Maca
The root of the Maca plant from Peru, this is another herb that has been used for over 2000 years as a treatment for male sexual problems. It has been and still is used for many other ailments and as a nutrient rich food containing fiber, amino acids, and essential fatty acids.
Maca has received lots of attention recently, and researchers have begun to study it.
Aphrodisiac
To date, the only reported sexual enhancement benefit
of Maca that has been documented by research is its aphrodisiac properties. As I mentioned above, other studies are in progress.
Studies at the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center reported libido improvement in both animals and humans. Limited human studies have also shown maca might help improve libido in men as well as sperm formation and movement.
A 2002 study published in Andrologia which tested three groups of recipients reported that 40 percent of men who took maca supplements for three months had an increase in sexual desire. One group took 1,500 mg daily, another took 3,000 mg daily, and the third took a placebo. At weeks eight and twelve, 40 percent of the men taking maca reported more sexual desire.
The placebo group did not report an increase. Both doses of maca produced the same positive results, so the lower dose is probably plenty.
Fertility
Maca also reportedly produces a significant increase in sperm count, motility, and semen in comparison with a placebo group, and it has been used to increase stamina and strength.
Prostate Health
Drugs.com published a report that claimed animal studies have shown that maca reduced enlargement of the prostate by altering androgen receptors in the prostate and preventing the binding of hormones that fuel prostate growth. I’ve tried this myself, and it is the best prostate health herb I know of! Remember that maca is a food. You can take as much as you need to get the job done!
I suggest combining maca with an adaptogen such as ashwagandha, ginseng, or basil for ED and stinging nettle for prostate problems.
Dosage
Maca supplements are available from several reputable sources. Start with the dosage on the bottle. Maca is used as a food and people in Peru eat it as a staple. I am not aware of published overdose information. The only dosage restriction I have read warned that very large doses might cause increased heart rate and nervous energy.
Raw Maca powder=3 to 9 grams per day.
Maca extracts=one forth to one half teaspoon.
Warnings and Side Effects
Maca contains compounds that may cause reduced hormone production by the thyroid.