Maca

(Lepidium meyenii)

Maca is a root vegetable, similar to a radish, which only grows
in cold climates at very high altitudes – most maca is grown in
the Andes Mountains of South America. Maca has been in use
as a food and herb for humans and livestock for thousands of
years for strength, stamina, energy and sexual vitality in men
and women. Maca is usually used as a flour – look for a product
that is not ‘gelatinized’ (gelatinization removes the fibre but
involves pressure and heat, destroying nutrients).

Maca is around 60% complex carbohydrate, providing fuel
to burn. It is over 10% protein (5 times more than potato),
containing 19 amino acids (7 of the 8 essential amino acids).

Maca contains significant levels of iron and zinc, which
can be difficult to keep up on a vegetarian diet. Both these
minerals are vital for good energy levels. Maca also contains
significant amounts of calcium (more than milk), magnesium,
phosphorus, potassium, iodine, copper, selenium, bismuth,
manganese and silica. This food-herb also contains vitamins
B1, B2, C, E and is a rich source of sterols.

Maca contains unique alkaloids and hormone precursors,
helping to regulate hormonal processes throughout the
entire body. Sexual organs, thyroid and adrenal function
become more balanced when taking this herb regularly:
• People with hypothyroid tend to experience increased
metabolism
• In combination with appropriate exercise maca helps
gain muscle mass (effects are similar to a high protein diet)
• Maca increases libido in men and women, increases
virility in men
• Women experiencing the effects of menopause report
relief from symptoms
• People experience relief from depression.

Maca is known as a potent adaptogen, it will help boost
vitality but does not over-stimulate. The herb is claimed to
improve memory and blood oxygenation along with balancing
neurotransmitters for overall enhanced brain functioning.

It is best taken for periods of about 3-4 weeks with a week
off in between. 1-3 teaspoons a day is a rough guide. The
powder has a strong earthy taste, malty and slightly spicy,
which blends well with muesli, chocolate, coffee, tea and
nut/seed milk – based smoothies.