Maca root for men is utilized to improve libido and sexual function, provide energy boost, improve fertility, and reduce sexual dysfunction in men.
But what is maca root for men? Is maca root safe for men? Does it really have positive effects on sexual health? Let’s find out!
What is Maca Root?
Maca is a Peruvian plant also referred to as Peruvian ginseng grown in the highlands of the Andes mountains.
The herb has been utilized for centuries to treat various health conditions thanks to the wide range of maca root for men's benefits and medical properties.
In the past few years, maca root capsules and maca root powder have gained popularity due to their potential medicinal properties and health benefits.
According to Karen Koffler, M.D., from Coral Gables, Florida, maca root is a plant that can thrive in harsh or extreme conditions an indication of how the compound can support health when consumed.
Dr. Koffler further notes that maca root is traditionally consumed in Peru as tea and added to food. In the United States, the extract is mostly found in capsules, powder, or tincture and its consumption can benefit body health in many ways.
However, the question remains is maca root good for men? What does maca root do for men?How Does Maca Root Work to Improve Sexual Function for Men?
Improve Sexual Function for Men/Shutterstock
Bet maca root extract for men has been linked to a number of health benefits including sexual benefits especially in men. The compound is believed to work through different mechanisms to improve men’s sexual health.
Various research found maca root to work to promote fertility in men. Research published in Frontiers in Pharmacology concluded that supplementation of maca root had an effect on sperm count and sperm motility.
Maca root extract supplementation has also been found to help with Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). BPH is a condition characterized by prostate enlargement.
A study published in Review in Urology has revealed that BPH can significantly affect sexual function, which may in turn lead to erectile dysfunction, low sex drive, and reduced sexual satisfaction.
Another health benefit that has been linked to maca root supplementation is boosting libido and energy levels.
According to CNS Neuroscience & Therapeutics, maca root has been found to help alleviate sexual dysfunction and has also been found to have a positive effect on libido.
Research in Evidence-Based Complementary Alternative Medicine has found maca root to be a great adaptogen with promising nutraceuticals in the prevention of various diseases.
It has been found to treat erectile dysfunction, increase sperm count and motility, enhance fertility properties, and boost energy.
What are the Sexual Health Benefits of Maca Root?
Black maca root for men is a rich source of different nutrients like essential amino acids, fiber, vitamin C, calcium, fatty acids, and a number of bioactive compounds with supporting medicinal properties.
Some of the health benefits of taking maca root to support male sexual health have been discussed below with supporting links to scientific research and healthcare experts:
Enhances Libido
One of the benefits of oral consumption of maca root extract is boosted libido in men. A 2010 research that sort to investigate the effect of Lepidium meyenii on sexual dysfunction.
Although the study included small participants, the results show there is strong evidence that the substance can indeed help promote sexual drive, desire, or libido.
According to health expert Cassie Weilder N.D., a registered Naturopathic doctor maca root has shown the ability to boost libido probably because of its ability to lower stress, improve mood, and boost energy.
Improves Fertility
Some studies have suggested the use of maca root to treat fertility and improve sexual health including improving sperm quality and concentration in men.
A research publication in Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine discovered that maca extracts used as a dietary supplement can help improve sperm count and also sperm mortality.
However, according to researchers, the two studies involve small participants and further research involving a larger group of participants may be necessary to further support the evidence.
According to Karen Koffler M.D., integrative medicine from Coral Gables, Florida, consumption of maca root can be connected to high sperm count production. It helps them to continually produce new sperm and curb infertility issues in men.
Reduces Sexual Dysfunction
Maca root has been found to improve sexual function especially those suffering from erectile dysfunction, a common type of sexual dysfunction in men.
A study published in BMC Complementary Medicine Therapies notes that maca may help increase mobility and sperm count and also improve sexual function in healthy humans.
Boosts Energy
Various research studies have linked maca root consumption to increased energy levels. A research study in the Pharmaceuticals Journal notes that supplementation of maca root extract for 12 weeks can help increase energy levels.
A similar study in the European Journal of Medical Research revealed that consumption of maca root can help improve the metabolism rate.
Improves Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (HPH) Condition
Benign prostatic hyperplasia is a condition characterized by prostate enlargement. Research in Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine found that supplementation of maca root may help reduce prostate size, however, more research is required to further establish the effect of maca root on prostate health.
Safety and Potential Side Effects
A number of studies have proved that maca root extract is generally safe for consumption and has no adverse effects. A good number of healthcare experts have also supported maca root powder benefits for men.
One study involving 175 participants found that taking 3 3-gram doses of maca root per day for 3 months was well tolerated with no severe side effects.
However, as much as maca root is considered well tolerated and safe for consumption, Siri Chand Khalsa M.D., an integrative medicine doctor stresses the importance of buying maca root that has been tested for toxicity by a third-party lab.ooja Amy Shah, M.D., Pa New York-based integrative and functional medicine physician and assistant professor at Columbia University, on the other hand, advises starting with a small amount if you are a beginner and increasing the amount slowly as you work your way up to reach the recommended full dose.
However, some studies have revealed that consuming supplements with maca root may have potential side effects which may be severe or mild. A research study in Clinical and Research Information on Drug-Induced Liver Injury has pointed out some side effects including stomach issues and mild headaches.
In general, little is known about the long-term and short-term risks of using maca root. Based on personal feelings, there have been reports of insomnia, gastritis, and moodiness linked to taking maca.
Maca Dosage and How to Take It?
Dosage and How to Take It/Shutterstock
Maca root comes in different forms such as capsules, tablets, powder, and liquid. Unfortunately, there are no guidelines for the suitable use of maca root in any form. Also, there is inadequate evidence to determine an appropriate or standard dose of maca root.
Studies conducted to investigate black maca root benefits for men have used varying amounts with participants under medical supervision.
In most cases, adults use maca root doses of about 1.5-3.5 grams every day through oral administration for 6-16 weeks. However, this may vary depending on the form of maca root being used (liquid, powder, capsule, etc).
Dr. Khalsa recommends taking up to 3 grams of maca root extract because it is considered safe, especially if you are taking it for a period of four months.
However, it is worth noting that in the United States, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates transcription drugs but not supplements. It, therefore, means that some supplements may not reflect what is on the label.
So, it is vital to first talk to a healthcare professional to discuss and determine an appropriate dosage that will effectively meet your health needs.
In general, further research is still needed on the appropriate dosage for specific populations and health needs.
FAQs
What Happens If I Take Maca Root Every Day?
Maca root for men's fertility is believed to be generally safe for consumption as part of your diet.
However, if you are taking it as a supplement, studies have found it to be safe if taken up to 3 grams per day, especially if you are using it for not longer than 4 months.
Does Maca Root Increase Testosterone?
A research study published in the World Journal of Men’s Health showed a statistical difference in testosterone levels between participants who did not take maca root and those who did.
According to a research conclusion, maca root is shown to be a potential candidate for treating individuals with hypogonadism.
Can Maca Root Help Men Perform Better in Bed?
Although there are limited studies to show the efficacy of maca root in improving performance in bed, beetroot and maca for men are still a potential candidate in improving sexual function.
A publication in BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapy has revealed that preparations from Maca root have been shown to improve sexual function in healthy populations.
How Long Does it Take for Maca Root to Work?
How long it takes for maca root preparation to show a positive effect depends on your health needs and what you desire to achieve.
A number of researches have shown visible positive results after 12 weeks of using maca root.
A research study in the Andrologia Journal found that maca root had an effect on sexual desire after 8-12 weeks of treatment.
Who Should Not Take Maca Root?
Breastfeeding and pregnant mothers as well as individuals on medication or with underlying health conditions are advised not to take maca root preparations before consulting a healthcare professional.
Currently, there are no studies to prove whether or not maca root extract is safe for consumption during pregnancy or breastfeeding period.
So, researching and seeking professional health advice on any Maca product before committing to it will go a long way in preventing unforeseen health risks.
Also, if you are on any medication or you have an underlying health condition, it is recommended that you first talk to your doctor or a professional healthcare provider before adding for men maca root energetic face protector to your daily health routine.
When is the Best Time to Take Maca Root for Men Supplement?
While more scientific studies are warranted to confirm the best time to take maca root, a small study conducted involving 175 participants indicates a connection between maca root and energy.
Participants put on maca root treatment for 12 weeks reported increased energy and due to this response maca root is best taken earlier in the morning.
According to Karen Koffler, M.D., an integrative medicine doctor from Coral Gables, Florida, the ideal time to take maca root would be in the morning or before a workout because the extract has reported an increase in energy levels.
Conclusion
While research on the potential health benefits of maca root on men's sexual health is still limited, there is some scientific evidence that suggests taking maca root powder for men or maca root capsules for men can boost some aspects of male sexual health and fertility in certain people.
Best maca root supplement for men has been linked to health benefits like boosting energy, libido, and sexual desire, improving fertility health, and reducing sexual dysfunction.
Nonetheless, scientists still need to extensively research maca root benefits for men before it can be fully recommended as an ideal compound for treating any health symptom or condition.
If you are planning to add any maca preparation to your daily health routine, we recommend first consulting a healthcare professional to help you determine whether or not maca root extract is the right stuff for your health needs.
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