Since time immemorial, people have sought out miraculous herbs and mushrooms that promote health, cure deadly diseases and enhance male potency. Every culture has its own guaranteed aphrodisiacs. In our country, oysters and chocolate are particularly well known. Recently, however, especially with the development of tourism, we are gradually learning about other stimulants that people use, often on the other side of the planet. One of the oldest substances for promoting potency is Peruvian maca.
You would look for it here in vain - it grows in the Andes, high above the sea (3800-4400 m). At first glance it resembles a white round radish. In Peru it is eaten raw, but the dried roots crushed into powder have a long shelf life (up to several years) and are easy to store. The Incas in Peru have known it for over 1300 years! It increases fertility and sex drive.
It is a superfood
- contains the whole spectrum of life. Essential amino acids the body cannot create on its own, Maca contains nineteen of them. Its root contains vitamins A, B, C, D and E. In addition, it is a source of flavonoids, glucosinates and alkaloids. These substances have strong antioxidant effects. They help with inflammation in the body and remove unwanted, toxic and waste substances from it. It contains up to 60% carbohydrates, 10-14% protein, 8.5% fiber and 2% fat. It is rich in cholesterol, low in sodium. Trace amounts of iron, iodine, manganese and zinc.
Sexual health and well-being
However, Peruvian maca is mainly used to regulate the sex hormones testosterone, oestrogen and progesterone. Research studies focusing on issues related to sexual health and well-being (one from 2009). Better erections or significant effects in cases of erectile dysfunction. It affects prostate health and size. It can increase sperm motility and quality.
Women take Maca peruviana
to relieve cramps, nervousness and pain - premenstrual syndrome. In older age, it helps with specific symptoms of menopause - hot flashes, excessive sweating, insomnia. A study conducted in 2015 confirmed its positive effect on reducing depression in postmenopausal women.
Students, athletes take Maca Peruvian
To improve memory and attention, it is being studied for use in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease. It helps athletes replenish vitamins and minerals. A 2009 study conducted on professional cyclists proved that 14 days of maca has a positive effect. It is therefore also used to stimulate the body as a whole, as a supplement to increase energy and performance.
You can buy Maca peruviana today in the form of Maca powder, or packaged in precise doses in health-safe capsules. There are no known exact, health-safe dosages. However, a safely tested dosage is 3g per day for 4 months. It is not recommended for pregnant women and those suffering from thyroid disease. Maca peruviana is one of those examples of traditional medicine where a product used for literally thousands of years is only gaining popularity in recent years, based on rigorous scientific research, when we find that legends and myths are based on the actual properties and substances that a given plant actually contains.
