Evidence supporting the use of: Maca
For the health condition: Miscarriage (prevention)

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 1

Maca (Lepidium meyenii) is a root vegetable native to the Andes, traditionally consumed for its reputed fertility-enhancing properties. In the context of miscarriage prevention, the use of maca is primarily justified by traditional use, especially within Andean cultures where it has been valued as a folk remedy for improving reproductive health in both men and women. Historical accounts suggest that maca was believed to enhance fertility, regulate menstrual cycles, and support a healthy pregnancy. However, these traditional uses are not specific to miscarriage prevention, but rather to overall fertility and vitality.

From a scientific perspective, evidence supporting maca’s effectiveness in preventing miscarriage is extremely limited. Most available research on maca focuses on its potential to improve libido, sperm quality, and hormonal balance, with studies generally involving animal models or small human cohorts. There are no robust clinical trials or scientific reviews that directly investigate maca’s role in preventing miscarriage. Some animal studies suggest that maca may exert hormone-modulating effects, but these findings have not been translated into clear recommendations for miscarriage prevention in humans. Thus, the use of maca for this specific condition remains primarily traditional, with little scientific validation.

In summary, while maca is widely used in traditional medicine systems for reproductive health, there is minimal direct scientific evidence supporting its efficacy in preventing miscarriage.

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