Sometimes called the Peruvian ginseng, this root vegetable is dried after growing in Peru’s Magic Valley, a plateau high in the Andes Mountains known for its nutrient-rich soil. It is grown organically because there are no need for pesticides and other repellent chemicals, as the Maca plant is rarely a victim of pests. In fact, Maca root is sometimes grown alongside crops such as potatoes to repel bugs naturally. This herb has been used for centuries to improve fertility, mood, and energy, considered a natural aphrodisiac. Recent studies have shown use of Maca root reduces stress, increases metabolism and memory function, and can even prevent cancer, including breast and stomach cancer. Also a natural treatment for anemia, known as an adaptogen, this herb has shown an ability to promote homeostasis, regulating biological processes that are thrown out of order due to stress or other factors. The only ingredient in these capsules is Maca root. However, the nutrients contained in Maca root include: Calcium and Potassium: These electrolytes are essential to organ and muscle function, and bone health. Regular use can prevent osteoporosis and stroke. Amino Acids: Amino acids are the building blocks of protein. Many of Maca’s effects, including increased energy, mood, and sexual function are due to its high protein content. Polysaccharides: These carbohydrate structures are renowned for their many health benefits, including increased mood, enhanced digestion, heart health, liver function, cancer prevention, and blood sugar regulation. It is difficult for the body to digest polysaccharides alone, which is not a problem when taking herbs that naturally contain them, like Maca root. P-methoxybenzyl glucosinolate: An organic compound that works as a hormonal and metabolic regulator Methanolic Extract: This element is a proven internal-regulator and stress reducer. Fatty Acids: This is the good type of fat that your body needs to function. It contributes to a number of biological systems and processes, including the immune, cardiovascular, reproductive, and nervous systems. There are a wide range of other nutrients, including minerals such as zinc, copper, and magnesium, and vitamins A, D, C, B1, B2, and B3. The nutritional elements in Maca root contribute to pituitary gland health, which is an essential gland in regulating the body. This contribution to overall health means an improved well-being, having an effect that will be visible from the outside - many users report an improved look of their skin and a presence that emulates health. Medical Uses of Maca Root: |
While individuals without these problems can benefit from use of Maca root, it is also used to treat a number of problems. Diabetics often utilize to herb to help regulate blood sugar. Prescription anti-depressants sometimes don’t work with a person’s body chemistry or have unpleasant side effects, and so the feel-good properties of Maca root can not only serve as a natural antidepressant, but can regulate hormones that may cause depression in the first place. Women often use Maca root to improve fertility, and both sexes utilize the herb to treat problems with sexual function. During menopause, the herb can treat hormone irregularity and release stress. Not only does the drug help prevent cancer, but it is often given to cancer patients and even AIDS patients to strengthen the immune system when non-natural methods are too harsh on the patient’s fragile biological system. An Organic Super-Food Backed by History Maca root has been utilized by the citizens of the Andes Mountains for over 2000 years and is still traded in Peruvian markets. Incans soldiers even took Maca root before going into battle for its effects on energy, vitality, and muscle function. When Spanish soldiers arrived, they recognized the powerful nutrients in the herb plant and popularized use, but due to its narrow growth range in the valleys of the Andes Mountains, the herb was “lost” and rediscovered in the mid-19th century and studied by scientists for its health benefits. Peru’s Magic Valley Part of this super-herbs nutritious elements come from its soil, the Magic Valley of Peru. Although Maca root can be grown in other Andes Mountain highlands, this valley is thought of by natives to be enchanted. Scientifically, this “magic” comes from ideal growing elements, including natural irrigation provided by glacial melts, low-density mountain air, proximity to the sun, and nutrient-rich soil. Q: If Maca root is a powerful super-herb, why haven’t I heard of it before?
A: Maca root has a narrow growth condition, meaning that quality plants have a small area of cultivation. Unlike many plants, Maca thrives in high altitudes. The other reason is because Maca root was considered “lost” to the world for a period of time—while it has always been utilized by the locals, it has only been widely available for a couple of decades. Q: How will Maca root improve my sex life?
A: A natural aphrodisiac, the proteins and carbohydrates have an energy-boosting effect that increases libido and drive. Doctors are also looking at one of Maca’s aphrodisiac properties, yohimbe, to treat erectile dysfunction. Q: I consider myself healthy. Why should I take Maca root?
A: Maca root use can be of benefit even to the healthiest of individuals, as a person needs nutrients daily and Maca root has important preventative properties, including hormone regulation, an immune system boost, and cancer prevention. |
