What is Maca Powder?

After many requests for sharing my experience with maca, I wanted to bring you all a post all about one of my favourite adaptogens!

What is maca powder?

Maca (Peruvian ginseng) is a root, similar to ginger in appearance. It’s considered a root vegetable and a medicinal herb.

What are the benefits of maca powder?

Maca is most well-known for its adaptogenic properties, making it a wonderful hormone balancer, especially for women. It is known to promote sexual function and act as an aphrodisiac, increase fertility, support mood and overall energy. Some people react differently to maca powder, so it’s important to remember that everyone is unique – some are quite sensitive to it and only need a little and others don’t feel the effects as much right away. 

What does maca taste like?

It smells and tastes like a very potent butterscotch or caramel flavour. When used in small quantities, it can be a wonderful natural sweetener in smoothies or sweet breakfasts like chia pudding or oats. 

How do I take it?

I personally love adding maca to smoothies, chia pudding, overnight oats or raw desserts. The most important thing to remember when taking maca is to take it for small periods of time to make sure your body doesn’t become “immune” to it. I personally follow the rule of 3-6 months on, 3-6 months off to get the full benefits, for a maximum of 1 year. Please consult with your physician before consuming maca, as it may not be suitable for many health conditions such as pregnancy. Be sure to choose gelatinized maca powder if you struggle with digestion, or opt for raw for the most potent source of maca. I personally use gelatinized (does not contain animal gelatin).

If you’re interested in trying maca, try adding 1/4 tsp. to your morning smoothie or to these recipes:

• Healthy Chocolate Hazelnut Spread
• Toasted Coconut Hemp Bars
• Chocolate Coconut Bliss Balls
• Beet, Rose & Maca Latte

My experience with maca

I loved using maca powder to help clear my skin from cystic acne, balance hormones and boost my immune system. I found it easiest to add 1/4 tsp. into my smoothies every morning for consistency. I did this for 3 months. I eventually worked my way up to 1/2 tsp. for another 3 months and then stopped taking it. I love using various superfoods and medicinal herbs to get an abundance of healing foods in my diet.

*photography by John Choi