Maca Shows Promise in Protecting Brain Cells from Oxidative Stress

Our bodies naturally produce reactive oxygen species (ROS) during normal cell activities. They are constantly eliminated from the body through a variety of biological processes. However, when ROS are produced in excess, they can harm cells and are linked to diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's.¹ To combat this damage, researchers are turning to natural remedies with antioxidant properties. One of these is maca (Lepidium meyenii), a plant from the Andes known for its health benefits. This study explored whether maca leaf extract may protect brain cells from oxidative stress.

The Study

The researchers focused on PC12 cells, a type of cell often used to study brain function and diseases. To mimic the damage seen in neurodegenerative conditions, they exposed the cells to a harmful compound called 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA). Then, they treated the cells with a methanolic extract from maca leaves to see if it could protect them. The team measured the extract's antioxidant strength, its ability to keep cells alive, and its effect on markers of cell damage and protection.

The Results

The results were promising. The methanolic extract of maca leaves showed strong antioxidant activity, meaning it could neutralize harmful molecules that cause cell damage. When cells were pretreated with the extract, their survival improved significantly—by 31% after six hours and 60% after twelve hours. The extract also reduced signs of cell damage and increased the activity of protective enzymes that fight oxidative stress.

What Does this Mean?

This study suggests that maca leaves might help protect brain cells from oxidative stress, a key factor in diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. By boosting cell survival and reducing damage, maca leaf extract could be a natural way to support brain health. While this research was done in a lab, it opens the door for further studies to explore maca's antioxidant properties and its potential benefits for humans.

Other herbs with strong antioxidant properties, such as turmeric and ginkgo biloba, also hold promise for supporting overall brain health and combating oxidative stress.