Superfood likened to ginseng, little known but extremely good for sex

This "superfood" is said to energize the body, increase concentration and help users achieve orgasm.

Amazing uses of Peruvian ginseng

Recently, the British newspaper The Sun published an article about the benefits of maca root.

The maca plant, also known as Lepidium meyenii or Peruvian ginseng , is native to the Andes Mountains (South America) and has been cultivated for thousands of years.

Traditionally, maca has been used as a food or medicine to treat respiratory and joint diseases. But now, it is known as a "superfood" and is loved by many celebrities.

Actress Jennifer Aniston and Victoria's Secret angel Miranda Kerr often mix maca powder into smoothies, while model Daisy Lowe sprinkles it on chocolate cake.

The maca plant is also known as Lepidium meyenii or Peruvian ginseng.

And just a small serving of maca has an effect.

100g of maca contains about 15g of protein - about the same as in shrimp, and more than Greek yogurt and cottage cheese.

This root vegetable is also rich in iron, vitamin B2, fiber, calcium and zinc – all of which are great for your mind, body and skin.

The best thing is that maca is quite tasty. It has a sweet and slightly nutty taste - perfect for mixing into smoothies and porridge.

So what are the potential health benefits of maca?

1. Increase sexual desire

The most widely reported benefit of adding maca to the diet is increased libido.

A 2002 study found that men who took either 1.5g or 3g of maca per day had higher sexual desire than those who took a placebo.

Two other reports in a 2010 review demonstrated significant positive changes in sexual desire in both men and women.

And scientists in Spain in 2020 found that taking 2g of maca daily for 12 weeks significantly improved sperm concentration.

2. Reduce erectile dysfunction

While the evidence is limited, some studies suggest that maca may benefit people with erectile dysfunction.

A study in rats found that after 15 days of taking maca, the animals had increased sexual behavior and improved sexual ability.

Another study looked at the effects of consuming 2.4 grams of maca root daily for three months. Those taking the supplement saw a significant increase in sexual health compared to those taking a placebo.

Maca is rich in iron, vitamin B2, fiber, calcium and zinc.

3. Increase energy

Some scientists believe that maca may help boost energy — similar to caffeine.

In 2016, a research team in Peru found that taking maca for 12 weeks improved energy levels compared to a placebo group.

Scientists don't understand exactly why, but some believe it may be due to the stability of blood sugar levels.

Maca also contains B vitamins and iron – known to help maintain long-lasting energy and fight fatigue.

4. Improve mood

Maca is said to help the body adapt to or combat anxiety, stress and depression.

It contains flavonoids - a group of natural chemicals known for their antioxidant effects. These substances are believed to help improve mood and reduce anxiety and depression.

There aren't many studies specifically focused on maca, but a 2015 study found that flavonoids may reduce symptoms of depression in postmenopausal women in China.

Another study found that participants experienced reduced feelings of anxiety after taking flavonoids.

5. Enhance memory

A 2011 study found evidence that maca can enhance memory and learning in mice.

A review three years later came to the same conclusion, suggesting it could help treat Alzheimer's disease in the future.

6. Lower blood pressure

Some experts believe that maca may help lower blood pressure.

Research found that taking 3.3 grams of maca daily for three months helped lower blood pressure.

7. Reduces menopausal symptoms

Studies show that people going through menopause can benefit greatly from taking maca.

Researchers at Baylor University in Waco, Texas, found it helped relieve a number of symptoms, including hot flashes and disrupted sleep.

Another study in Poland and Australia showed that night sweats may also be reduced.

Maca is available in many forms, including capsules and powders that are easy to swallow. They can be taken straight or added to smoothies or porridge. As with all supplements, if you want to use maca, you should talk to a healthcare professional before taking it.