Maca is a root vegetable that is widely used for medicinal purposes and can be found in powder and various supplemental forms. Claims of its benefits include increased energy and moods,sexual enhancement, immune system function and disease-fighting properties. Maca is used to treat conditions such as osteoporosis, stomach cancer and stomach ulcers, erectile dysfunction, depression, leukemia, AIDS, HIV and tuberculosis. Maca is considered safe for children in normal food amounts; however, use of supplements in children has not been deemed safe, according to an August 2008 article on the eMedTV website by pharmacist Kristi Monson.
Erectile Dysfunction
Erectile dysfunction (ED or impotence) is a fairly common disorder among men and most commonly among older men. The condition is described as a difficulty maintaining an erection and was once thought to be psychological or age-related, according to the Mayo Clinic. Modern theories indicate the cause of erectile dysfunction is more likely physical than psychological and age may not be a factor, as many men in their 80s are able to become erect. Because Maca is thought to increase libido, sexual performance and stamina, Maca powder may be used to treat erectile dysfunction. Other herbs that are used to treat erectile dysfunction include yohimbie, ginkgo, ginseng and epimedium (horny goat weed).
PMS/Menopause
PMS (premenstrual syndrome) affects an estimated three of every four menstruating women in some way, according to the Mayo Clinic. Symptoms of PMS include any or all of the following: breast tenderness, food cravings, fatigue, mood swings, depression and irritability. These symptoms precede a women's menstrual cycle and may range in intensity from mild to severe. Another challenging condition women face later in life is menopause. Menopause signals the end of menstruation and fertility and is considered to have occurred after 12 months with no menstrual period, according to the Mayo Clinic. The symptoms of menopause include difficulty sleeping, fatigue, feelings of sadness, thinning hair, increased abdominal fat and hot flashes. Maca powder has been touted for improving moods and assisting with the symptoms of both PMS and menopause, and may therefore be an alternative treatment method. Other treatments for PMS include over-the-counter prescriptions. Menopausal women may treat menopause with hormone therapy, anti-depressants and phytoestrogens, which occur naturally in foods.
Osteoporosis
Osteoporosis is a condition in which the bones become brittle and can easily break when simple stresses like lifting, coughing and light exercises are performed. Low levels of calcium phosphorus and essential minerals can result in osteoporosis. Supplements, exercise and a healthy diet can be beneficial for both preventing osteoporosis and further bone weakening in those with osteoporosis. Maca powder contains sufficient amounts of proteins, fiber, fatty acids, iron and calcium and may therefore be a smart supplement for osteoporosis.
Toronto Naturopath Dr. Rachel Goldgut ND 416-738-6757 Weight Loss, Acupuncture, Fertility www.rachelgoldgutnd.com
Ginger Health Benefits For A Non-Drowsy Alternative, Try Natural Source Gravol® Ginger. Gravol.ca/Natural-Source-Ginger
Mercola Health Products Vitamins, Whey, Krill Oil & Many More, Only at Mercola. Shop Now! www.MercolaShop.com
Read more: http://www.livestrong.com/article/26545-benefits-maca-powder/#ixzz1wYjRXgmW
No comments:
Post a Comment