What Are the Benefits of Royal Maca?

Royal Maca is a brand-name, capsulated herbal supplement that contains sun-dried, precooked maca powder. Maca powder is extracted from the root of the maca plant, which is most commonly found in South America, especially Peru. Maca root has been used by the Incas for hundreds of years for its potential health benefits. As with all herbal supplements, talk with your doctor before using Royal Maca, or any supplement containing maca powder, to make sure it is safe for you to use.

Sexual Health

Maca root has been used as a sexual virility aide for hundreds of years. Royal Maca and maca powder are commonly used to treat symptoms of sexual dysfunction. According to the website NaturalNews, maca supplementation increases sperm count and reduces enlarged prostates in men, and it also can increase sexual functioning and libido, reduce anxiety and treat erectile dysfunction.

Cognitive Effects

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Maca root extract may help improve some of the symptoms associated with depression as well as improve mental functioning. According to a 2006 study published in the Boston Medical Center's journal "Complimentary and Alternative Medicine," mice that received three different species of maca for three weeks showed signs of improved latent learning during a water-finding task. The researchers concluded that not only does maca have a positive effect on learning, it also has anti-depressant activity, which could have human applications.

Mineral Support

In addition to containing maca root extract, Royal Maca supplements also contain other minerals, including polypeptides, calcium, magnesium, potassium, and other compounds that have a wide variety of nutritional benefits. Getting adequate amounts of minerals in your diet is important for preventing a mineral deficiency, which can impair bodily functions, according to the book, "Nutrition for Health, Fitness, and Sport." Royal maca also contains amino acids, which are essential to human health.

Precautions

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There is limited scientific data regarding the potential side effects and health risks associated with maca and herbal supplements containing maca root extract. However, according to the website Drugs.com, no serious side effects associated with maca supplementation have been found. Due to a lack of research, maca is not recommended for women who are pregnant or lactating. A compound in maca called glucosinolate may increase your risk of developing goiter if you have a diet that is low in iodine and if you suffer from a thyroid condition. Always talk to your doctor before taking any supplement.