamina : Addresses chronic fatigue, adrenal exhaustion, and weakness by building Qi and Blood .
Hormonal Balance : Helps manage menopausal symptoms like hot flashes and mood swings, and menstrual disorders .
Mental Function : Used to support poor memory and cognitive function, with some traditions suggesting Maca may be particularly effective for this .
Modern Research and Efficacy
While traditional uses are well-established, modern scientific research on Maca presents a mixed but growing picture.
· Sexual Function : Some studies suggest Maca can improve subjective feelings of sexual desire and may help with antidepressant-induced sexual dysfunction, though evidence is not yet conclusive .
· Energy and Mood : Several small studies indicate that Maca may help improve energy levels, reduce fatigue, and positively influence mood .
· Menopausal Symptoms : Research shows potential for reducing menopausal discomforts like hot flashes and night sweats, but larger studies are needed .
· Sperm Quality : Evidence regarding Maca’s ability to improve semen quality is mixed, with some studies showing positive effects and others finding no significant change .
Precautions
Maca is versatile and can be easily incorporated into your routine, but it’s important to be aware of safety considerations.
· An Acute / Heat Conditions : Such as fever, flu, cold, chills, sore throat, inflammation.
· Thyroid Conditions : Use with caution as it contains goitrogens, which might interfere with thyroid function.
· Hormone-Sensitive Conditions : Avoid if you have hormone-sensitive cancers (e.g., breast, ovarian, uterine) or conditions like uterine fibroids.
· Pregnancy and young children : It is not recommended during pregnancy or for young children to use.
· Medical Conditions : If you have hypertension, diabetes, allergy or are on medication (especially blood thinners), Consultation with a doctor is essential. All herbs are not for infants.
** Disclaimer: Not a substitute for medicine. Individual results may vary and it is normal if you feel a bit warm after consumption. Keep hydrated with drinking more water after consumption. Always consult a qualified TCM practitioner or healthcare professional before consume any herbal medicine, especially when you have underlying health conditions.
Common Usage and Preparation
1. Tea / Decoction : Thinly slice or crush, steep in hot water for 5-10 minutes. Can be re-steeped several times. or Simmer on the stove for a richer flavour.
2. Culinary Use : Added to soups and broths for a tonic effect.
3. Powder or Capsules : Ground into a powder and taken with warm water or encapsulated. For convenient daily supplementation in smaller, maintained doses. Typical dosages in studies range from 1.5 to 3 grams per day .
