THINGS YOU SHOULD

KNOW ABOUT MACA

A food supplement with many benefits
Tranetta Sices
HW499 Unit 4
 Maca…… so what exactly is this???
 The maca plant, known scientifically as Lepidium meyenii , is sometimes referred
to as Peruvian ginseng.
 It mainly grows in the Andes of central Peru, in harsh conditions and at very high
altitudes — above 13,000 feet (4,000 meters).
 Maca is a cruciferous vegetable and therefore related to broccoli, cauliflower,
cabbage and kale . It has a long history of culinary and medicinal use in Peru

 References:
National Academy of Science. Lost Crops of the Incas Little-Known Plants of
the Andes with Promise for Worldwide Cultivation . Available at:
http://books.nap.edu/books/030904264X/html/57.html
 Basic information on Maca
 Where you can find more information on
 Benefits.
 Precautions
 https://www.bing.com/videos/search?q=maca&view=detail&mid=B751C7743A7BC640
256FB751C7743A7BC640256F&FORM=VIRE
 Benefits of Maca Root

* balances mood (my favorite benefit)
• strengthens the skin
• increases energy
• increases libido and fertility
• better sleep
• helps your body adapt to stress
• increases memory and brain power
• anti-aging properties
• anti-acne properties
• increases endurance and stamina
• reduces symptoms of PMS and menopause
• helps to reduce aches and pains
• strengthens hair and reduces hair loss
 Reference: Muhammad, Z. 2002. A. Constituents of Lepidium meyenii 'maca'.
Phytochemistry
 Maca is LIKELY SAFE for most people when taken in amounts found in foods.
Maca is POSSIBLY SAFE when taken by mouth in larger amounts as medicine (up
to 3 grams daily) for up to 4 months. Maca seems to be tolerated by most people.
 Precautions & warnings:
 Pregnancy and breast-feeding:
Hormone-sensitive Extracts from maca might act like estrogen.
 Before taking this product, talk with your health professional if you take any
medications.

 Reference:
Lee, K. J., Dabrowski, K., Rinchard, J., and et al. Supplementation of maca
 Maca is a great source of
 B12
 B1
 B2,
C
 E.
 Also a rich source of protein trace elements such as iron, calcium, zinc, and
magnesium
 There are many benefits to consider

 Talk to your doctor before starting

 Use the references provided to research

further information if interested.

 Any questions?????