Maca for PCOS

Having exploded in popularity in recent years, maca root now appears in conversations surrounding polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS).

And according to recent studies and research, it probably should.

So let’s explore maca root, and how it may benefit any woman who’s suffering with PCOS.

What Is Maca Root?

Maca is a Peruvian plant grown in the Andes mountains that is a common ingredient in Peruvian cooking.

It’s said to have an earthy, nutty, butterscotch-like flavour - yum! (if you’re into that).

It belongs to the family of cruciferous vegetables such as cauliflower, broccoli, kale, and cabbage.

However, aside from its culinary uses, maca can also be processed and commercialised as a pharmaceutical because of its organic and biological nature.

In fact, Peruvians have been using maca root as a medicinal tool for centuries either in the form of its natural state, maca powder, or maca capsules.

Traditionally, it has been used to boost fertility, energy, stamina, and sex drive.

This is because of maca’s highly nutritious content; roughly 28 grams of it contains 20 grams of carbohydrates, 4 grams of protein, 2 grams of fiber, 1 gram of fat, 133% of the RDI Vitamin C, 85% of the RDI copper, 23% of the RDI iron, 16% of the RDI potassium, 15% of the RDI Vitamin B6 and 10% of the RDI manganese.

How Does Maca Root Work?

Like ashwagandha, maca is an adaptogenic herb, which can be defined as agents that support the body’s ability to accommodate varying physical and emotional stresses.

Adaptogens are thought to restore balance in the hypothalamic, pituitary, and adrenal glands; particularly when the body over or under-produces hormones.

This is considered, according to the Whole World Botanicals Report, to be through the plant sterols maca produces, which stimulate the endocrine system.

Within the Report it also states that these sterols improve ovarian, testicular, thyroid and pancreatic function.

Ultimately, if the endocrine system is functioning well, particularly the hypothalamus, pituitary, and adrenal glands, then the effects of PCOS can be lessened.

And that is the goal, of course.
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