What Does Maca Powder Do: Maca Root Extract VS Powder

Maca, a root vegetable native to Peru, has gained significant popularity in recent years due to its numerous health benefits. Available in both powder and extract form, maca has become a staple in many health-conscious individuals' diets. In this article, ACE Biotechnology will delve into the differences between maca root extract and maca powder, explore its potential benefits for men, weight loss, and hormonal balance, and uncover tips to make it more palatable. So, let's dive into the world of maca and discover the wonders it holds.

Understanding Maca: Maca Extract vs. Maca Powder

Maca is a cruciferous vegetable belonging to the Brassicaceae family, and its scientific name is Lepidium meyenii. The plant primarily grows in the high-altitude regions of the Andes in Peru and has been used for centuries for its medicinal properties. Maca root extract and maca powder are derived from the same source, but their preparation methods and properties differ.

Maca root extract is a concentrated form obtained by soaking maca roots in alcohol or water, allowing the bioactive compounds to dissolve and create a potent tincture. On the other hand, maca powder is made by drying the maca roots and grinding them into a fine, versatile powder. Both forms retain the essential nutrients, but the extract is more potent and easier to digest due to the removal of certain fibrous components.

Maca Powder Uses

Maca Powder for Men: A Natural Boost for Vitality

Is maca powder good for men? For centuries, maca has been regarded as a natural aphrodisiac and a tonic for men's overall well-being. It is believed to enhance male fertility, improve sperm quality, and boost libido. Additionally, maca may help alleviate symptoms of erectile dysfunction and improve sexual performance.

Maca's ability to support hormonal balance can lead to increased energy levels, stamina, and reduced fatigue. Regular consumption of maca powder can provide men with the vitality they need to tackle daily challenges with vigor.

Can Maca Powder Help with Weight Loss?

Among the many nutritional benefits of maca powder, weight management stands out as one of the most intriguing aspects. Maca is a low-calorie food rich in essential nutrients, making it an excellent addition to a balanced diet.

Furthermore, maca may contribute to weight loss indirectly by supporting hormonal balance and reducing stress levels. Balanced hormones and reduced stress can curb emotional eating and cravings, aiding in weight management efforts.

Balancing Hormones with Maca Powder

Does maca powder help balance hormones? Hormonal imbalances can lead to a range of health issues, including irregular menstrual cycles, mood swings, and fertility problems. Maca powder contains essential compounds that may support hormonal balance in both men and women.

The adaptogenic properties of maca help the body adapt to stress and stabilize hormone levels, promoting overall well-being. It acts on the endocrine system, which controls hormone production, and helps regulate hormonal fluctuations.

Optimal Daily Intake of Maca Root Powder

How much maca root powder per day? Determining the right amount of maca root powder to consume is essential to experience its health benefits optimally. The recommended daily intake of maca root powder varies depending on individual needs and health goals.

As a general guideline, it is advisable to start with a small dosage, typically around one teaspoon (approximately 5 grams) per day, and gradually increase it to two to three teaspoons (10-15 grams) daily if desired effects are not achieved.

Maca Extract Uses

Boosting Energy and Endurance With Maca Extract

Maca extract is often used by athletes and fitness enthusiasts due to its potential to boost energy and endurance. A study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology found that cyclists who took maca extract for 14 days improved their time-trial performance and sexual desire (Stone et al., 2009).

Enhancing Mood With Maca Extract

Maca extract has been associated with improved mood. It contains flavonoids, which are thought to be partly responsible for these psychological benefits. A review of four clinical trials in menopausal women found that maca helped to reduce anxiety and depression symptoms (Brooks et al., 2008).

Supporting Fertility With Maca Extract

Maca extract has been used for centuries to enhance fertility. Research suggests that it may improve semen quality in both fertile and infertile men without affecting hormone levels (Gonzales et al., 2002).

Improving Sexual Health With Maca Extract

Maca extract is perhaps best known for its potential to boost libido and improve sexual function. A review of randomized clinical trials found evidence that maca improves sexual desire after at least six weeks of ingestion (Shin et al., 2010).

Alleviating Menopause Symptoms With Maca Extract

Maca extract may help to alleviate common symptoms of menopause, such as hot flashes, night sweats, sleep disruptions, and mood swings. A study published in the International Journal of Biomedical Science found that maca extract helped to balance hormone levels in menopausal women, reducing the severity and frequency of hot flashes (Meissner et al., 2006).

Supporting Bone Health With Maca Extract

Maca extract may also support bone health. A study in rats found that those treated with maca extract showed significantly higher bone density than those in the control group (Zhang et al., 2006).

How To Choose Maca Root Extract VS. Maca Powder？

Choosing between maca root extract and maca powder depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you want a potent, concentrated form of maca that you can take in small doses, the extract may be the best choice. It is also a good option if you are targeting specific health issues, such as menopause symptoms or sexual dysfunction.

On the other hand, if you prefer a whole food supplement that retains all the nutrients of the raw root, maca powder may be the better option. It is also more versatile in terms of use, as it can be added to a variety of foods and drinks.

Choosing the Best Color Maca Powder

Which color maca powder is best? Maca root comes in various colors, each offering slightly different benefits. The three most common types are yellow, red, and black maca. While the nutritional content is similar, some people may find specific variations more effective for their individual needs.

Yellow maca is considered the mildest in flavor and is often preferred for beginners. Red maca is slightly sweeter and has a more robust taste, while black maca is known for its malty flavor and is often favored for enhancing endurance and stamina.

In conclusion, both maca root extract and maca powder have their unique benefits and uses. It is important to choose a product that is high-quality and sourced from reputable maca extract suppliers to ensure you are getting the most out of your maca supplement. As a professional botanical extract company, Ace Biotechnology provides quality organic maca powder and extract for customers worldwide. Feel free to contact us at any time.

Reference：

Brooks, N. A., Wilcox, G., Walker, K. Z., Ashton, J. F., Cox, M. B., & Stojanovska, L. (2008). Beneficial effects of Lepidium meyenii (Maca) on psychological symptoms and measures of sexual dysfunction in postmenopausal women are not related to estrogen or androgen content. Menopause, 15(6), 1157-1162.

Gonzales, G. F. (2002). Effect of Lepidium meyenii (MACA) on sexual desire and its absent relationship with serum testosterone levels in adult healthy men. Andrologia, 34(6), 367-372.

Gonzales, G. F. (2012). Ethnobiology and Ethnopharmacology of Lepidium meyenii (Maca), a Plant from the Peruvian Highlands. Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2012.

Gonzales, G. F., Cordova, A., Vega, K., Chung, A., Villena, A., & Gonez, C. (2002). Effect of Lepidium meyenii (MACA) on sexual desire and its absent relationship with serum testosterone levels in adult healthy men. Andrologia, 34(6), 367-372.

Meissner, H. O., Kapczynski, W., Mscisz, A., & Lutomski, J. (2005). Use of gelatinized maca (lepidium peruvianum) in early postmenopausal women. International journal of biomedical science: IJBS, 1(1), 33.=

Shin, B. C., Lee, M. S., Yang, E. J., Lim, H. S., & Ernst, E. (2010). Maca (L. meyenii) for improving sexual function: a systematic review. BMC complementary and alternative medicine, 10(1), 1-6.

Stojanovska, L., Law, C., Lai, B., Chung, T., Nelson, K., Day, S., … & Haines, C. (2015). Maca reduces blood pressure and depression, in a pilot study in postmenopausal women. Climacteric, 18(1), 69-78.

Stone, M., Ibarra, A., Roller, M., Zangara, A., & Stevenson, E. (2009). A pilot investigation into the effect of maca supplementation on physical activity and sexual desire in sportsmen. Journal of ethnopharmacology, 126(3), 574-576.

Zhang, Y., Yu, L., Ao, M., & Jin, W. (2006). Effect of ethanol extract of Lepidium meyenii Walp. on osteoporosis in ovariectomized rat. Journal of ethnopharmacology, 105(1-2), 274-279.