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by Carmen Mattes, Master Herbalist
When shopping for a Maca supplement, buy only pure Maca from
reputable companies that have knowledge and expertise in Maca.
Specifically:
Look for a brand that only uses pure, authentic Maca,
traditionally cultivated in the Andean mountain plateaus of
Peru.
Only buy pure Maca root, not the stem, leaves, etc, as some
unscrupulous producers will use the entire plant even though
only the root has medicinal properties. Beware of companies
that cut their Maca root powder with rice flour, maltodextrin
or other cheap fillers and excipients.
Look for Maca that is grown organically and processed
following organic standards for highest quality. Certified
organic Maca is even better because then you can be certain it
is organically farmed.
Choose gelatinized Maca for greater potency and optimal
absorption. Gelatinization is an extrusion process that
removes the starch from the root leaving a more concentrated
powder that is easier to digest. Gelatinized Maca was the form
used in the first human clinical study on Maca that yielded
great results. Plus if buying in the powdered form,
gelatinized Maca tastes much better and mixes easier into food
and beverages.
Because Peru is a third world country, look for companies who
employ fair trade practices with local farmers and support
traditional farming and sustainable harvesting to ensure the
long-term health of Maca and its environment.
Keep in mind that when it comes to Maca, you truly do get what
you pay for. For example, organic certification and
gelatinization are very expensive benefits but for many
consumers it may be worth the extra investment for the peace
of mind, assurance of quality and likely greater efficacy.
“I highly recommend the MacaSure brand of Maca root extract
made by Sequel Naturals. It is the only brand of Certified
Organic Maca available in Canada plus it is gelatinized for
greater potency and absorption. MacaSure is the only brand of
Maca I use myself and in my practice.”
Carmen Mattes
Master Herbalist
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