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In the lofty highlands of the Andes Mountains in central Peru, a plant known as Maca thrives. This is where the name “Peruvian Ginseng” derived from. It is a tuber, also known as Ayuk willku and Ayak chichira. The native Andean people consume Maca root because of its high nutritive value. The tangy tasted root can be eaten raw, cooked, boiled or baked. On the other hand, the dried root is used as an ingredient in many juices, gelatins, jams, and hard beverages.
Health benefits
Maca has gained popularity for helping in balancing hormones and reversing hypothyroidism. The best part, it is an endocrine adaptogen. The term indicates that Maca does not contain any hormones; instead, it has the nutrients essential to support regular hormone production. Maca also stimulates and nourishes the pituitary glands, which are considered the “master glands” of the body. These glands, in fact, regulate the other glands. Subsequently, when in balance, they can bring balance to the adrenal, thyroid, pancreas, ovarian and testicular glands.
Maca root is high in minerals, sterols, essential fatty acids, fibre, carbohydrates, protein, and amino acids. Time and again, it has been shown excellent results as a successful fertility enhancer, especially in men.
Maca powder, Image Source: indiamart
Furthermore, Maca comes as a blessing for many common syndrome and symptoms. It helps combat anaemia and chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS); and boosts the immune system, stamina, athletic performance, and memory. It is also used for strengthening weak bones (osteoporosis), curing depression, and treating stomach cancer, leukaemia, HIV/AIDS and tuberculosis.
How to use maca
Since Maca is a root vegetable from the radish family, one can take it in small amounts daily. Have it as boiled, roasted, steamed or baked. It is also available in powder; that can be consumed in smoothies or coffee. It seems to be well tolerated by the majority of people. The dried form is used in a lot of beverages.
Who should avoid it?
The extracts from Maca might act like estrogen, which can worsen the condition. It is advisable for expecting and nursing mothers to avoid this root. Other than them, the experts advise that people suffering from hormone-sensitive conditions, including breast cancer, uterine cancer, ovarian cancer, endometriosis, or uterine fibroids, try not to have maca.
