Discover the Truth about Maca, Libido, and Increased Sex Drive

By Sondra Forsyth

A cruciferous root vegetable called maca (Lepidium meyenii) is getting attention these days as a possible aphrodisiac, especially for guys and for postmenopausal women. Not only that, but the root or tuber of the maca rightly deserves the title of superfood, (Move over, kale!) Maca was used by the ancient Incans in Peru for its healing properties, because it’s a nutritional powerhouse of protein, natural sugars, iron, potassium, iodine, magnesium, calcium, and fiber. (It’s still grown in the Andes highlands.)

Maca is most commonly consumed in powdered form, and works well in smoothies, juices, and soups.If you have thyroid issues, take heed as maca can worsen symptoms. However, there is evidence to support increased libido, improved sex drive, good endocrine balance, and more. Here is one useful link: http://www.uofmhealth.org/health-library/hn-4392007

BOOSTING MALE SEX DRIVE AND FERTILITY

Way back in ancient Peru, Incan men consumed maca in order to rekindle desire, overcome erectile dysfunction, and up their sperm count.

STAYING THE COURSE

Beyond the bedroom, maca can give professional athletes and weekend warriors alike more strength, stamina, and energy. Word has it that increased testosterone levels from using maca are one explanation for the improvements, although that hasn’t been formally studied.

COOLING OFF THOSE HOT FLASHES

Maca may be a natural alternative to synthetic hormone replacements for menopausal women. As always, though, ask your own doctor before trying this tactic.

EASING MENSTRUAL CRAMPS

For women who are still menstruating, maca may alleviate cramps and heavy periods.

BANISHING ACNE

Men and women who are plagued with acne at any age may find that maca helps get rid of this unsightly skin condition.

BEATING THE BLUES

If you or someone you love has bouts of mild depression, maca may be a mood lightener with none of the side effects – weight gain, fatigue, emotional flatness – that often accompany conventional antidepressants.

STAVING OFF SENIOR MOMENTS

Many maca lovers say that memory is improved when they enjoy soups made with maca or a fermented drink called maca chicha. Google the term and you’ll find YouTube videos that show you how to make the drink yourself!

CONQUERING CHRONIC FATIGUE

Western medicine has yet to find a remedy for debilitating chronic fatigue syndrome, but the maca camp swears that the energizing effects of maca go a long way toward making CFS sufferers get back in the game.

A final word: Maca is an acquired taste. Most people find the root to be bitter, although it has a pleasant scent not unlike butterscotch. Even so, those who persist do eventually enjoy maca. Why not give this centuries-old healthy veggie a try? Don’t overdo it, but in small doses the root could at the very least make you feel better physically and emotionally as well as more romantic!