Evidence supporting the use of: Maca
For the body system: Adrenal Glands

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Synopsis

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

Maca (Lepidium meyenii) is a root vegetable native to the Andes of Peru and has been used traditionally for centuries as a food and medicinal plant. In traditional Andean medicine, maca is prized for its purported ability to increase energy, stamina, and resilience to stress, which is sometimes interpreted in modern contexts as "supporting the adrenal glands." The adrenal glands are responsible for producing hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline, which help the body respond to stress.

While maca is considered an adaptogen in herbal medicine circles, meaning it may help the body adapt to stressors, direct scientific evidence supporting its specific effects on adrenal gland function is limited. Most traditional use is based on anecdotal reports and historical practices rather than rigorous clinical studies. Some preclinical studies suggest that maca may help improve energy and reduce the negative effects of stress in animals, but human research is sparse and generally focuses on sexual function, fertility, and mood rather than direct adrenal support.

In summary, maca’s use for adrenal support is grounded in traditional practices and its reputation as an adaptogen. However, high-quality scientific studies substantiating its efficacy for specifically supporting adrenal gland health in humans are lacking, so the evidence rating is modest.

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