Lepidium mayenil or maca
root is also known commonly as Peruvian ginseng. This tuber root has usages
that date back to the 15th century. Peruvian natives simply ate the root raw,
boiled or otherwise cooked because they liked it and there was plenty of it
available. It became a dietary staple for them in fact. There are also rumors
that state that maca root was used as far back as 2000 years ago as a sexual
stimulant and stamina increaser.
These radish-like plants
require very specific growing conditions. It seems to thrive solely on the
glaciated slopes of the Andes. The best altitude for accommodating its fruition
is between 12,000 and 15,000 feet above sea level. The country of Peru is in
the process of proving that there is a 120 to 200 percent increase in sexual
endurance, general physical stamina, an increased ability to cope with
stressors - and an increase in the activity of spermatazoids when taking maca
root supplementation.
The maca root is made up
from:
ˇ
Calcium;
ˇ
Potassium;
ˇ
Iron;
ˇ
magnesium;
ˇ
Phosphorous;
ˇ
Zinc;
ˇ
6 plant sterols;
ˇ
20 essential fatty acids;
ˇ
Lipids;
ˇ
Fiber;
ˇ
Carbohydrates;
ˇ
Proteins;
ˇ
Amino acids;
Maca root can be eaten
in its root form, brewed into a tea, or it can be powdered for use in various
recipes. The possible uses for maca root include:
ˇ
Stimulating a significant increase in libido
amongst both men and women;
ˇ
Increasing the activity of sperm;
ˇ
Increasing the generalized physical stamina
levels in both men and women;
ˇ
Delivering a general sense of well being;
ˇ
Increasing mental clarity and the powers of
concentration;
ˇ
and more!
The maca root is under
heavy study presently and the future is looking good to say the least. It
should be noted that maca plants are considered an endangered species and
should be protected as such. There have been no unpleasant side effects or
toxicity issues associated with maca roots.
