Marvellous Maca: Rooted In Healing
High in the Peruvian mountains grows a root related to the radish and parsnip: Maca Root. The Peruvians have used Maca for generations, not only as a food source but also for its medicinal benefits. Maca Root comes in a variety of colours, including black, white, red, and yellow.
In recent years, Maca Root has gained worldwide recognition for its impressive nutritional profile and unique healing properties. It is particularly valued for its energy-enhancing qualities and “mood-balancing” support.
Specifically, Maca Root Contains:
Phytonutrients
Amino Acids
Fatty Acids
Trace Minerals
Phytohormones
Phytonutrients are special compounds in plants that protect against disease and pests. In the human body, they provide antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and liver-cleansing benefits. Amino Acids are the building blocks of proteins that sustain cell life, transport nutrients to organs, and promote healing.
Fatty Acids, especially Omega Fatty Acids, support cell, organ, brain, and nerve function, and are renowned for reducing heart disease risk. Trace Minerals, essential elements, support chemical and electrical systems in the body, including heart and brain function.
Phytohormones are plant hormones that regulate growth, root formation, and cell division in plants. For humans, they balance the endocrine and nervous systems, boost immunity, and stimulate cell growth.
How Does Maca Root Benefit Us?
Studies show that Maca Root, when taken in powder or capsule form, stabilises the endocrine system, which regulates hormones. These benefits are not limited to women—men often experience relief from prostate issues, along with enhanced libido and vitality.
Maca Root is also celebrated for its energy-boosting properties, making it ideal for morning or early afternoon consumption, rather than at night.
Other benefits of Maca Root include:
Strengthening skin tissue and stimulating collagen production
Reducing hair loss and strengthening hair
Lowering cortisol and stress-related hormones
Alleviating menopause and PMS symptoms
Boosting fertility
Supporting brain function
Improving memory
Promoting better sleep
Maca Root's therapeutic effects largely relate to anti-aging and rejuvenating cell function. It alleviates hormone-related symptoms, supports fertility, and enhances libido in both men and women.
Studies have demonstrated that Maca Root increases sperm count and motility in rats. Red Maca Root, in particular, has been shown to reduce prostate size in rats without affecting testosterone levels. Female mice fed Maca Root experienced increased fertility and stronger embryos, with potential benefits for bone health in osteoarthritis.
A study on Peruvians—who consume the most Maca Root globally—revealed that regular consumption resulted in lower rates of fractures, sickness, body mass index, and blood pressure compared to those who did not include it in their diet.
How Does Maca Root Energise the Benefits of Turmeric?
When combined, these two superfoods amplify their individual benefits, providing a significant energy boost and maximising their healing potential.
Turmeric, renowned for its anti-inflammatory properties, reduces inflammation throughout the body—not just in joints and muscles, but in organs, tissues, cells, and nerves. This reduction in inflammation clears the path for other nutrients, like those from Maca Root, to take effect.
Turmeric has also been shown to aid in reproductive health by addressing conditions such as:
Endometriosis
Uterine and ovarian cysts and fibroids
Premenstrual pain
Menopause
When paired with Maca Root’s hormone-balancing and energy-boosting properties, the duo creates an ideal environment for healing. Turmeric reduces inflammation, while Maca Root revitalises the endocrine system and nourishes cells with energy and vitality, fostering a profound sense of well-being.
Think of inflammation as a barrier. Just as you must scrape off old paint for new paint to adhere properly, you need to eliminate inflammation to allow healing nutrients to penetrate effectively. Combining Turmeric and Maca Root more than triples their individual effects.
How Can You Add Maca Root to Your Diet?
There are many delicious ways to incorporate this energy-boosting superfood into your diet.
In Peru, Maca Root is often cooked or used to make juices and even beer. Elsewhere, it is more commonly consumed in powdered or supplement form. The powdered root is particularly versatile and can be added to foods and beverages such as teas, hot chocolate, and smoothies.
Our favourite way to enjoy Maca Root is in Turmeric Smoothies: combine Maca Root and Tumeric with other key ingredients like Coconut Milk Powder, Ceylon Cinnamon, Flaxseed, Chia Seed, Black Pepper, and Pink Himalayan Sea Salt.
Visit our online tea shop for 100% organic, ethically sourced, sugar-free, vegan teas and blends.
No matter how you choose to consume Maca Root, you’ll likely enjoy increased energy, a stronger sense of well-being, and a renewed zest for life.
Note of Caution: If you have thyroid disease or reproductive cancers, consult your physician or nutritional counsellor before adding Maca Root to your regular diet.
To Your Good Health!
The Taka Tea(m)
