Peruvian Maca, or Maca alone, is a tuber of the family of turnip, cabbage and watercress that has important medicinal properties, being traditionally used to increase vitality and libido and is therefore known as a natural energizer.
The scientific name of this medicinal plant is Lepidium meyenii and can be known in other places like Ginseng-dos-Andes or Viagra-dos-Incas. Maca is still considered a superfood because it is rich in essential fiber and fats, nourishing the body and contributing to increased energy and physical vigor.
Maca is relatively easy to find and can be bought in natural products stores in the form of capsules or powder, which can be mixed into vitamins or fruit juices, for example. Its price may vary according to the presentation form, but usually it is in the average from 20 to 30 reais.
For what it serves and benefits
Peruvian Maca traditionally can be used for several purposes, however, the effects with proven scientific effect are:
- Increase libido;
- Reduce anxiety;
- Decrease feelings of depression;
- Optimize hormone production;
- Increase the frequency of erections;
- Increase the sense of well-being;
- Decrease the symptoms of menopause.
Because of these effects, Maca is useful for increasing sexual desire, optimizing the unregulated menstrual cycle, reducing fertility problems, improving hormonal disorders, reducing fatigue and weakness, as well as treating problems of concentration or lack of energy and stress.
In addition, Maca can also be used as a supplement during weight loss processes because, despite not increasing the metabolism and burning of fats, it favors energy levels, leaving the person more willing to exercise and follow the indicated diet by the nutritionist.
How to take
The recommended daily dose of Maca is approximately 3000 mg, divided into 3 times, taken during meals up to a maximum of 4 months.
However, the dosage may vary according to the type of treatment or the problem to be treated. That way, it is always best to consult a nutritionist or a naturopath before using Maca capsules.
Maca can also be consumed as a food, in the form of root or powder, and should be added in the preparation of dishes or drinks, for example, in the proportion of 2 to 3 teaspoons.
Energizing vitamin with Maca and mango
A vitamin prepared using Peruvian Maca root and mango is a great food supplement, which helps decrease fatigue, fatigue and weakness, as well as improves your ability to concentrate and reason.
Ingredients
- 2 teaspoons dry root of Peruvian Maca;
- 2 sleeves cut into pieces;
- 2 teaspoons of flaxseed;
- 2 teaspoons coconut oil;
- 1 lemon juice;
- 4 fresh mint leaves.
Method of preparation
Put all the ingredients and a little mineral water in the blender and beat until obtaining a homogeneous mixture. If necessary add water to dilute a little. This vitamin yields 2 cups.
Possible side effects
This food is usually well tolerated and therefore no side effects are described. However, some people may be allergic to maca, so it is important to try a small dose before, under the guidance of a doctor or nutritionist.
Who should not take
In most people, Peruvian Maca is well tolerated, being widely consumed in the regions of South America, but for safety reasons it should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
In addition, although there is no consensus on the effect of Maca on hormones, Maca should also be avoided without guidance in children or in people with a history of some type of estrogen-dependent disease or cancer such as breast cancer or uterus.
