Maca is a root vegetable that looks somewhat like a turnip. It is indigenous to the Andes Mountains of Peru and has been used for centuries as an aphrodisiac by the locals. Today maca makes up about half of the diet of those living in the Andes since it is one of just a few vegetables that will grow in the rocky, shallow – and often freezing – mountainous soil. Fortunately, maca is also very nutritious and is loaded with vitamins and minerals. Maca root is found in a variety of Peruvian dishes and is also in a fermented beverage known as maca chicha.
Because maca possesses properties that are similar to ginseng, it is sometimes referred to as Peruvian ginseng. Maca and ginseng are both used to increase stamina, energy, strength, and libido. It’s important to note, however, that ginseng and maca are not in the same botanical class. Maca is not a form of ginseng.
A Natural Libido Booster?
Maca has been used for centuries to boost sexual health in both sexes, although scientists are not entirely sure which compounds in the root are responsible for generating the aphrodisiac response. It has been theorized that maca may increase the body’s natural production of such sex hormones as testosterone, progesterone, and estrogen. Without a doubt, maca works, we just don’t know why it works. It’s a mystery that scientists are still exploring.
If you decide to try maca for yourself, don’t expect much from one single dose. The positive effects are noticed after repeated use. It appears that maca needs to build up in your system before you can derive benefit from it. It may take up to six weeks to see results.
Not Just For Men!
Maca root is not just for men experiencing erectile dysfunction. Women can also benefit from this root vegetable. Maca can be used in the treatment of menopause, menstruation problems, hormonal imbalances, hot flashes, anxiety, depression, and others.
Sourcing Maca
Maca is available in a variety of forms from a number of online vendors. You can buy it in a powder, liquid extract, or in capsules. Most people buy it in the powdered form and add it as an ingredient while cooking.
If you are shopping online for maca powder, you’ll quickly discover that it comes in two forms: raw and gelatinized. While the raw form most likely contains the most nutrients, some people do experience some degree of gastric distress when consuming this form. The gelatinized form has gone through a process to remove some of the starch, which makes it easier on the stomach. Regardless of which form you decide to go with, the standard dose is between 1,500 and 3,000 mg.
The Best Way To Consume Maca
Most people who try maca are not a fan of the flavor, which can be described as somewhat nutty or earthy. The best way to consume maca powder is to add it to a smoothy. This makes is much more palatable since it essentially disguises the taste.