Potency-promoting, increased testosterone production, aphrodisiac effect – Maca powder is often associated with a male target group. But women also benefit from taking Maca (Lepidium meyenii). The plant increases performance and strengthens the immune system, is also used for menstrual and digestive disorders and is also said to alleviate typical menopausal symptoms .

More about the effects, ingredients and areas of application of You can find out about maca in our blog post: Maca – small tuber, big effect

Menopause: This changes in the body

The time of the last menstruation is called menopause. Menopause (climacteric) is characterized by a drop in the estrogen and progestin levels , as the ovaries produce fewer sex hormones. Fertility decreases and ovulation and the associated menstrual bleeding eventually cease. In addition to a reduced production of estrogen and progestin, there is an increase in gonadotropin kaufen follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) during menopause. These changes in the hormonal balance lead to symptoms in around two thirds of women. In a third, the symptoms are very pronounced and significantly impair the quality of life. Typically, hot flashes, insomnia, palpitations, dizziness, sweats and depressive moods occur.

Maca powder: effect on menopausal symptoms

Many women rely on herbal remedies for menopausal symptoms because they want to avoid hormone preparations – especially if the symptoms are only mild. Such alternative treatment options include taking Maca powder . The Incas already used the root as a medicinal plant. Studies show that Maca has a positive effect on typical menopausal symptoms. A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover study could not determine any influence on the hormone concentration of estradiol, FSH or LH from taking 3.5 g of maca powder per day for 6 weeks. However, typical menopausal symptoms such as depressive moods, sexual dysfunction or anxiety were reduced by the supplementation. In a longer study a maca supplement of 2x 500 mg daily not only reduced the frequency and intensity of symptoms such as hot flashes and night sweats, but also increased estradiol and reduced FSH levels in blood.

Unfortunately, results from long-term studies on a large cohort are still missing. Therefore, the use of Maca for menopausal symptoms is not yet widespread. Maca powder should only be used to treat the complaints after consulting the doctor in charge.