Maca - The Superfood Beauty Secret

Maca, Lepidium meyenii or Peruvian ginseng - no matter how the superroot is referred to, it's packed with benefits for both the skin and hair. The superfood is native to the Peruvian Andres, growing at an altitude between 3 500 and 4 500 meters, resulting in the plant being exposed to extreme weather conditions such as extreme temperature fluctuations, gushing winds and intensive exposure to UV rays. All these factors result in a plant that is extraordinarily robust and resistant.

Indigenous Peruvian tribes have used the plant to boost energy and performance levels for 2,000 years. Not only does the marvellous root enhance strength but is a real glow-getter, improving the skin's radiance and luminosity. Furthermore, maca can smooth over fine lines and stimulate cell renewal making it an excellent component for mature, dry or tired-looking. lacklustre skin. The Peruvian plant supports the skin in aging gracefully - in a purely natural way.

Maca is not solely limited to its beauty benefits. It boasts numerous advantages as a nutritional supplement. The root is consumed in its raw and cooked form in South America, but can also be used as a powder. It is a nutrient-dense root with stimulating properties that are rich in protein, complex carbohydrates, fibre, various vitamins, phosphor, iron and copper. The simplest way to enjoy maca is in its powder form which has a nutty, slightly earthy flavour making it ideal as an additive for smoothies and juice, but it can also be added to muesli, energy bars or pastries. Start enjoying the effects of maca by incorporating the smoothie recipe below:

Maca Super Smoothie

Ingredients

• 250 ml plant milk (almond, soy or oats)
• 2 large bananas (fresh or frozen)
• 1 Tbsp maca powder
• 1 Tbsp peanut butter
• 1 vanilla pod

Method

• Cut the pod lengthwise to remove the seeds.
• Mix the seeds and the remaining ingredients in a blender.
• Blend until creamy, pour into a glass and enjoy.