Maca

Species Name: Lepidium meyenii or  L. meyenii.

Also known as: maca-maca, maino, ayak chichira, and ayak willku.

Similar to a radish or turnip, for approximately two thousand years maca has been an important traditional food and medicinal plant in its growing region.

It is regarded as a highly nutritious food and as a medicine that enhances strength and endurance and acts as an aphrodisiac.

During Spanish colonization maca was used as currency.

What is Maca: Maca Maca is historically found in Peru, traditionally grown at altitudes of approximately 3,750-4,350 m (12,500-14,500 feet).

It grows well only in very cold climates in poor soil. Although it has been cultivated outside the Andes, it’s not yet clear that it has the same potency when cultivated outside its natural habitat.

Home remedies using Maca:

Benefits of Maca:

Similar to rice and wheat grains, maca the nutritional value is high. Rich in essential minerals, especially selenium, calcium, magnesium, and iron, it also contains fatty acids such as linolenic acid, palmitic acid, and oleic acids.

Maca is touted for its beneficial effects on sexual function, which could be attributed to its high concentration of protein and other vital nutrients.

Uses of Maca:

Though more in depth studies are needed, some clinical trials have shown that maca extracts can heighten libido, and improve semen quality. In particular, studies on men with sexual dysfunction and known infertility needed. None of the studies conducted so far show any effect of maca on sex hormone levels. No toxicity has been reported.

Traditionally, maca has been used to enhance fertility in people and animals, for libido, energy and other medicinal purposes. Maca's effect on mice has been studied to some extent. After 22 days of Maca treatment, the male mouse’s' mating behavior increases.

Maca can be consumed several ways. Pit-roasted maca hypocotyl is the most common traditional preparation,  and is called matia.

A thick, sweet decoction of maca is made by boiling it in water for several hours (necessary given the altitude). Dried maca roots are also commonly mixed with milk to form porridge.

It is frequently mixed with other vegetables, grains, or potatoes, and can be made into flour for baking. A weak maca beer called chicha de maca is made of fermented maca. Maca may also be blended with water or milk, honey, cinnamon, and fruit, into a type of heath shake.

Side Effects of Maca:

There are no known side effects associated with Maca. Generally, Maca is regarded as a safe herb.