Maca and Ashwagandha: The Adaptogenic Superfoods

Maca

Commonly found in the Andes of central Peru, at altitudes of above 13,000 feet, Maca is a cruciferous vegetable, like cauliflower and broccoli, which boasts huge adaptogenic properties.

The Maca root is traditionally dried, ground and consumed as a powder, but it’s commonly available as capsules or liquid extract.

Maca root has been shown to promote hormone balance, boost energy levels and increase stamina, with a number of studies having established the beneficial effects of the Maca root on energy levels for athletes. But its not just athletes that can enjoy the incredible benefits offered by Maca.

• Reduce menopausal symptoms

A review of four studies into Maca’s effect on menopausal women found that the root helped alleviate menopausal symptoms, including poor sleep and hot flushes.

• Boosted energy levels

One study found that cyclists measured an improved speed for a 25-mile bike ride, after taking the supplement for two weeks.

• Boosted brain power

Studies have shown that the root improves learning and memory in test subjects that suffered from memory impairment. This correlates with the Peruvian practice of giving Maca to children to improve their school performance.

Ashwagandha

Ashwagandha is a small shrub with yellow flowers, native to India and North Africa, which had formed a central part of Indian medicine for thousands of years.

Like Maca, Ashwagandha is a powerful adaptogen that rejuvenates the body and reduces inflammation. By enhancing the body’s ability to cope with stress, it helps the body maintain the essential connection between the nervous system and the immune system, keeping them both in top condition.

Ashwagandha’s amazing adaptogenic benefits include:

• Anti-cancer properties

Studies suggest that it may be beneficial for treating several types of cancer, including breast, lung, colon, brain, and ovarian cancer.

• Reduce stress and anxiety

Ashwagandha is best known for its ability to reduce stress. Several controlled human studies have shown that it effectively reduces symptoms in people with stress and anxiety disorders.

• Reduce inflammation

Several studies have shown that Ashwagandha helps decrease inflammation. Studies in humans have found that it increases the activity of natural killer cells; immune cells that fight infection and help you stay healthy, even avoiding heart disease.

Enjoying the adaptogenic superfood benefits today

Consuming adaptogenic plants is the best way to up your intake and enjoy the benefits of adaptogens. And the great news is that Maca and Ashwagandha are available in powder or capsule form, so you have a range of options when it comes to adding these superfoods to your regular diet.

Just try adding this adaptogenic double act into your regular diet and start to feel the stress and fatigue melt away.