The regular maca dosage recommended by nutritionists for most people is 500 mg to 600 mg a day; however, the appropriate dosage for any individual is determined by hormone levels, diet, and health benefits wanted. Ten times that amount is taken by some people, particularly in the South American country of Peru, where maca is a common food staple. Most users experiment with high and low doses while tracking their body’s responses until they calibrate the right amount by trial and error. An error in dosage is generally easy to spot, because weak amounts yield no significant changes in energy or sexual health, while too much can reverse the positive impact of maca and bring extreme lethargy and sexual dysfunction. Some people find keeping a written record of their body’s daily response while increasing or decreasing in 300-mg increments a day is an ideal way to hit to right dosage level.
The maca plant, also called pepperweed and Peruvian ginseng, originated in the Andes Mountains of Peru. The roots of this plant contain protein, carbohydrates, and fatty acids. More significantly, maca contains macamides and macaenes, two rare chemicals which can promote sexual vivacity, according to research where these chemicals have been isolated and studied. Maca is consequently considered an aphrodisiac.
Not only is maca credited for improved sexuality, but it is also lauded for renewed physical vigor in all areas of life. In ancient days, warriors of the Inca tribe took maca before battles for endurance and surges in strength. In modern times, people all over the world eat fresh or dried maca root as well as maca extract in capsule form to reap the same energy boosts.
Foods generally can be taken in copious amounts without harmful side effects, and since maca is considered a food, many claim that there is no possibility of overdose. Some experts disagree, however, saying that once maca accumulates in the body, it can be thwarting, although not toxic. Many nutritionists advise that if a certain maca dosage has been working well but then suddenly stops working, it could be time for a brief hiatus. It is customary for users to stop using maca for a month or at least a week every month so that the daily maca dosage becomes effective again.
Consumers who purchase loose maca powder will need a measuring tool to dole out trial portions each day. For convenience, most buyers opt for powder in capsules that come in 100 mg, 300 mg, and 500 mg maca dosages. These can be taken with meals two or three times a day.
Some people complain that small doses do not work for them. Maca delivers its benefits by balancing hormones in the body; the greater the hormonal imbalance, the more maca needed. Hormones respond to a person’s nutrition level, as well, so people with more balanced nutrition and less energy demand may require less maca.
What Are the Benefits of Maca?
Many people have reported health improvements after maca consumption. The plant is an herbal adaptogen that aids the endocrine system. The endocrine system controls stress hormones via the adrenal glands. When too much stress repeatedly triggers the adrenal glands to produce hormones, an imbalance can occur. The adrenal glands release estrogen, androgens and cortisol. Too much of any of these hormones can aggravate a plethora of conditions.
Perimenopause and Menopause
Women in their late 30s and 40s often experience perimenopause; women in their 50s and 60s experience menopause. The age range is diverse, but the indicators of these conditions are often indistinguishable. Women in either of these seasons of life often experience:
Irregular menses make it challenging to track and effectively manage symptoms. Maca can help balance hormones making for more even menstrual cycles reducing associated discomfort. The herb may support estrogen production. During menopause, when there is a natural drop in estrogen, a boost in this hormone can make a difference in a woman's quality of life. However, increasing estrogen may worsen estrogen-dominant conditions like polycystic ovarian syndrome, uterine fibroids or ovarian cysts.
Libido
Androgens and estrogen levels largely control a person's sex drive. When they are out of whack, libido is one of the first things to suffer. Restoring balance to sex hormones can increase sexual desire in men and women. In menopausal women, the boost in estrogen can reduce vaginal dryness and make intercourse more desirable.
Fertility
Both men and women may find success with fertility after adding this product to their diets. Studies in lab rats have shown better sperm production and performance. Anecdotally, men have described similar results. However, there is insufficient research in humans to confirm these success stories.
Anxiety
Adaptogens may reduce anxiety by controlling cortisol levels. But, new advantages like clearer skin, better sleep and increased libido may also help with nerves. When patients experience less discomfort, some feel more calm and confident. Users have also reported higher energy levels, which can offset anxiety and depression symptoms.
Why Is Maca Beneficial for Health?
This vegetable is similar to other cruciferous plants like cauliflower and broccoli. It contains essential vitamins and minerals like calcium, iron and amino acids. Many who cannot tolerate dairy rely on cruciferous plants for calcium.
How To Use Maca Powder?
Since it grows naturally in Peru, the plant can be challenging to find in other parts of the world. Luckily, health stores sell this superfood in powder or capsule forms. Maca powder has a very mild taste, but it pairs well with flavors like vanilla, chocolate and fruit. The powder is easy to add to your favorite smoothie or health bar recipe. Consume anywhere from 1/2 teaspoon to 1 tablespoon daily. It may take several weeks to achieve noticeable results.
Can You Have Too Much Maca Powder?
Since maca is not a medication, most experts feel it is impossible to overdose. However, every person's body will react differently to herbs. Most find their appropriate dosage through trial and error, and dieticians agree with that approach. Start with a small dose and increase it a little each day. Once you reach an amount that makes you feel good, continue taking that dosage daily.
While overdose is unlikely, some vitamins can build up in your system over time. The positive effects can diminish if you take too much for too long. Most recommend taking a week off once a month from the supplement. Then, add the powder back into your diet. If you notice a decrease in benefits, cut back on your daily amount until you see an improvement.