Nutrition II - Superfoods - Maca Flashcards
Maca:
Description
AKA. Lepidium meyenii
Maca (or Peruvian ginseng), originates from South America. The plant part use is the radish-like tuba, which comprises the hypocotyl and root. The root can vary in colour from white to black with reported variations in biological activity. Maca has a long history of use for energy, endurance and sexual health
Hypocotyl = stem-like structure between the root and cotyledons of a germinating seedling
Maca:
Energetic
Warm, sweet (nutritive), moist, Yin
Maca:
Composition
Contains:
* Iron, copper, manganese, potassium, calcium
* Vitamins C, B2, B3, B6
* It is a good source of protein including all essential amino acids
* High in fibre
* Contains a range of lipids including linoleic and oleic fatty acids
* Phytochemicals
Maca:
Benefits and clinical applications
- Fertility and sexual function
- Enhances energy and cognition
Maca:
Fertility and sexual function
- Increases libido, protects against benign prostatic hyperplasia, improves erectile dysfunction, and increases sperm count, motility and semen volume
- Maca does not appear to change serum testosterone and oestrodial levels, but can interfere with androgen receptors. The aphrodisiac properties are related to lipids in maca called ‘macamides’.
Maca: enhances energy and cognition
- Maca can improve mood and cognitive function, which is thought to be through its action on the endocannabinoid system, as well as GABA and choline content
- Provide sustained energy, can also be associated with its warming energetic properties – useful for sports performance and fatigue
Maca:
Practical uses
- The taste is often described as ‘earthy’, ‘nutty’, ‘caramel-like’
- Maca works well in any food or drink requiring a ‘creamy’ taste/texture. The powder can be mixed into porridge, smoothies, juices or water or added to healthy breads or muffins
- Dose: anything between 1 to 20 g. Start with smaller amounts
- Caution: Maca from China has a high chance of contamination and genetic modification
