Maqui (pronounced “mah-kee”) is an evergreen shrub from Chile and Argentina. Its berries and juice are used for medicinal purposes.
Contents
Uses
- Fruit Salads
- Soups
- Cakes
- Smoothies
- Juices
- Organic
Benefits
- Studies show that maqui contains anthocyanins, a type of potent antioxidant. Research suggests that consumption of anthocyanins may boost your defense against high blood pressure and high cholesterol. In addition, preliminary studies indicate that anthocyanins may possess anti-cancer properties, fight obesity and enhance heart health.
- In tests on human cells, scientists looked at whether maqui extract helped decrease levels of LDL (“bad”) cholesterol. Results revealed that maqui extract did help reduce LDL cholesterol levels, as well as fight oxidative stress and aid in prevention of atherosclerosis.
- In a more recent study (Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmacology), tests on mice revealed that certain chemicals found in maqui may have helped lessen pain (as well as offered antioxidant benefits and reduced inflammation).
Cautions
- There is not enough information to know if maqui is safe. If you are pregnant or breast-feeding, it’s best to stay on the safe side and avoid use.
Interactions
- We currently have no information for maqui Interactions.
Other Names
Aristotelia chilensis, Baie de Maqui, Chilean Maquei Berry, Chilean Wineberry, Chilean Wine Berry, Clon, Jus de Maqui, Macqui, Macqui Berry, Maquei, Maquei Berry, Maquei Super Fruit, Maqui Berry, Maqui Berry Juice, Maqui Juice, Queldron
References
Source: WebMD, http://www.webmd.com/vitamins-supplements/ingredientmono-1257-maqui.aspx?activeingredientid=1257&activeingredientname=maqui
About Health, http://altmedicine.about.com/od/herbsupplementguide/a/Maqui.htm