posted by Robin

Maca has been used, for thousands of years, as a medicinal herb to enhance strength, endurance, fertility and for its aphrodisiacal effects.

About – Maca is a root that grows in the high Andes of Peru, at altitudes of approximately 4,100–4,500 metres. It grows well in cold climates with relatively poor agricultural soils, where few other crops can be grown. Nearly all maca cultivation in Peru is carried out organically, as there are few pests naturally occurring at such high altitudes, and maca itself is seldom attacked. It is grown for its use as a root vegetable and a medicinal herb. Maca is the only member of its genus with a fleshy hypocotyl which is fused with the taproot to form a rough inverted-pear-shaped body. Maca varies greatly in the size and shape of the root, which can be triangular, flattened circular, spherical or rectangular. Maca can be gold or cream, red, purple, blue, black or green. Different color strains have different nutritional and therapeutic properties. Cream colored roots are the most popular and most widely grown.

Nutrition – Maca is a nutritional powerhouse, high in protein, fatty acids, phytonutrients, antioxidants with an abundance of trace minerals. It is especially high in Vitamins C and E and in magnesium, calcium, iron and zinc. It is rich in alkaloids, glucosinolates and flavonoids. Maca is an adaptogen. It stimulates the pituitary gland and when the pituitary gland functions optimally, the entire endocrine system becomes balanced, because the pituitary gland controls the hormone output. It helps to regulate and balance the hormonal systems of both men and women of all ages, encouraging the body to produce its own natural hormones. In women it can provide relief from symptoms such as hot flashes, mood swings, fatigue, insomnia, vaginal dryness, and loss of libido. Maca is often called “Peruvian Viagra” for its benefits to sexual and reproductive health and its rejuvenating effect on the hormonal system. It is beneficial to men in that it aids to produce and utilize testosterone. Maca can restore the aging hormonal system back to that of its younger years by strengthening and toning the entire endocrine system. While maca feeds and nourishes the glandular system, it in no way acts as an aggressor in the body. It promotes energy and stamina and helps us to handle stress. Maca enhances cognitive processes in the bran and is a powerful natural mood enhancer. Maca is best used continually to receive its full benefit.