Abordagem farmacológica e terapêutica da Lepidium meyenii Walp. (MACA) : uma revisão de literatura

Abstract

The use of medicinal plants and herbal remedies for the recovery of health is a widespread practice that was cobbled up over time, being the result of the secular accumulation of empirical knowledge about the action of plants by different ethnic groups. It is necessary to establish evidences on the safety profile of herbal medicine to reduce risks to patient health. The application of tools that allow a critical evaluation and rational use of preclinical studies and clinical trials on efficacy and safety of medicinal plants and herbal medicines is very important. This research is a review of studies involving Lepidium meyenii Walp. (Maca), a plant used in traditional medicine in various pathological conditions and organ dysfunction. This is a narrative discursive review. Lepidium meyenii is native to the region of the Andes in Peru, but can be found in Bolivia, Colombia, Chile and Argentina. In the Peruvian traditional medicine Lepidium meyenii is used to increase vitality, stress, to promote libido, increase fertility and sexual performance in men and women. Some studies suggest that secondary metabolites found in extracts of this plant are responsible for their physiological effects (macamides and macaenes). Toxicology studies conducted with Lepidium meyenii showed its low oral toxicity in animals and low toxicity in vitro. Several preclinical studies have been conducted to evaluate therapeutic actions associated with the use of Maca, which include: antioxidant, lipid-lowering effects, fertility enhancement, increased sexual performance, spermatogenic effect and action on anti hyperplasia of the prostate. The Lepidium meyenii (Maca) has been widely used in traditional medicine in increased vitality, in stress, promoting libido, increased fertility and sexual performance in men and women. In males it was found that Maca increases sexual desire, sperm production and improves mild erectile dysfunction. In females, Maca showed a reduction in symptoms of menopause and improvement of sexual dysfunction associated with menopause. It can be concluded after a review of the scientific literature, ethnopharmacological data and pre-clinical and clinical studies, that Lepidium meyenii (Maca) may be indicated in the improvement of desire (libido) and sexual performance, and is safe in the dose of 1.5 g/day to 3 g/day.