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 resilient plant, able to survive the 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 as a dietary supplement to boost energy , this root helps enhance physical and mental performance and stimulate the immune system.
Maca
There are several types of maca: black, red, and yellow. When discussing its benefits, we're referring to yellow maca. This variety is considered the most effective and contains more active ingredients than the others.
Nom :
Maca
Nom latin : Lepidium meyenii Walp.
Type : Brassicaceae
Origine : 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 its vitamin and mineral content. 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 plant's rich composition of vitamins and minerals 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 been used for its healing and fortifying properties. Renowned for its effect on hormonal balance and vitality, it has now established itself as a superfood with numerous benefits.
Boosts energy
A natural adaptogen, this Peruvian root helps the body adapt to stress and physical exertion . It combats chronic fatigue and improves endurance, making it a valuable ally for athletes and people with an active lifestyle.
Boosts libido
Maca is traditionally used as an aphrodisiac. For both men and women, this root helps relieve stress that can lead to a loss of libido and stimulates sexual desire. In men, it helps resolve issues such as poor stamina, erectile dysfunction, and premature ejaculation.
Helps with emotional balance
The amino acids present in Maca also contribute to a good emotional 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.
Furthermore, 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 of the testicles, ovaries, and thyroid.
Alleviates menopausal symptoms
Maca can help relieve the hot flashes and night sweats that accompany menopause . Its stimulating effect on serotonin production also helps manage the emotional upheaval 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 therefore help reduce muscle fatigue and improve recovery after exercise.
Relieves temporary stress
In addition to aiding serotonin production, maca also stimulates the organ responsible for sleep and memory. For those who lack concentration or focus, it's a good natural alternative for calming the mind.
Stimulates the immune system
Maca is rich in vitamins C and E and is a natural antioxidant that makes the body more resistant to bacteria and infections. Its sedative and analgesic effects also allow the body to recover and regenerate better after a virus.
