Mike is the co-founder of Adapt. He holds a degree in neuroscience and is currently at St. Andrews Medical School. When not researching new formulations or speaking with customers, you'll find him experimenting with different ways to help people get that extra 10% out of life.
Maca root, sometimes called "Peruvian ginseng," is more than just another trendy superfood. It's a nutritional powerhouse with centuries of use in traditional medicine—and increasingly backed by science—for boosting energy, hormonal balance, and overall vitality. Grown in the high altitudes of the Andes, Maca thrives where few plants can, which might explain its resilience-boosting reputation.
What is Maca Root?
Maca (Lepidium meyenii) is a cruciferous vegetable—think broccoli or kale—but its magic lies in its root. Indigenous Peruvians have been cultivating it for over 2,000 years, using it as food and medicine. Maca comes in several varieties (yellow, red, black), each with its own unique profile of benefits.
Today, Maca is commonly sold as a powder or in supplement form, easily added to smoothies, coffee, or even baked goods. It’s known for its slightly nutty, earthy flavor and, more importantly, its impressive health benefits.
Science-Backed Benefits of Maca
Maca’s reputation as an energy booster is perhaps its most well-known feature, and for good reason. Unlike caffeine, which can leave you jittery and prone to crashes, Maca provides a steady, natural uplift. Studies, including one from 2016 focusing on athletes, show improved endurance and reduced fatigue after regular Maca supplementation. If you find yourself dragging through the afternoon, adding a teaspoon of Maca to your coffee or smoothie could help you power through—minus the caffeine jitters.
But Maca’s benefits go far beyond energy. It’s also celebrated for its ability to support hormonal balance. This adaptogen interacts with the body’s hypothalamus and pituitary glands, helping regulate hormone production. For women, research has shown that Maca can reduce menopause symptoms like hot flashes and night sweats, while men may benefit from improved fertility, with studies noting increases in sperm count and motility. What’s key here is that Maca doesn’t add hormones; it works with your body to optimize its own systems, acting as a gentle yet effective balancer.
Maca’s impact isn’t limited to the physical—it also shines in areas of mental well-being. Emerging studies suggest it may reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, likely thanks to its adaptogenic properties and nutrient density. By nourishing the body with essential vitamins like C, B6, and niacin, and minerals like iron and potassium, Maca supports overall brain health and emotional resilience.
Another notable benefit? Libido and sexual health. Maca has earned a reputation as a natural aphrodisiac, with multiple studies affirming its ability to enhance sexual desire in both men and women. For those experiencing sexual dysfunction, particularly linked to antidepressants, Maca has shown promise in improving satisfaction and performance.
Exploring Alternatives to Maca Root
While Maca is a powerhouse adaptogen, other natural options can provide similar benefits depending on your needs. Cordyceps, a medicinal mushroom, is particularly effective for enhancing energy and stamina by improving oxygen utilisation and boosting ATP production—making it a great option for athletes or anyone dealing with fatigue. Ashwagandha is well-known for reducing stress and balancing hormones, particularly by lowering cortisol levels. Ginseng shines when it comes to boosting mental clarity and overall vitality.
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