Maca is a sacred medicinal root vegetable that belongs to the Brassicaceae family and only grows around 4000m above sea level in a remote part of the Peruvian Andes. Maca is a nutritional powerhouse that is dense in amino acids, vitamins and minerals. It is also an adaptogen, which means that it supports overall health and strength. Research has revealed that maca works to boost the overall physical functioning of the body as well as to lift mood. The Incan people call maca the “food of the brain” and consider it their most sacred plant that brings happiness and balance back to their body during stress. What is unique about maca is that it comes in 3 colors, with seeds from any color producing all 3 colors again.
Maca as an Adaptogen
Maca root, like ginseng, is also an adaptogen. Adaptogens are substances that raise the physical body’s state of resistance to diseases through physiological health and emotional health improvements. These effects make maca a broad-based superfood that in many cases is able to balance and rejuvenate overwhelmed, tired adrenal glands and other aspects of the hormonal system, unlike coffee which stresses the adrenal glands. Over time, use of maca can lead to several benefits including greater energy, stamina, improved mood, and the ability to handle stress.
