Maca Root Benefits and Uses

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What is maca root?

Maca (Lepidium meyenii) is the root of a vegetable native to the Andes region of Peru. Maca root is also known as "Peruvian ginseng," even though it doesn't belong to the same botanical family as ginseng. Maca is consumed as a food and is sometimes used to boost energy and libido (sexual drive).

What is maca root good for?

Maca root also promotes natural antioxidants in the body, such as glutathione and superoxide dismutase. Antioxidants help to fight off free radicals, which can damage cells in the body. Some people believe antioxidants can help prevent some health conditions, including heart disease and cancer. 9. Reducing menopause symptoms

Where does Maca come from?

Sometimes known as Peruvian ginseng, maca comes from the root of a plant that grows in the Andes Mountains. The Indigenous people of Peru have used maca as both food and medicine for centuries. Maca belongs to the same family of plants as turnips and broccoli.

What are the side effects of maca root?

Consuming a supplement like maca root may have potential side effects. These side effects may be mild or severe. Little is known about the safety and risks of short-term or long-term use of maca. Side effects of maca root are generally uncommon and mild and may include gastrointestinal symptoms or headaches.

What color is maca root?

The roots of the plants can be red, black, pink, or yellow. As a supplement, maca root is usually sold in the form of dried powder, which is often mixed into smoothies and other beverages. What’s the difference between gelatinized maca and maca powder? What potentially bioactive ingredients does maca have? What are maca’s main benefits?

What is a Maca plant?

The maca plant, also called Lepidium meyenii or “Peruvian ginseng,” is a cruciferous vegetable related to broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, and kale. Native to the high Andean plateaus, it has been cultivated for over 2,000 years and can survive the harsh weather of the Peruvian Andes above 4,000 meters (m) or 13,123 feet (ft).

What Is Maca Root

1. https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/benefits-of-maca-root
2. https://www.verywellhealth.com/ways-maca-may-benefit-your-health-89573
3. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/322511
4. https://www.forbes.com/health/supplements/maca-root-benefits/
5. https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-555/maca/
6. https://www.everydayhealth.com/diet-nutrition/maca-root/guide/
7. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lepidium_meyenii
8. https://draxe.com/nutrition/maca-root-benefits/

Maca Root Information

1. https://examine.com/supplements/maca/
2. https://www.britannica.com/plant/maca