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Why We Love Maca: Top Benefits of this Amazing Adaptogenic Herb

Published on July 26, 2018


As a caffeine-free, plant-based superfood, it's hard not to love Maca. Not only can Maca contribute to overall well-being, it can balance hormone levels, boost energy, and support a healthy libido.* This versatile adaptogenic herb helps the body adapt and deal with different stressors so you can live a well-balanced life.* And it's safe and easy to add into your everyday routine.

What is Maca? 

Maca sourcing illustration

Maca, Lepidium meyenii, is an indigenous Andean vegetable that has been grown and cultivated as a root crop for at least 2,000 years. Used both nutritionally and medicinally, Maca grows wild in Peru, Bolivia, Paraguay, and Argentina, but has primarily been cultivated in the highlands of the Peruvian Andes. Even though Maca has become quite popular in the last decade, deservedly so, it has been used as an important food since the days of the Inca warriors in Peru.* Maca looks similar to radishes or turnips and the roots can be various colors such as yellow, purple, or black.

Gaia Herbs Maca is gelatinized, vegan, gluten-free, GMO-free, and 100% Certified Organic.

Unlike raw Maca powder, Gaia Herbs Maca powder has undergone gelatinization, which is a steam and pressure extraction method that transforms the active constituents. This process results in Maca Powder that is more easily digestible and rapidly absorbed. Gaia's gelatinization methods are aligned with the way this root has been traditionally consumed by the indigenous people of the Andes. Our process does not involve the use of gelatin, therefore making this product 100% vegan.

Benefits of Maca:

Maca herb illustration

Maca can boost energy and mood

Maca has been shown to provide sustained energy throughout the day without the jittery crash of caffeine.* It can help you feel more awake and energized so you're able to appreciate each moment and focus on the things that matter. By maintaining positive energy levels throughout the day, Maca may also help improve mood.* It's a delicious addition to your superfood smoothie with our plant-based performance enhancers MacaBoost® Cacao-Ginger and MacaBoost® Vanilla-Chai.

Maca may enhance sex drive and support a healthy libido

Known as a prized aphrodisiac, Maca supports men's health and optimizes healthy performance.* Maca has been shown in clinical studies to support men's reproductive health, including healthy sexual libido and function, and normal prostate and sperm function throughout many ages and stages of life.*

Maca also has a long history of use for supporting women's reproductive function

Maca illustration with male and female symbols surrounding

It has been studied clinically to support a balanced transition through menopause, and it does so without particularly influencing sex hormone levels.* Maca tonifies the female reproductive system and may enhance arousal and sexual desire.* It can also help with fertility.* Studies have shown that Maca may benefit psychological symptoms and sexual function in postmenopausal women.*

Maca can help balance hormone levels

By nourishing and stimulating the adrenal glands, Maca Root can help balance hormone levels.* As an adaptogenic herb, Maca supports normal hormone production and supports the body's natural liver detoxification.* Maca has been shown to help with hormonal issues, including PMS, menopause, and hot flashes.*

Maca is an adaptogenic superfood

Maca illustration

Maca Root is a nutritional powerhouse, providing key macro and micronutrients, and unique plant compounds to support an active human body. Maca Powder is an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, copper, zinc, calcium, and iron. It contains all eight essential amino acids and plenty of phytonutrients. Making Maca a part of your daily diet is simple with these delicious Maca Powder recipes! Maca latte, anyone?

Make room for Maca

With an impressive list of benefits, Maca can help complement a healthy lifestyle. Maca is a mood-boosting, energizing, libido-enhancing superfood that's easy to add into your daily life. Browse our site for a variety of Maca products to help you get started.