Effect of three different cultivars of Lepidium meyenii (Maca) on learning and depression in ovariectomized mice
2006

Effects of Different Maca Varieties on Learning and Depression in Mice

Sample size: 80 publication 10 minutes Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Rubio Julio, Caldas Maria, Dávila Sonia, Gasco Manuel, Gonzales Gustavo F

Primary Institution: Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia

Hypothesis

What are the effects of Yellow, Red, and Black Maca on cognitive function and depression in ovariectomized mice?

Conclusion

Black Maca showed the most beneficial effects on learning, while all varieties of Maca demonstrated antidepressant activity.

Supporting Evidence

  • Black Maca was the most effective in reducing finding latency in trained mice.
  • All varieties of Maca reduced immobility time in the forced swimming test.
  • Mice treated with Maca showed increased uterine weight compared to the control group.

Takeaway

This study tested three types of Maca on mice to see if they could help with learning and feeling sad. The black kind worked best for learning, and all types helped the mice feel less sad.

Methodology

Ovariectomized mice were treated with Yellow, Red, or Black Maca for 21 days, and their cognitive function and depression were assessed using the water finding task and forced swimming test.

Limitations

The study did not use a standard reference drug for comparison.

Participant Demographics

Three-month-old female Swiss strain mice.

Statistical Information

P-Value

p<0.05

Statistical Significance

p<0.05

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1472-6882-6-23

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