Lepidum Meyenii (maca) Being called “Natural Viagra®” by the Discovery Channel, it is a rainforest wonder herb that grows in the Peruvian Andes, which is 3,800 – 4,800 meters (12,000 - 14,000 ft) above sea level.
Maca grows at high altitudes in the Andes is an inhospitable region of intense sunlight, violent winds and below freezing weather. It is one of the few plants that can be cultivated in the harsh climate of the Andes.
At an altitude of 14,000 feet above sea level, just existing is an accomplishment. To put it in perspective, light planes that are not pressurized cannot legally fly above 10,000 feet and yet Lepidium meyenii is grown nearly another mile into the atmosphere.
It is considered a treasure in Peru, South America (known also as the Peruvian Ginseng) To the Chinese it is known as red Betanin. Round in shape like carrot it is rich in zinc, proteins, minerals, iron, potassium, vitamins B1, B2, B, 12, C and E, phosphorus, calcium and essential amino acids required by the human body.
It is also acknowledged as a “Natural Vitality Nutrient” capable of enhancing sexual performance, increase sperm count, refreshing the mind, improving micro circulation, strengthening body systems, reduce stress and increase energy.
It contains macamide and meceaene lepidium plant material which is known to improve sexual functions in both, men and women as well as a nourishing aphrodisiac food for fertility.
The Medical Journal Urology that first published the Viagra® study also published a study confirming the sex-enhancing effects of Lepidum Meyenii. This is very significant for a major medical journal to publish findings on a sex-enhancing herb. (Medical Journal of Urology, April issue, volume #55, 2000)M
Nutritional Profile of Lepidium Meyenii
Lepidum Meyenii (Maca) roots are rich in essential amino acids. The existence of four alkaloids called macaina 1, 2, 3 and 4 has been reported, with Rf values of 0,680, 0346, 0198 and 0851, respectively. Moreover, it represents glucocinolates, benzyl isothiocyanate, p-methoxybenzyl isothiocyanate, carbohydrates, starch, fructose and maltose. The former is broken down in two glucoses, cellulose and lignin, fatty acids and tannins.
Calcium (Ca), with over 100 000 ppm or over 10%, as macronutrients, excelled in the spectrographic chemical analysis conducted with the maca root by Universidad Nacional de Ingeniería in October 1996.
Regarding phosphorus (P), the Nutrition Institute reported values over 183,3 mg % in 1978.
Phosphorus and calcium have a central place in biology: They are responsible for the structural functions affecting the skeleton and soft tissues and for the regulating functions of the neuromuscular transmission and of the chemical and electric stimuli.
85% of phosphorus is found in the skeleton and intervenes in the formation of ATP (Adenosin triphosphate).
Lepidium meyenii (maca) presents 11 g % of proteins in the dry root and 14 g % in the integral paste (Nutrition Institute 1978). Cellulose and lignin have been found in the analysis of the roots, besides carbohydrates, maltose, fructose and tannins. The maca starch contains calcium, phosphorus, iron, fatty acids, and natural oils.
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