Peter Smanjak

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Organic Maca Powder

R149.00R569.00

Peruvian Root Powder (Super Adaptogenic Root)

Legend has it that Incan warriors used to eat maca before going into battle – they believed it gave them invincible strength and stamina. Yellow maca is the mostly widely available type of maca root, which has thyroid modulating and hormone balancing properties.

Spotlight: Phytosterols

Maca contains phytosterols, plant-based compounds that inhibit the absorption of cholesterol and may even help lower total and LDL  (“bad”) cholesterol levels. Some studies have also found that higher intakes of phytosterols may decrease cancer risk. Phytosterols are found in maca and other plant foods, including wheat germ, vegetable oils (like olive and sesame oils), peanuts, almonds, and wheat bran.

Description

Maca is an annual plant (Lepidium meyenii) that grows in the high elevations of the Andes. Native to Peru, it has been cultivated for thousands of years for its fleshy root, which has traditionally been used to increase stamina, reduce fatigue, boost libido, and enhance fertility. Reportedly, Incan warriors would often consume maca prior to battle for strength and stamina – though they were prohibited from using it after victory to protect women from the heightened sexual desires that might occur from its use.

There is a limited but growing body of research that is only beginning to unfold the potential benefits of maca and support some of its traditional uses. But if you are looking to enhance your overall well-being – and perhaps your sex life – this super root vegetable may be a welcome addition to your diet.

Stress-Busting Super Root: Maca has a diverse mix of vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and fats. A single teaspoon of raw maca powder boasts a modest gram each of fiber and protein, along with 2 percent each of your daily calcium and iron needs. It is also high in beneficial phytosterols and alkamides, compounds thought to strengthen and support the endocrine system, which regulates nearly every bodily process from your metabolism and mood to growth and sexual function.

Alkamide-rich maca is widely known as an adaptogen, which enhances the body’s natural ability to respond or “adapt” to stress (for example, physical stress like intense exercise or mental stress like anxiety). Adaptogens strengthen the systems of the body – without overstimulating or inhibiting normal functions – and bring them back to a balanced state when outside stressors threaten to disrupt them. The alkamides in maca, in particular a group called macamides, are thought to be part of this support and responsible, at least in part, for maca’s potential to enhance sexual function.

Superfood for Super Sex:  A small number of animal studies over the past decade have found that maca may boost libido, improve sexual behavior, enhance the production of sperm, and increase fertility (this super root seems to help increase sperm count and motility). One study also found that maca supplementation reduced prostate size in rats with enlarged prostates.

In human studies, researchers have found that supplementing with maca root powder – in amounts ranging from 1. to 3. grams (1 /3  to 2 /3  teaspoon) daily – may improve energy, mood, libido, and fertility. In a study published in 2009, Italian researchers found that maca root powder – 2.4 grams (1 /2 teaspoon) administered over a twelve-week period – resulted in a small but significant improvement in sexual function and overall well-being in men with mild erectile dysfunction.

And a study published in Menopause  in 2008 found that postmenopausal women who received 3. grams (2/3 teaspoon) of maca powder for six weeks had lower measures of sexual dysfunction and reduced anxiety and depression. Although treatment with maca in amounts of 1. to 3. grams (1/3 to 2/3 teaspoons) appears to offer some benefits regarding sexual function, studies have shown that those same amounts seem to have no measurable effects on hormone levels in men or women. Thus, the mechanism by which maca confers benefits remains unclear and certainly more research is needed to better understand the actions of this super root.

Direct Sourcing

This Superfood Maca is of the highest quality and is certified to have been grown organically, free from chemicals and pesticides.

Ingredients: 100% organic maca root powder
Product of Peru

Directions

Maca provides excellent support for your body pre- & post-exercise. Blend into smoothies, hot chocolate, desserts, snack bars, and sweet treats. Maca has an incredible synergistic effect when combined with raw cacao, so add it to your chocolate creations. Start with 1 tsp a day, and gradually move up to 8 tsp or more.

Additional information

Weight N/A