A Peruvian root and staple part of the Peruvian diet. Grown at the highest altitude of any known plant in barren soil, high winds and extreme temperatures - this root assists with the strength to take on challenges in even the most extreme of circumstances.
It balances hormones and is great for growth and stamina - mental or physical. Has been likened to viagra for virility - except its a natural form. It is also great to strengthen bones and teeth. It is full of magnesium and calcium and can be added to cereal or smoothies.
Start small (1/2 teaspoon daily) and increase as required.
It is common to experience a healing reaction and best to start with 1/4 to a 1/2 teaspoon daily.
Maca - Lepidium Peruvianum Chacon or Lepidium Meyenii Walpers
Maca comes from the Junin plateaus of the Andean mountains in Peru's central highlands. At altitudes of 12,500 to 14,500 ft, in inhospitable regions, it is the highest known growing plant. With oscillating temperatures between 20 above and 25 degrees below zero and poor oxygen, the plant thrives in intense and violent conditions where the terrain is very rocky and yet the soil highly mineral rich. It is a root vegetable - purple or cream when harvested, and comes from the carrot, radish and parsnip family.
Traditionally used both medicinally and as an everyday food, today it is widely used by the native people - from toddlers to the elderly and even for animals. Maca is known to enhance fertility, and is also used for libido and energy. Its use has been dated back since 8,000BC by archaeologists and domesticated by the predecessors of the Incas. It's has a vital importance in the history of Peru and has been named one of the 'Lost Crops of the Incas'.
Nutritionally it has a high lipid content with primary fatty acids - linoleic acid, palmitic acid and oleic acid. Maca contains four alkaloids proven scientifically to nourish the endocrine glands and reproductive system. The high level of absorbable calcium and magnesium explains why it has been successfully used to prevent and reverse osteoporosis. It has a high content of phosphorous and iron and trace minerals include zinc, iodine, copper, selenium, bismuth, manganese, silica and B vitamins. It is rich in sterols: sitosterol, ampestrol, ergosterol, brassicasterol and ergostadienol.
Maca's ability to adapt and survive in the most inhospitable places makes it an adaptogen. It has special medicinal properties in that it can help the body maintain its individual equilibrium. Adaptogens assist a dysfunctioning system back to normal balance helping the body deal with varying symptoms including stress, immunity, fatigue, hormonal imbalances, blood pressure conditions. Stabilising the body, maca boosts vitality and acts on the hypophysis, the hypothalamus and the supra-renal glands that produce adrenalin. It levels the release of adrenalin, the fight or flight hormone. Because immune system function and endocrine gland balance are so closely related, Maca often notably enhances immune system functioning.
Traditionally recommended for:
Balancing endocrine &, hormonal systems
Enhancing fertility &, libido
Supporting menopausal &, menstrual cycles
Boosting stamina, strength &, energy
Developing healthy teeth &, bones
Supplementing diets for breastfeeding &, children
Revitalising middle &, older age men &, women
Energising both mentally &, physically
Immunity Enhancement
Treating Malnutrition
Contains:
59% Carbohydrate
21% Vitamins and minerals: High in Absorbable Magnesium &, Calcium, Phosphorous, Iron &, trace minerals include zinc, iodine, copper, selenium, bismuth, manganese, silica, B vitamins.
10% Protein: Important Amino Acids
Important primary fatty acids - linoleic acid, palmatic acid and oleic acid, Rich sterols source - sitosterol, ampestrol, ergosterol, brassicasterol, ergstadienol
Alkaloids - proven in scientific investigation to nourish the endocrine glands including the reproductive system, tannins, saponins and sterols
Nutritional purposes: 1 teaspoon (2-3 gms) per day
Medicinal use: 2 teaspoons (4-5gms) per day
Food use: The Peruvians often take 3-5 gms per day
To take: Mix with water, milk &, syrup, juice, smoothies or add to cakes, sweets or even savoury dishes. Added to salads, dips or pate. Can be eaten off the spoon!

Raw Intent provide natural superfoods, wholefoods, supplements, health, make-up and bodycare products to enhance vitality, well being, personal and ethical growth.
Vitality, Balance and Life force are essential to our everyday maintenance. Our fuel is key to our expression and ability to manage on a daily basis. Getting this balance is an individual and ongoing process. With superfoods, quality oils, supplements and condiments we can develop a new way of eating which is practical, nutritious and very tasty

Please note all properties and information given is based on traditional and published knowledge and experience. We do not claim to cure any illness, and if treatment is necessary please consult a registered physician or specialist.