Do you find yourself depleted of all energy? Instead loading up on for caffeine or 5 hour energy drinks try maca root instead. Maca is a root from Peru: its a tuber, much like a potato, which offers an amazing array of energy boosting properties for individuals low on energy.

It is a nutritionally dense super-food that contains high amounts of minerals, vitamins, enzymes and essential amino acids. Maca root is rich in B-vitamins, which are considered energy vitamins, and is also a vegetarian source of B-12. Not to mention that it has high levels of bioavailable calcium and magnesium.

Maca stimulates and nourishes the hypothalamus and pituitary glands which are the “master glands” of the body. These glands regulate the other glands, so when in balance they can bring balance to the adrenal, thyroid, pancreas, ovarian and testicular glands.

Maca is endocrine adaptogen. Instead of providing hormones to the body, maca works as an adaptogen which means that it responds to different bodies’ needs individually. It does not contain hormones itself, instead it provides a unique set of nutrients that directly fuel the endocrine system and help the glands to produce vital hormones in precise dosages predetermined by one’s own body.

Maca root has been shown to be beneficial for all sorts of hormonal problems including PMS, menopause, and hot flashes. Maca’s also a fertility enhancer and is best known for improving libido and sexual function, especially in men. For this reason, it’s earned the nickname “nature’s Viagra.”

Cultivated for thousands of years at elevations over 13,500-14,000 feet, maca had been an important food and medicinal supplement for villagers who inhabited the Peruvian highlands.  It has even been used as currency, and even in our modern times still is in some regions.

The Incas found maca so potent that the root was prescribed to warriors in preparation for battles to increase their strength and endurance.  It has been told that outside of war-time, however, warriors were banned from consuming maca due to its ability to increase the libido–a fact confirmed by modern science.  During peaceful times the consumption of maca  was restricted to be used only in the royal court.

When Spaniards conquered Incas, they became aware of maca’s value and collected tribute from the Incas in maca roots for export to Spain.  The Spanish royalty learned of maca’s benefits and used it as energy enhancer and for nutrition.  As the time went on, however, the knowledge of maca’s properties had been lost.  It was not until mid- 20th century that this potent plant was rediscovered and regained its place on the list of power plants.

Usage: It’s recommended to start with a 1/2 teaspoon a day, and work up to a teaspoon or two a day over the course of a few weeks. If you’re taking it daily, it’s best to take a day off each week. The brand I trust  and have used for some time now is from Navitas Naturals, you can find an array of maca root products on their website including recipes on how to consume it.

Sources: Navtias Naturals 

Maca Root