Maca extract 20:1 | Lepidium meyenii

Maca extract 20:1 | Lepidium meyenii

Properties: Maca, often called “Peruvian” or “feminine” Viagra, has been used for millennia among native tribes of South America as an aphrodisiac. It can also help to relieve the problems with endocrine systems such as menopause or irregular, painful menstruation. In contrast to other plants characterized by these properties, it does not contain phytoestrogens. Nevertheless, modern scientific evidence has confirmed that its active compounds regulate the functioning of endocrine glands and thereby normalize the secretion of hormones, especially the sexual ones. The optimal level of estrogen soothes the symptoms of menopause and benefits the menstrual cycle. What is more, it indirectly prevents the development of osteoporosis. The increase of testosterone level has, on the other hand, a positive impact on the libido – among both sexes. Interestingly, Maca supplementation significantly improves the quality of the sperm and thus, it is also recommended for those men who aim at procreation.

Further, Maca’s root contains high levels of various nutrients – from fatty and amino acids to vitamins and minerals, as well as a wide range of biologically active compounds. Hence, this plant is an extremely effective adaptogen. However, that should not be a surprise, given that Maca itself can adapt to extreme conditions of high Andes, where it naturally grows. Now, it makes perfect sense that even a two-week supplementation with Lepidium meyenii root extract brings a marked improvement in endurance and physical condition. Additionally, Maca benefits the cartilage of the joints, which makes it a perfect addition to a pre-workout shake.

Maca has even more interesting properties. Its supplementation increases the level of acetylcholine in the brain – note that it is a neurotransmitter responsible mainly for processes related to learning. Thereby, Maca improves cognitive skills too. Furthermore, it stimulates the production of collagen, which translates into improved condition of the joints and healthy skin appearance. Last but not least, it protects the cells from free radicals and some toxins. Well, it seems like we’ve found another ginseng – this time in Peru!

Occurrence: Peruvian pepper (Lepidium meyenii), widely known as Maca, is a biennial herb that belongs to the Brassicaceae family and is related to kohlrabi, turnip, cabbage and cauliflower. It is native to Peruvian Andes, where it grows at around 3500-4000 meters above sea level. There are quite a few edible plants that can be found so high in the mountains! Peruvian pepper can endure extreme environmental conditions – it tolerates strong winds, low temperature, and powerful sunlight. The plant has fleshy, bulbous roots of various colors that resemble turnips. They are the herbal raw material. 

In traditional Peruvian medicine Maca has been used for over 2000 years. It is believed that it can invigorate the organism, improve fertility, and relieve unwanted symptoms of menstruation or menopause. The Spanish conquistador Pedro Ciez de León wrote about Maca in the first part of “Chronicles of Peru” (“Crónicas del Perú”) published in 1553. Peruvian pepper arrived in Europe probably around 1536, thanks to Captain Hernando de Soto, who brought it to Spain after the conquest of the Inca empire.

Biochemistry: Maca’s root owes its beneficial properties to multiple biologically active compounds: glucosinolates, macamides, macaenes, alkaloids, tannins, saponins, phytosterols. Macaenes – polyunsaturated fatty acids – and macamides – their nitrogenous derivatives – are found only in maca roots. Additionally, it is rich in nutrients – it contains 59% carbohydrates, 10-16% protein, 8.5% fiber and 2.2% fats. Apart from them, the plant also contains: micro- and macroelements (calcium, iron, copper, zinc, manganese, selenium, sodium and potassium) and vitamins (A, B1, B2, B6, B12, C, E and K).

Fun fact: The root of Peruvian pepper has over 13 different color variations, from white to black. Yellow, red, and black are most common. These variations are called Maca’s ecotypes. They differ not only in color, but also in the size and shape of the root, as well as in some of the properties. For instance, yellow Maca has the strongest influence on fertility, whereas black Maca benefits predominantly concentration and memory abilities. Anthocyanins – water-soluble pigments whose color changes depending on the pH – are the primary cause of these color variations. Other plants rich in anthocyanins are: purple corn, black rice, red cabbage, chokeberry, blueberries, cranberry, blackberries.