In a nutshell: What is black maca good for?
Black maca, a variant of the maca root, offers several health benefits. Rich in antioxidants, it is good for overall health by combating oxidative stress and inflammation. Additionally, black maca is known for its potential to enhance libido and sexual function, making it popular as a natural aphrodisiac. Furthermore, it may be good for sperm quality and fertility in men, as well as relieve symptoms of menopause in women. Some studies suggest that black maca may also boost energy levels, endurance, and mood, making it a versatile supplement for promoting vitality and well-being.
A Closer look: Erectile function, fertility and other things black maca is good for
Male libido and sexual function
Black maca is popular as a natural aphrodisiac. One of the traditional uses of maca is to encourage breeding in livestock in South America. So it’s not just considered good for sexual function in humans!
This may work because it its unique combination of bioactive compounds. They include amino acids, alkaloids, and fatty acids, which may be good for hormonal balance and blood flow. Some research suggests that black maca may increase levels of testosterone and other sex hormones. People also take it to enhance sperm production and motility, and improve erectile function in both men and women. So far, the only strong scientific evidence of black maca comes from research on animals rather than humans.
52% of men aged 40–70 years say they suffer from some level of erectile dysfunction. Almost one man in 10 claims he is affected severely.
Source: National Institute for Health and Care Excellence
Additionally, black maca’s adaptogenic properties are good for managing stress and anxiety, which usually helps improve sexual desire as well as performance. More studies are needed to fully understand the mechanisms behind black maca’s effects on sexual health. Anecdotal evidence and traditional use, though, support its reputation as a natural aphrodisiac.
Sperm quality and fertility in men
Beyond its potential as a natural aphrodisiac, black maca has been studied for its effects on reproductive health. In men, research suggests that black maca seems to be good for sperm quality. It increases sperm count, motility, and morphology. Scientists think these effects come from black maca’s ability to regulate hormone levels, particularly testosterone, which is of course crucial for sperm production and maturation. Moreover, black maca’s antioxidant properties may help protect sperm cells from oxidative damage, further supporting fertility.
Relief for symptoms of menopause in women
For women, black maca is good for a lot of common menopausal symptoms including hot flushes, night sweats and mood swings. This may be due to black maca’s ability to balance hormone levels, particularly oestrogen, which can decline during menopause. By acting as a natural adaptogen, black maca may also help relieve stress, which makes it good for general health and well-being during peri-menopause. A few studies and anecdotal evidence suggest that black maca holds promise as a supportive supplement for both men’s and women’s reproductive health.
Less inflammation and oxidative stress
Rich in antioxidants, it supports overall health by combating oxidative stress and inflammation. Black maca contains a variety of antioxidants, including polyphenols, flavonoids, and other phytochemicals. These compounds help neutralise harmful free radicals in the body, which can cause oxidative stress.
Oxidative stress occurs when there is an imbalance between free radicals and antioxidants in the body, leading to damage to cells, proteins, and DNA. By scavenging free radicals, antioxidants in black maca help protect cells from damage and reduce inflammation, which is a key factor in many chronic diseases such as heart disease, cancer, and neurodegenerative disorders. Therefore, taking black maca may contribute to overall health and well-being by providing antioxidant support and reducing inflammation throughout the body.
Black maca for better endurance and energy
Some studies suggest that black maca may also boost energy levels, endurance, and mood, making it a versatile supplement for promoting vitality and well-being.
Some research suggests that black maca may exert adaptogenic effects on the body, helping to increase energy levels and combat fatigue. This may be due to its ability to support adrenal function and regulate stress hormone levels, such as cortisol. These hormones are important for energy metabolism and controlling our mood.
Furthermore, black maca has been studied for its potential to improve exercise performance and endurance. Athletes and people seeking to enhance their physical performance may benefit from black maca supplementation due to its reported ability to increase stamina and reduce fatigue during prolonged activity. These effects may be down to black maca’s ability to improve oxygen utilisation and support muscle recovery.
Supporting vitality and positive mood
Moreover, black maca is believed to have mood-enhancing properties, with some users reporting improvements in feelings of well-being, motivation, and mental clarity. This is thought to be linked to black maca’s ability to modulate neurotransmitter levels in the brain, such as serotonin and dopamine, which play key roles in regulating mood and cognitive function. By promoting a balanced mood and reducing feelings of stress and anxiety, black maca may contribute to overall mental and emotional well-being.
What’s the difference between black maca, red maca, and yellow maca?
Red maca, black maca, and yellow maca are different varieties of maca root. Each type of maca contains varying levels of bioactive compounds, which may contribute to their distinct effects on the body. Although each has its own unique properties and potential health benefits, there are also overlapping health benefits.
Red maca, as the name suggests, has a reddish tone. People praise it for its potential to support reproductive health and hormone balance. It’s popularly associated with supporting women’s health.
Black maca, on the other hand, has a darker colour and is renowned for its purported effects on energy levels, mood, and sexual function. It’s the variety commonly used for men’s health and sexual function.
Yellow maca, the most common variety, is popular for its adaptogenic properties which make it a useful support in times of stress. It is good for balancing the adrenal glands and keeping cortisol, adrenaline and other stress-related hormones at healthy levels. This is how it can support overall vitality and well-being.
How to choose the best black maca powder or tablets
Maca is a root vegetable that grows in South America and is a common vegetable in that part of the world. Whilst the taste is fairly pleasant, it’s hard to obtain fresh maca root in the UK and far easier to take as a powdered supplement if you want it every day for its health-giving powers.
Purity and Quality
Look for maca supplements that are made from high-quality, organic maca root to ensure purity and minimise the risk of contaminants.
Extraction Method
Look for supplements that use gentle extraction methods, such as cold-pressing or low-heat drying, to preserve the integrity of the maca’s bioactive compounds.
Concentration level
Dried maca root extract comes in different levels of concentration, from 10:1 to 100:1 being typical. Some of the best maca supplements combine different concentrations to give you more of certain active compounds, but also provide a broad spectrum of “whole herb” benefits.
Black pepper
You could take black pepper separately each time you have your maca supplement to absorb as much of the beneficial nutrients and compounds as possible. But it’s more convenient to look for a good supplement that includes black pepper.
Added yellow maca
This all-round type of maca is best known for its energy-boosting properties and it’s useful to choose a maca powder or capsules with this form added, to enhance the effects of your black maca supplement.
Certifications
Choose supplements that have undergone third-party testing for purity and potency. Look for certifications from reputable organisations like USDA Organic, Non-GMO Project Verified, or NSF International.
Avoid Additives
Avoid supplements that contain unnecessary additives, fillers, or artificial ingredients. Check the ingredient list to ensure that the supplement is free from unwanted additives.
Double-sealed Packaging and Storage
Select supplements that are packaged in dark, opaque containers to protect the maca from light and moisture, which can degrade its potency over time. Store the supplements in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
Independent customer reviews
Research the reputation of the brand manufacturing the maca supplements. Choose brands with a history of producing high-quality, trustworthy products and positive customer reviews.
Conclusion
While more research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms behind these effects, preliminary studies and anecdotal evidence suggest that black maca has the potential to be a versatile supplement for promoting vitality, endurance, and mood stability. As with any supplement, individual responses may vary, and it’s essential to consult a doctor before taking black maca to treat mental health issues, especially if you are taking other medications already.
