Maca

🌿 (Lepidium meyenii) or Peruvian Ginseng

Also known as  Ayak Chichira, or Maino

📖 Overview

Maca is a root vegetable native to the high Andes of Peru, traditionally cultivated at altitudes over 12,000 feet. Revered for centuries as a stamina-enhancing adaptogen, it is known to support energy, hormonal balance, fertility, and resilience to stress. Though not related to ginseng, it shares many tonifying properties, earning it the nickname “Peruvian Ginseng.”

Maca is available in various phenotypes—most notably yellow, red, and black—each with distinct traditional and studied benefits.

📜 Traditional Use in Herbal Systems

• Andean Medicine: Used for thousands of years to enhance fertility, vitality, and physical strength

• Inca Warriors: Consumed Maca before battle for endurance and recovery

• Ayurvedic Comparison: Similar to Rasayana herbs like Ashwagandha and Shatavari in its adaptogenic and rejuvenative qualities

🍵 Suggested Use

• Powder: 1–3 teaspoons daily in smoothies, warm drinks, or porridge

• Capsules/Tablets: For energy, mood, and hormonal support

• Gelatinized Maca: Easier to digest, especially for those with sensitive digestion

• Tincture or Blend: Combined with other adaptogens for stress and hormonal regulation

🔬 Scientific Research & References

Modern research supports many of Maca’s traditional uses:

• Hormonal Balance: May support endocrine function without altering hormone levels directly [1]

• Fertility Support: Shown to improve sperm count and motility, and support female reproductive health [2]

• Mood & Adaptogen Benefits: Helps reduce symptoms of stress, anxiety, and mild depression [3]

• Energy & Stamina: Enhances athletic performance and oxygen utilization at high altitude [4]

References:

1. Brooks, N. A., et al. (2008). Beneficial effects of Lepidium meyenii on psychological symptoms and measures of sexual dysfunction in postmenopausal women. Menopause, 15(6), 1157–1162.

2. Gonzales, G. F., et al. (2001). Lepidium meyenii improved semen parameters in adult men. Asian Journal of Andrology, 3(4), 301–303.

3. Stojanovska, L., et al. (2015). Maca reduces blood pressure and depression in Chinese postmenopausal women. Climacteric, 18(1), 69–78.

4. Stone, M., et al. (2009). Maca supplementation improves endurance performance. Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 122(2), 448–452.

⚠️ Cautions & Contraindications

• Maca is generally well-tolerated and non-toxic

• May cause overstimulation in very high doses

• Individuals with thyroid conditions should consult a practitioner due to its goitrogenic compounds

• Choose gelatinized maca if prone to digestive upset

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  "These products feature Maca, traditionally used to support general wellness. This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any disease."