La maca It is, along with potatoes and cassava, one of the most famous edible tubers worldwide. If you want to know more about her, the time has come to do so.
We are going to tell you what this tuber is like, its origin, its nutritional properties and other questions that we are sure will interest you, so we recommend that you continue reading.
What is maca and what is it for?
Maca or Lepidium meyenii is a plant native to the Peruvian Andes. It belongs to the same family from which well-known vegetables such as broccoli, kale and cauliflower.
In the Andean region, this tuber has been cultivated for centuries, and is highly appreciated both for its nutritional properties and its health benefits.
The edible part of the plant is the root, and it can vary in color between yellow, red, purple and even black. It can be eaten both raw and cooked. It can be the main ingredient of a dish, but it is also used as a condiment to add nuances of flavor to different recipes.
Although outside its place of origin, it is most common to take it as a dietary supplement, whether in the form of powder, capsules or extracts.
Its consumption is common among athletes, as it helps increase energy and improve resistance. In the case of students, Regular consumption of maca increases the ability to concentrate.
It is also used as a sexual stimulant, since it acts on the hypothalamus and pituitary gland, and to reduce stress.
Appearance of maca
The physical appearance may vary depending on the growth stage and the type of root in question, but There are a series of features that we can generally appreciate.
Plant
The maca plant is herbaceous, and its height usually does not exceed 20 centimeters. It is characterized because it produces a basal rosette of leaves that expand above the ground.
Flowers
Maca produces small flowers that can be white or pink. We can see them grouped in clusters at the top of the stems.
Root
The most important part of this plant is its root, which is what is consumed. Its appearance is reminiscent of a carrot or radish, but its color and shape vary depending on the species. Its texture is smooth, although there are also varieties with a rough or slightly wrinkled texture. Inside, the meat of the root is firm and crisp.
Types of maca
When talking about this food we must keep in mind that there is not a single variety of maca. The most common are the following:
- Red maca. It has a sweet and mild flavor and is rich in antioxidants and essential amino acids.
- Yellow maca. Its flavor is spicier than other macas, and stands out for its high content of vitamins A, B and C.
- Black maca. Bitter and earthy in flavor, it is the most difficult to obtain because its production is quite limited. It is especially rich in minerals such as phosphorus, iron and zinc.
Benefits of consuming Andean maca
Maca is almost like aloe vera, in the sense that it is said to have countless properties. Let's see the most important ones.
improves fertility
Some studies suggest that maca consumption can increase the quantity and quality of sperm in men and improve ovarian function in women.
In addition, It has been traditionally used as a natural aphrodisiac, because it is believed to contribute to increasing libido.
Improves hormonal balance
It is claimed that maca helps balance the level of hormones in the body. Especially estrogen, progesterone and testosterone. Hence It is recommended as a remedy in cases of premenstrual syndrome and during menopause.
Increases energy and stamina
It is estimated that its adaptogenic properties help the body adapt and resist more against physical and mental stress. This explains that traditionally has been used to increase energy levels and improve physical resistance in athletes.
Improves mood
There are studies that talk about the positive effects of this tuber on mood, as it helps reduce anxiety levels and improves depression. Phenomena that could be caused by its effects on neurotransmitters and its impact on hormonal balance.
Contributes to bone health
Maca is rich in calcium, magnesium and other minerals that are essential for bone care. Some studies talk about its ability to improve bone density and prevent osteoporosis.
Does maca have contraindications?
Despite being a very beneficial food, there are certain groups of people who should avoid its consumption or consult with their doctor. specialist before starting to take maca regularly. Especially:
- People with thyroid conditions.
- Patients on treatment with anticoagulants.
- Those who suffer from serious or chronic illnesses.
- In cases of kidney or liver failure.
- Pregnant and nursing mothers (due to the high alkaloid content of maca).
How can we take maca?
Since it is a tuber, we can consume it exactly the same as we do with others. For example, we can add it raw to salads, or cook it and add it to different types of stews.
In Andean towns it is common to boil maca in milk for hours over low heat, to obtain a texture similar to that of porridge.
Currently, we can also find it dehydrated in health food stores and increasingly in supermarkets. Which allows us to easily add it to different recipes.. The powdered version is ideal for seasoning a fruit salad, to add it to a smoothie, and even to mix with yogurt or kefir.
Maca is also used to make infusions. All you have to do is bring water to a boil, remove it from the heat, add a teaspoon of maca powder and let it infuse. It can be taken alone, or sweetened with honey or sugar. For a creamier version, you can add a small amount of milk or vegetable drink.
Maca is a tuber of Andean origin that is increasingly present in the daily lives of many people worldwide. Did you know all its properties?