History + Benefits of Maca
Maca root(lepidium meyenii) comes from the high altitude regions of Peru and it is said that the Inca warriors would consume maca before going into battle. In fact, the Incan warriors believed itincreased their energy, strengthandstamina. Now, we could all benefit from a little extra energy and stamina, right? Even more, because maca is anadaptogen, ithelps the body adapt to stress and exerts a normalizing effect upon bodily processes in times ofanxiety and fatigue. Therefore, maca can help balance mood when the going gets tough. In fact, modern research tells us the benefits of maca go beyond stress, as it even helps to balance hormones.
A Closer Look at Benefits of Maca…
Being a member of the cruciferous family, like broccoli and cabbage,maca has amazing nutritionalbenefits. To be specific, these benefitsinclude: over 20 amino acids, vitamins B1, B2, vitamin C and E, iron, potassium and copper. Surprisingly, the flavor of maca is relatively neutral with a hint of caramel. Others say it has anearthytastethat is mildly nutty with a hint of butterscotch. Perfect for a latte or dessert, right? In terms of supplementation, it is best to start out with one teaspoon of maca daily and work up to 2-3 teaspoons depending on how you feel and your energy levels. It’s important to note, individuals who are on hormone altering medications or high blood pressure are advised not to use maca. (Axe)
Benefits of Maca…
Maca (depending on the variety) has amazing effects on hormonal balance for both men and women: it boosts the immune system, improves sexual function, increases fertility, assists the thyroid, aides the menstrual cycle and improves PCOS. In addition, maca also has the ability to aide memory and focus. (Axe)
- Improves Libido
- Balances Hormones (men & women)
- Increases Fertility
- Aides menstrual cycle/PMS symptoms
- Beneficial for PCOS
- Supports Immune System
- Aides Memory + Focus
- Improves Estrogen Dominance Symptoms
- Improves Progesterone to Estrogen ratio
- Assists the Thyroid
Not All Maca is the Same
Now, did you know that there are 13 different phenotypes of maca? Yep! In fact, depending on the type of maca you come across, each variety will have a different color, different DNA, different analytical profile and even a different physiological effect on the body. To be specific, this information comes from Dr Peter Bablis via Femmenessence.com. Even further, because each kind of maca impacts the body in a variety of different ways, it’s important to select the correct type for your particular health needs. Moreover, there are types of maca better suited for women and others better for men. For example, “while the red maca phenotype has been found to reduce the size of an enlarged prostate in men, others phenotypes won’t or may even increase the size.” On the other hand, “black maca was shown to improve sperm motility and count, while yellow or red maca did not.”
Types of Maca
Now, depending on your health goals and needs, there are different maca strains. Moreover, Fememessence provides superior maca products to achieve your individual health goals. In fact, they also have a team of medical advisors, who can help you pick out the right maca for you.
Quality Matters
We know the quality of our food, water and supplements matter and the same goes for maca. Therefore, it’s equally important to source your maca from companies who value quality seeds and soil, organic farming strategies, drying methods that ensure the product is of the highest potency + the right phenotype for your health needs. A company that prides themselves in the highest degree in terms of growing, sourcing and manufacturing is Femmenessence. In fact, they also have the clinical studies and a medical team to back up their products and clients. From menstrual health to reproductive needs, to perimenopause to post-menopause, Femmenessence has a team of products and experts to help you source the right maca for you.
MacaLatteRecipe
Ingredients:
- 1 cup organic coconut milk
- 1 tsp organicmaca (start with 1/2 tsp if new to maca or open a capsule)
- 1-2 tsp of honey, maple syrup or liquid stevia
- 1/2 tsp Ceylon cinnamon
- 1 scoop of Vital Proteins Collagen Powder (optional protein)
Directions:
- On medium heat, warm your coconut milk to your liking.
- Mix in maca, cinnamon, your healthy sweetener and collagen powder.
- Put in a blender and blend until frothy consistency…and enjoy!
In divine health,
Kristin
*All information, content, and material of thisblog is for informational purposes only and are not intended to serve as a substitute for the diagnosis, and/or medical treatment by a qualified physician.
References:
Bauman, Ed. & Friedlander, J. (2015) “Foundations of Nutrition.” Bauman College: Penngrove , CA.
Murray, M., Pizzorno, J., & Pizzorno, L. (2005). Encyclopedia of Healing Foods. New York, NY: Atria Books.
Dr. Axe. retrieved from http://draxe.com/top-5-maca-root-benefits-and-nutrition/
“Are You Using the Right Type of Maca?” retrieved from: https://femmenessence.com/blogs/blog/are-you-using-the-right-type-of-maca
Clinical Research: retrieved from: https://femmenessence.com/pages/clinical-research
