A Beginner's Guide to Maca for Hormone Balancing 2022

It is necessary to have a fundamental understanding of how maca works, the numerous varieties that are available, and what to expect from this herb before you can take it for hormone balance. Everything you need to know about this popular hormone-balancing herb will be covered in this article.

Here’s a quick look at why maca is worth your attention before we dive into the specifics:

The hypothalamus and pituitary glands are supported by maca, which helps keep hormones in check. Maca is able to have a wide range of good impacts on our hormones since these two glands regulate the hormones that are produced by other glands (such as the ovaries and adrenals).

We hope this post will help newbies and seasoned users alike get the most from the maca plant with the following information.

The mechanism of action of maca.
When and how to take maca. How to take maca.
When to stop taking maca.
To find the best maca powder and vitamins.

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Table of Contents

WHY IS MACA SO EFFECTIVE AT HELPING YOU MANAGE YOUR HORMONES?

It has long been utilised in Peru for both male and female hormone support because of its adaptogenic properties. There is still a lot of work to be done to understand exactly how maca affects hormones, but here are a few things scientists do know about how maca works.

The Role of Hormones

The hypothalamus and pituitary are thought to benefit from maca’s effects.

The hypothalamus is commonly referred to as the “master gland,” however both of these glands are located in the brain.[1]

hypothalamic pituitary communication is the origin of the word.

The pituitary gland receives messages from other glands, such as the thyroid, adrenals, and ovaries, based on these signals.

The hormones produced by these other glands are influenced by the signals they get from the pituitary.

Clearly, the hypothalamus and pituitary play a significant function in the endocrine system. Maca has an effect on hormone production throughout the body by supporting these two glands.

Secondly, alkaloids.

Alkaloids, which are abundant in maca, have been reported to improve rat fertility.

The hypothalamus-pituitary route is where these alkaloids are able to accomplish this.

Adiponectin, a hormone produced by the pituit

There are sterols in maca that the body uses to support healthy adrenal, ovarian, testicular, thyroid, and pancreatic and pineal gland function.

No wonder maca is utilised for so many various ailments and situations, given that it affects the master gland in the endocrine system.

PMS.
Fertility that comes from inside.
The act of having sex.
Bone health.
Symptoms of menopause and post-menopause.
Weakness and lack of vitality.
Supporting the body’s natural response to stressful situations.
Depression.
Because it’s an anti-aging tonic
This study from the International Journal of Biomedical Science provides more information on all of the above.

Hormones and Maca, Colors and Supplements:

Colors of Maca

Even while maca comes in a variety of hues, the most widely available are the bright yellow, deep red, and deep black.

Most commonly, yellow maca is advised as a daily supplement because of its abundance.

Peruvian shamans regard crimson and black maca as more sacred because they are less common. In addition, red maca is usually associated with feminine energy, whilst black maca is associated with male energy.

It is because of these energy linkages that red maca is frequently suggested for women (particularly for fertility) while black maca is frequently recommended for men (especially for fertility).

Another thing to consider is that:

There are some nutritional distinctions between maca’s varied colours. The most glucosinolates, for example, are found in red maca, followed by black and yellow macas. All cruciferous veggies include glucosinolates, sulfur-rich chemicals. Glucosinolates can be particularly beneficial for the correct metabolism of oestrogen.
Those who are sensitive to red and black maca may prefer the gentler yellow variety.
Only the skin is affected by maca’s varied hues. They all turn off-white to pale yellow when peeled.
On the basis of the foregoing, I personally prefer the milder stimulant properties of yellow maca or tricolour maca (discussed in greater detail below).

Supplement Types of Maca

A powdered substance

You can buy powdered maca in either one of the three hues, or you can get multicoloured maca, which has all three colours. There are more yellow maca in the tricolour than red or black maca.

Raw or gelatinized maca (called cooked maca – there is no actual gelatin in it) is available.

Gelatinized maca is healthier than raw maca if you have digestive troubles because it’s easier to absorb. Peruvians, on the other hand, eat maca cooked, rather than raw. It’s probably a good idea to follow in their footsteps because they’ve been using maca for a longer period of time.
Smoothies, oatmeal, heated milk, and desserts can all be made with the powder.

Capsules

There are two types of capsules: those that contain maca powder and those that include maca extract.

Tincture

Maca root has been extracted into a liquid form by soaking it in a solvent (such as alcohol or vegetable glycerin). Extraction of the therapeutic components of herbs is possible thanks to the solvents used.

How much MACA should I take for hormone support?

For hormone support, the amount of maca needed varies greatly from person to person (s).

SSRI-induced sexual dysfunction may be alleviated by taking 1.5 and 3 grammes of maca per day, respectively, according to one study (antidepressant drugs). The larger the dosage, the more noticeable the results were.

Maca’s effects on postmenopausal women were examined in a second trial that used 3.5 grammes of maca per day. Libido and psychological problems related with menopause were improved by taking this amount.

Maca has been studied in humans at doses ranging from 1.5g to 3g per day (about 12 TBSP – 1 TBSP). Check the label to see how much you’re getting in each serving of maca powder, pills, or tincture.

Having said that, it’s important to consult with your doctor, naturopath, or herbalist to determine the dosage that’s ideal for you.

You should also take breaks when taking maca due of its adaptogenic properties. As a broad rule of thumb, adaptogens can be used as follows:

weekly one-day-off schedule.
after six weeks of consistent use, take a week off.
After six months of consistent use, take a month off.

TIME OF DAY AND MENSTRUAL CYCLE PHASE: WHEN TO TAKE MACA During what time of the day

It’s recommended to take maca in the morning because it’s an energetic plant.

Additionally, this will ensure that you are able to reap its energising benefits throughout the day without worrying about interrupting your sleep.

The beginning of the menstrual cycle

Because maca is a whole food, some experts claim it can be taken at any time of the month, even during menstruation.

Many others, though, advise simply taking it for a few days a month.

In this situation, a healthcare expert who is knowledgeable about this plant and how you want to take it is essential.

They will be able to customise a maca consumption plan for you.

MACA BALANCES HORMONES IN A MEDICALLY DEFINED AMOUNT OF TIME.

Benefits can be seen in as little as two weeks with the use of maca, or it can take longer to see results (several months). For instance:

Postmenopausal women who took maca for six weeks saw an improvement in both psychiatric problems and reduced libido, according to one study (source).
After only two weeks of maca use, another study on men found a rise in their desire for sexual encounters (source).
After four months, a study on men found that maca had an effect on sperm production and motility (source).
The time it takes for maca to start working varies from person to person due to the fact that it can address so many different problems.

Frequently Asked Questions About MACA AND HORMONAL DISHARMONY

Is it safe to take progesterone and maca at the same time?

Premenopausal women taking maca saw an increase in progesterone levels, according to a research (source). If you’re thinking about taking maca together with progesterone, talk to your physician first.

Is it possible to make coffee more flavorful by including maca?

Maca is a naturally energetic root, despite the fact that it lacks caffeine. As a result, some people may find the combination of it and coffee to be too stimulating.

Making a maca drink instead of coffee would be a better choice because caffeine tends to overstimulate the adrenals. You’ll feel more energised as a result without putting additional strain on your adrenal glands.

Maca, cacao powder, and mezquite in this “coffee” blend make an invigorating, caffeine-free beverage.

Do headaches and other negative effects occur after taking maca?

Maca has been known to produce headaches and digestive problems in some people.

If you’re concerned about your thyroid’s ability to absorb Iodine, you may want to avoid maca because of its cruciferous vegetable nature. When glucosinolates (compounds found in cruciferous vegetables) are taken in large quantities, this effect may occur in certain persons. That being said, it’s unclear if maca, in and of itself, has this impact (source).

CONCLUSION

One thing is certain: maca may assist your endocrine system and help you feel more balanced, regardless of the hue or form you utilise.

You should always check with your doctor before using any herbal supplement, supplement, or medication, as with any other herbal supplement.