Evidence supporting the use of: Maca
For the health condition: Menstrual Irregularity

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Maca (Lepidium meyenii), a root vegetable native to the Andes, has a long history of traditional use in Peruvian herbal medicine. Traditionally, maca has been consumed to enhance fertility, balance hormones, and support overall reproductive health in both women and men. Women in indigenous cultures have used maca to help with symptoms related to menstrual irregularity, including mood swings, cramps, and irregular cycles. The rationale for its use is based on observations that maca may help modulate the endocrine system, potentially benefiting hormonal balance.

From a scientific perspective, evidence supporting maca’s effectiveness for menstrual irregularity is limited and primarily based on small studies or animal models. There is some preliminary research indicating that maca may positively influence hormonal levels, particularly luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and estrogen, but robust clinical trials in women with menstrual irregularity are lacking. Most available human research has focused on menopausal symptoms rather than true menstrual irregularity. Thus, while traditional use is well documented, scientific validation remains insufficient for strong recommendations. In summary, maca is traditionally used for menstrual irregularity, but clinical evidence supporting its effectiveness is limited.

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