Ingredient of the Week – Maca

MACA MACA BURNIN’ LOVE by Suncear Scretchen

Since becoming a student of  integrative nutrition, I have heard the term superfood more times than I can count.  The term basically applies to a food that is very high in nutritional content surpassing that of other mere mortal foods.  Considered to be one such food is maca. Grown, in Peru for centuries, maca is a root related to the radish family and is consumed primarily in powdered form.  It has a multitude of vitamins and minerals such as calcium, potassium, copper, zinc and Vitamins B1, B2 and C.  Its plethora of benefits include:

• Rebuilding the immune system
• Increasing energy and endurance
• Balancing the endocrine system
• Aiding in digestion
• Increasing circulation
• Maintaining memory and focus
• Providing a sense of overall well-being
• Enhancing sexual function

There is no significant flavor that I can detect but the powders are frequently mixed with cacao providing a double whammy of antioxidants and endorphins.  The powders as well as supplements can be found at any health food store.  Here are a couple of smoothie recipes using the maca powder.

Maca Powder, Cacao, Nut Milk, Chard, Dates

Maca Powder, Leafy Greens of choice, Banana, Kiwi, Coconut Water

I mentioned in a blog entry that chocolate was rich in antioxidants which makes it great for the skin.  Since maca blends with cacao so well and is also an antioxidant, I figured it would make a great face mask. I blended some filtered water and the powder along with a tablespoon of honey.   Keep the mask on until dry and wash.  My skin felt exfoliated and tight (in a good way).

So when you need a boost of energy, endorphins or sexual healing, give maca a try.

photo credit

Suncear

Suncear Scretchen has had a life long interest in natural and organic products. After a bout of Graves Disease over 10 years ago, she began a quest of integrated wellness. Her research led her to the Institute of Integrative Nutrition and she is now a Health Coach helping clients lead healthier lifestyles. Her passion for achieving awareness in everything we put on and into our bodies is chronicled in her blog Conscious Chick. She is a Wellness Contributor for Creme Magazine and My TempO! with Morgan. For more info on Health Coaching visit SunCere Wellness.