Maca root powder

Maca, also called Lepidium peruvuanum or Lepidium meyeni, has been an important traditional food and medicinal plant in Peru for the last 2000 years. The plant grows between 13,000 and 14,500 feet above the sea level on the high Andean plateaus of Peru. This plant can only survive in extremely cold areas with a relatively poor soil. Although it has been cultivated outside the Andes it is not yet clear whether these roots have the same constitution and effects as the original Andes maca root.
Maca root is an extremely nutritious food. The plant is high in minerals (calcium, potassium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, and zinc), sterols (6 found), and contains up to 20 essential fatty acids, lipids, fiber, carbohydrates, protein, and amino acids. For Andean Indians maca is an energizer and potency enhancer.The sweet, spicey dried maca root is considered a delicay. The Peruvian government has done great investments in scientific research to prove positive effects.

Effects

The nutritional value of dried maca root is high, similar to cereal grains such as rice and wheat. Positive effects of the plant such as stimulating and increasing sexual performance could be due to this high concentration of proteins and nutrients.
Native medicine practioners and herbalists have used the herb for any negative side effects that occur during the menopause, such as hot flashes, vaginal dryness and depression. The herb should also help to improve memory.
Reports from Peruvian educational and scientific institutions have showed significant (120-200%) increases in sexual endurance, physical stamina, adaptability to stressful situations and an increase in both the number and activity of spermatazoids (sperm). Although, this information has not yet been thoroughly reviewed or studied much outside of Peru.

Usage

Maca powder can be excellently used in smoothies, nut milks, malts, cakes, juices, chai tea, or baked goods. But to benefit from its qualities, mixing maca with hot or cold water is just as fine. In the Andes, as much as a pound of fresh and/or dried maca root is eaten as food on a single day.
In herbal medicine; powders are generally recommended at dosages of 5-20 g daily.
Store in a cool and dry place and avoid excessive exposure to heat, moisture and direct sunlight.

Warning

To date no record of any contraindications, adverse effects, or toxicity have been found.

Links

For more detailed info on maca root see Raintree or Botanical.com. This text is partly based on these pages.

Reviews

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Jan 19, 2008 Burgundeejones said:
     
“Maca is a tuber grown in the Andes and it is my best friend. Not only does it have aphrodisiac qualities but it's great for energy, mood, hormone balance in men and women and adrenal balance!!! Maca is the best food in the world!!!”

Jun 1, 2007 Matt said:
     
“I started eating maca root recently and have been very happy with the results. I have felt an increase in energy and overall feel healthier than I have in a long time. I'd suggest this to anyone.”