This “superfood” is said to energize the body, enhance focus, and elevate users’ experiences in intimate affairs.
The Amazing Benefits of Peru Ginseng
Recently, The Sun published an article discussing the benefits of maca root.
Maca, also known as Lepidium meyenii or Peruvian ginseng, is a native plant of the Andes Mountains in South America and has been cultivated for thousands of years.
Traditionally, maca has been used as food or medicine to treat respiratory and joint ailments. Today, it is hailed as a “superfood” favored by many celebrities.
Actress Jennifer Aniston and Victoria’s Secret angel Miranda Kerr often mix maca powder into their smoothies, while model Daisy Lowe sprinkles it onto chocolate desserts.
Maca is also known as Lepidium meyenii or Peruvian ginseng.
Even a small serving of maca can be effective.
100g of maca contains about 15g of protein, comparable to shrimp, and more than Greek yogurt and cheese.
This root is also rich in iron, vitamin B2, fiber, calcium, and zinc—all of which are great for the mind, body, and skin.
The best part is that maca tastes quite good. It has a sweet and slightly nutty flavor—perfect for blending into smoothies and porridge.
So what are the potential health benefits of maca?
1. Increases Sexual Desire
The most widely reported benefit of adding maca to the diet is its ability to increase sexual desire.
A 2002 study showed that men taking 1.5g or 3g of maca daily had higher sexual desire than those taking a placebo.
Two additional reports in a 2010 review demonstrated significant positive changes in sexual desire for both men and women.
Furthermore, Spanish scientists in 2020 found that taking 2g of maca daily for 12 weeks significantly improved sperm concentration.
2. Reduces Erectile Dysfunction
While evidence is limited, some studies suggest that maca may benefit those suffering from erectile dysfunction.
A study on rats indicated that after 15 days of maca consumption, the animals exhibited increased sexual behavior and improved sexual performance.
Another study examined the effects of consuming 2.4g of maca daily for three months. Participants taking the supplement reported significant improvements in sexual health compared to those on a placebo.
Maca is rich in iron, vitamin B2, fiber, calcium, and zinc.
3. Boosts Energy
Some scientists believe that maca can help boost energy levels, similar to caffeine.
In 2016, a research team in Peru discovered that taking maca for 12 weeks improved energy levels compared to a placebo group.
The exact mechanism is not well understood, but some believe it may be due to stabilizing blood sugar levels.
Maca also contains B vitamins and iron, which are known to help maintain long-lasting energy and combat fatigue.
4. Improves Mood
Maca is thought to help the body adapt to or combat anxiety, stress, and depression.
It contains flavonoids—a group of natural chemicals known for their antioxidant properties. These compounds are believed to enhance mood and reduce anxiety and depression.
While there are not many studies specifically focusing on maca, one 2015 study found that flavonoids could alleviate depressive symptoms in postmenopausal women in China.
Another study found that participants experienced reduced feelings of anxiety after taking flavonoids.
5. Enhances Memory
A 2011 study found evidence that maca may enhance memory and learning abilities in rats.
A review three years later reached similar conclusions, suggesting it could help treat Alzheimer’s disease in the future.
6. Lowers Blood Pressure
Some experts believe that maca may help reduce blood pressure.
Research indicated that consuming 3.3g of maca daily for three months helped lower blood pressure.
7. Alleviates Menopausal Symptoms
Studies suggest that those experiencing menopause may greatly benefit from taking maca.
Researchers at Baylor University in Waco, Texas, found that it helped alleviate some symptoms, including hot flashes and disrupted sleep.
Another study conducted in Poland and Australia indicated that night sweats could also be reduced.
Maca is available in various forms, including capsules and powder, which are easy to consume. They can be taken directly or added to smoothies or porridge. As with all supplements, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before using maca.
