Superfoods - Nutrient Rich Foods - Maca

Question 1

Maca:
Description

Answer 1

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

Question 2

Maca:
Energetic

Answer 2

Warm, sweet (nutritive), moist, Yin

Question 3

Maca:
Composition

Answer 3

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

Question 4

Maca:
Benefits and clinical applications

Answer 4

• Fertility and sexual function
• Enhances energy and cognition

Question 5

Maca:
Fertility and sexual function

Answer 5

• 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’.

Question 6

Maca: enhances energy and cognition

Answer 6

• 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

Question 7

Maca:
Practical uses

Answer 7

• 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