Exploring the chemical and pharmacological variability of Lepidium meyenii: a comprehensive review of the effects of maca.

ABSTRACT: Maca (Lepidium meyenii), a biennial herbaceous plant indigenous to the Andes Mountains, has a rich history of traditional use for its purported health benefits. Maca's chemical composition varies due to ecotypes, growth conditions, and post-harvest processing, contributing to its intricate phytochemical profile, including, macamides, macaenes, and glucosinolates, among other components. This review provides an in-depth revision and analysis of Maca's diverse bioactive metabolites, focusing on the pharmacological properties registered in pre-clinical and clinical studies. Maca is generally safe, with rare adverse effects, supported by preclinical studies revealing low toxicity and good human tolerance. Preclinical investigations highlight the benefits attributed to Maca compounds, in

SUBMITTER: Ulloa Del Carpio N 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10910417 | biostudies-literature | 2024

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature