Peruvian maca: what it is and why it’s good for you

For thousands of years, people have used plants to strengthen their health, boost immunity, balance metabolism, and improve emotional well-being. One such natural product that helps regulate hormonal balance, support the immune system, and enhance libido is Peruvian maca root — a powerful superfood from the cabbage family (Brassicaceae). Commonly known as Peruvian ginseng or Lepidium meyenii, maca has gained worldwide popularity as a natural energy and fertility booster.

What is peruvian maca? Description and properties

Visually, this member of the cruciferous family resembles turnips or radishes. It grows mainly in the highlands of Peru — hence the name Peruvian maca. This root vegetable is one of the most frost-resistant crops cultivated on an industrial scale. Maca is grown at altitudes above 3,800 meters, where daytime temperatures often drop to -10°C.

In Peru, as well as in Brazil and Bolivia, maca root has been used in traditional cuisine for centuries. It is roasted, boiled, mashed into purée, added to soups and stews, and even made into jams and jellies. When dried and ground, maca powder is added to dough for sweet pastries and desserts.

Peruvian maca is a rich source of essential nutrients, including:

• Essential amino acids (leucine, lysine, phenylalanine, arginine, glutamic acid);
• Unsaturated fatty acids (oleic, linoleic, and palmitic);
• Minerals (iron, calcium, copper, zinc, potassium);
• Polyphenols and non-starch polysaccharides;
• Glucosinolates;
• Unique alkaloids (macaamide, macamene, and «maca alkaloid»);

Health benefits of peruvian maca

Regular consumption of organic maca powder may:

• Strengthen the immune system and increase resistance to stress and external factors;
• Help regulate blood pressure and prevent hypertension;
• Balance hormones and support reproductive health (including boosting libido in both men and women);
• Enhance cognitive functions and brain performance;

In traditional Peruvian medicine, maca is considered a natural aphrodisiac and one of the best remedies for infertility. It is also believed to support healthy pregnancy and reduce the risk of fetal brain and CNS abnormalities.

Despite its many health benefits, maca root is not suitable for everyone. It is not recommended for people suffering from insomnia, as it stimulates the nervous system much like an energy drink. Those with thyroid disorders (hyper- or hypothyroidism) should also avoid it, since maca can increase the load on the thyroid gland.

Pure Peruvian maca is a rare and somewhat exotic product, often available only as part of dietary supplements. A great and more accessible alternative is organic flour made from grains, nuts, or seeds — products that also provide rich vitamins, minerals, and overall health support.

Organic flours and natural superfoods by CraftOil

The CraftOil brand — a manufacturer of premium cold-pressed plant oils — offers a wide and constantly expanding range of healthy natural products. On our website, you’ll find hemp flour, pumpkin seed flour, mustard flour, milk thistle meal, black cumin flour, and more.

All CraftOil flours are produced on certified stainless-steel mills, ensuring they do not oxidize or undergo any chemical or thermal processing. Each batch is freshly ground on the day of purchase, guaranteeing maximum freshness and purity.

We ship across Ukraine and Europe and guarantee the highest quality of organic products.
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