This traditional Peruvian “superfood of the Andes” contains over 55 phyo-chemicals. Also known as Lepidium meyenii, it is hailed as one of the greatest natural adaptogens in the world. Maca root health benefits include: improving overall energy levels, stamina, memory and learning, healthy teeth and bones, and stabilizing hormone levels. In addition maca root is fungistatic (inhibits growth of fungi) and bacteriostatic, an anticarcinogen and antioxidant! Go superfood!
From the study: “Preliminary findings show Lepidium meyenii (Maca) (3.5 g/d) reduces psychological symptoms, including anxiety and depression, and lowers measures of sexual dysfunction in postmenopausal women independent of estrogenic and androgenic activity.”
This 2008 study showed that an aqueous extract of maca protected rats against ultraviolet A, B, and C-induced skin damage.
This 2008 study showed that an aqueous extract of maca protected rats against ultraviolet A, B, and C-induced skin damage.
This site, from Herbs America Company, gives an analysis of all the vitamins, minerals, in the fabulous maca root, and a description of each nutrient.
Morton Walker, DPM (Doctor of Preventive Medicine) gives an overview of the many accounts of maca root being used by petients. Cases include fertility effects, endocrine system balancing, and much more.
[from the article] “Mr. Kilham believes multinational drug companies underutilize the medicinal properties in plants. They pack pills with artificial compounds and sell them at huge markups, he says. He wants Westerners to use the pure plant medicines that indigenous peoples have used for thousands of years.”…”In Peru, Mr. Kilham is betting on maca, a small root vegetable that grows here in the central highlands — “a turnip that packs a punch, it imparts energy, sex drive and stamina like nothing else.”
Charles Weller
Author