By Darren Buford
Originally published in Massage & Bodywork magazine, August/September 2001.
Natural remedies for menopause, such as soy, licorice root and black cohosh, have been prevalent for some time. Enter into the foray the Peruvian plant maca. Unlike the former, which all introduce phytoestrogens into the body as a relief agent, maca regulates the flow of estrogen throughout the body, according to biological researcher Gloria Chacon, Ph.D. Rich in calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, iron, zinc, protein, carbohydrates and vitamins B1, B2, B12, C and E and some fatty acids, maca has been reported to assist with fatigue, mood swings and hot flashes.