Maca is a root native to the Andes mountain range.
It has been cultivated for centuries by the natives of Peru and Bolivia for its nutritional benefits and uses.
Known as "Peruvian ginseng," maca is commonly used as an aphrodisiac and general sexual tonic for men.
In fact, there have been several recorded cases of ancient Inca warriors consuming maca before going into battle to increase strength, stamina, and energy levels.
Let's take a closer look at the properties and benefits of this versatile root!
What is maca?
Maca is a root that grows in the Andes mountain range.
It is part of the radish family and has been grown in the region for centuries.
The maca plant is a perennial herb that grows between 8 and 28 centimeters in height.
The roots of the maca are elongated and resemble a carrot in both size and shape.
Maca root has a fibrous root system with pink or red flesh.
It has a delicate and slightly bitter taste which is preferably consumed in powder form.
Benefits of Maca Root
Maca root has been shown to have aphrodisiac and energizing properties, as well as being an excellent source of minerals and vitamins.
Maca contains vitamins B1, B2, B3, B6, C, E and minerals such as calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, iron, zinc, iodine and selenium.
It also contains amino acids, including serotonin and phenylethylamine.
Maca root is often used to improve libido and fertility in men and to help regulate menstruation in women.
It can also help boost energy and focus, becoming a popular ingredient in energy drinks and supplements.
Maca root promotes the production of hormones, which can contribute to the fertility of men and women, to regulate menstruation and to increase libido.
Not only is maca a great natural aphrodisiac, it also offers many other health benefits.
How does maca promote sexual desire and function?
As we have already mentioned, maca root has been shown to increase hormone production in both men and women.
This can improve libido, fertility and sexual function.
Maca is an adaptogen that helps the body adapt to stressful situations.
This can happen when you are in a new relationship or have a busy schedule.
Levels of hormone production can be naturally elevated when under stress, which can affect sexual desire.
Maca can help reduce the amount of stress hormones in the body and thus increase sexual desire.
Other benefits of maca root
Maca root is an excellent energy stimulant, especially for athletes and fitness lovers.
It can help increase energy levels and improve concentration.
Maca root has been shown to reduce symptoms of menopause, such as hot flashes, night sweats and mood swings.
Maca root can help with mood disorders, including anxiety, loneliness, and depression.
Maca root is an excellent source of minerals, including calcium, phosphorus, iron, and zinc.
These minerals can help lower blood pressure, prevent bone loss, and regulate hormone levels.
Maca root can also help strengthen the immune system and prevent diseases such as cancer, heart disease and diabetes.
Maca root side effects
The side effects associated with the consumption of maca are very few.
In general, if you start taking maca root and notice any negative side effects, such as headache, dizziness, or gastrointestinal problems, you should stop taking it.
There is also conflicting information as to whether maca root has an effect on fertility.
More research is needed to determine whether maca root should be avoided in case of infertility.
The budget
Since maca root is a natural plant extract, its price is low and is readily available in health food stores and online.
A sachet of maca root can cost between 5 and 10 euros and can last a few months if taken as a daily supplement.