Maca has been cultivated for over 3,000 years in the high plateaus of the Andes Mountains in Peru and Bolivia. It is a very hardy plant, as it survives low temperatures at high altitudes. Its fleshy tuber is shaped like a turnip.
A sacred plant of the Incas, it has long been used in traditional Peruvian medicine.
Today, used asa dietary supplement to restore energy, this root helps increase physical and mental performance and stimulate the immune system.
Maca
There are several types of maca: black, red, and yellow. When we talk about its benefits, we are referring to yellow maca. This variety is considered to be the most effective and contains more active ingredients than the others.
Name:
Maca
Latin name: Lepidium meyenii Walp.
Type: Brassicaceae
Origin: South America (Peru)
History of Maca
Maca has been used for over 4,000 years as a tonic to improve endurance and physical strength thanks to itsvitamin and mineralcontent. The Incas considered it a precious commodity. It was reserved for royalty and warriors because of its fortifying and energizing properties.
Composition and main active compounds of Maca
The rich vitamin and mineral content of this plant gives it unique properties and explains its many benefits for the body.
- Sterols
- Minerals
- Vitamins (B1, B2, B12, D, E, C)
- Glucosinolates
The benefits of Maca
For centuries,Maca has beenused for its healing and fortifying properties. Renowned for its effect on hormonal balance and vitality, it has now established itself as a superfood with multiple benefits.
Boosts energy
A natural adaptogen, this Peruvian root helps the bodyadapt to stress and physical exertion. It combats chronic fatigue and improves endurance, making it a valuable ally for athletes and people with active lifestyles.
Emotional balance support
The amino acids present in Maca also contribute toemotional and hormonal balance.
It influences the adrenal glands in the brain by stimulating the production of feel-good hormones such as endorphins and serotonin. These hormones help manage stress and provide a feeling of happiness and well-being.
In addition, maca contains plant sterols that stimulate the endocrine system. This stimulation helps to rebalance the hormones produced by various glands, including the adrenal glands, but also those in the testicles, ovaries, and thyroid.
Boosts libido
Maca is traditionally used as an aphrodisiac. For both men and women, this root helps relieve stress that causes loss of libido and stimulates sexual desire. In men, it helps resolve problems with stamina, erection, or premature ejaculation.
Alleviates menopause symptoms
Maca can helprelieve hot flashes and night sweats associated with menopause. Its stimulating effect on serotonin production also helps manage the emotional distress that can be caused by menopause.
Reduces muscle fatigue
It is a plant rich in amino acids, which are the building blocks of proteins. Proteins are essential for building and repairing muscles. Maca can thereforehelp reduce muscle fatigue and improve recovery after exercise.
Relieves temporary stress
In addition to helping produce serotonin, Maca also stimulates the organ responsible for sleep and memory. For those who lack concentration or attention, it is a good natural alternative forcalming the mind.
Boosts the immune system
Maca is rich invitamins C and Eand is a natural antioxidant that makes the body more resistant to bacteria and infections. Its sedative and analgesic effects also help the body recover and regenerate more effectively after a virus.
