Not new to the supplement scene but certainly garnering new attention,  Maca Root boasts a bevy of health benefits from weight loss to hormonal balance.

What is Maca Root?

Maca or Lepidium meyenii is a plant grown in, and native to the country of Peru.  It’s also sometimes referred to as Peruvian Ginseng.  The plant itself is cultivated for it’s bulbous root that is used a vegetable.   A cousin to the Radish and Turnip, the Maca Root has been grown for centuries for it’s medicinal properties as an herb and nutritional benefits as a food source.  Folklore suggests that the root was so heavily prized by ancient Incan warriors that they consumed it before battle believing it gave them formidable strength and concentration.  it was also used as an aphrodisiac of sorts as an increase of libido was also experienced after consumption.

What does Maca Root do?

It is believed that Maca Root enhances energy levels, memory, and athletic performance.  In the late 1990’s Maca Root saw a huge surge in popularity for it’s effects on libido and fertility in men and women.  While many believe the Maca Root does indeed give you an added boost in the boudoir, studies have shown that the herb may benefit desire moreso than function.  Additionally Maca Root is related to hormonal balance and overall emotional well being.  There’s a whole generation of health conscious consumers that are just now learning about the benefits of this “super food.”

Does Maca Root work?

The Maca Root has been a staple of the Peruvian diet for centuries.  As a vegetable it’s often eaten similar to that of a potato.  As a ground and dried herb it becomes a powder that can be used as a type of flour.  Consumption of the Maca Root herb is considered safe, although of course you should discuss the addition of any supplement to your diet with your physician or health care provider.

As an athletic performance supplement, die-hard fans swear by it for it’s ability to naturally increase energy levels and concentration without the “crash” associated with other supplements.  For this reason, it’s also been accepted as a weight loss supplement.  It makes sense that if you experience higher energy levels and you’re in a “good mood” you’re more inclined to push out a couple more reps at the gym or take another spin around the neighborhood on your morning jog!  And hey – if it makes you feel a little more amorous as well, there’s nothing wrong with that!

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