MACA INFORMATION

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Herbnews Friday, November 3, 2000

Penn Herb Company, Ltd. E-mail Newsletter

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In past issues of this newsletter we've looked at some interesting herbs from

South America such as Cat's Claw, Damiana & Pau D'Arco. This week the spotlight

is on Maca, a.k.a. Peruvian Ginseng.

From the Brink of Extinction to our Herbal Apothecary

Once it was grown from Ecuador to Northern Argentina, now its range is

restricted to a few tiny scattered fields, making it seemed doomed to

agricultural oblivion. In fact, by 1982 it was declared to be in danger of

extinction as a cultivated plant. What is the herbal subject of this week's

newsletter....MACA!

What Is Maca?

Maca is the highest-altitude cultivated plant in the world, grown in the

Peruvian Andes at altitudes of 9-11,000 feet. Its radish-like vegetable root is

used fresh or dried for nutritional and medicinal purposes. It reportedly has a

high nutritional value, being rich in carbohydrates, protein, essential

minerals, essential fatty acids and the Vitamins B1, B2, B12, C and E..

How Is It Used?

Maca has been used by Peruvian Indians for thousands of years for a variety of

reasons, but most notably to improve sexual function.

a.. Sexual Function/Aphrodisiac- As an herb that is used to help restore

normal sexual function & desire in both men and women, Maca is being touted as a

natural " Viagra " . It's used to to enhance libido, treat male impotence and other

sexual and reproductive disorders. Interestingly, one source cites a chemical

analysis conducted in 1981 which showed the presence of compounds which have

reputed aphrodisiac properties.

a.. Fertility Enhancer- The Incas used Maca to improve the fertility of their

livestock, which was adversely affected by the altitude and the harsh climate

of their environment (it's been shown that reproductive rates are lower at high

altitudes). Achieving positive results by using Maca in this way, it wasn't long

before these resourceful indigenous people were using the herb themselves as a

fertility enhancer and the conquistadors were following suit.

Maca is traditionally used to strengthen the reproductive organs of both men

and women. In fact, this use was supported clinically as early as 1961 when

researchers discovered that it increased fertility in laboratory studies.

Recent analytical studies has isolated a biologically active compounds that has

been associated with fertility in humans.

a.. Energizer- It is believed that Maca's energizing capabilities come from

its high content of minerals, especially iodine, which is required by the

thyroid to regulate energy levels. It is recommended for increasing energy,

stamina and endurance in athletes (some also use it as an alternative to

anabolic steroids).

OTHER USES: The Peruvian root is also used as an adaptogen, for chronic fatigue,

anemia, to boosts the immune system, help with hormonal imbalances, relieve

menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes, depression and vaginal dryness.

Maca has certainly been valued for centuries and even though we have some

information on its nutritional and medicinal properties, more research is being

conducted. Scientists and even governments are finally turning their attention

more fully to this ancient Inca crop so that it is not lost. This research and

trials are vital, for Maca shows potential in as a new contribution to the diets

of persons living inn mountainous regions worldwide. This is good news for all

interested in better nutrition and the curative power of herbs.

Is Maca right for you? Would you like to find out more about herbs and herbal

formulas before trying one of our formulas? Visit our site with information

regarding FAQ about herbs and their usage. Go to

http://www.pennherb.com/faqherbs.html

A note of caution, Maca is not recommended for use by those who are pregnant or

nursing. And as with all natural supplements, it is best to seek the advice of

your healthcare professional before using if you have any reservations

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