Maqui Extraordinary Superfood

Maqui (Aristotelia chilensis) is a small, deep purple berry native to Chilean and Argentine Patagonia. Considered a «superfood» with health-promoting properties, maqui has been consumed by indigenous communities like the Mapuche for centuries, not only for its intense, sweet flavor but also for its powerful medicinal and antioxidant properties.

Beneficios del maqui para la salud

1. Superior antioxidant power

Maqui has one of the highest levels of anthocyanins and polyphenols of any known fruit, surpassing blueberries, acai, and pomegranates. Maqui is rich in delphinidins, which give it its deep purple color. A study published in Food Chemistry showed that maqui has significantly higher antioxidant capacity than other popular fruits.

2. Fights inflammation

The compounds in maqui have natural anti-inflammatory effects, making it an ally against chronic diseases such as:

• Arthritis
• Cardiovascular diseases
• Inflammatory bowel diseases

Maqui extracts have been observed to reduce the production of inflammatory molecules such as COX-2 and certain inflammatory cytokines.

3. Regulates blood sugar

Maqui may help control postprandial glycemia (the rise in blood sugar after eating). In 2015, a Chilean study showed that consuming maqui extract helped significantly reduce fasting glucose levels in prediabetics.

• Increases insulin sensitivity.
• Promotes more efficient carbohydrate metabolism.

4. Promotes cardiovascular health

Preliminary studies show that maqui may reduce the risk of cardiovascular events by improving endothelial function. Thanks to its antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, maqui may:

• Lower blood pressure.
• Improve arterial elasticity.
• Reduce LDL (bad) cholesterol and increase HDL (good) cholesterol.

5. Improves eye health

The anthocyanins present in maqui help protect the retina against blue light damage and aging of eye cells.

• Improves circulation in the eye capillaries.
• It can relieve eye strain, especially in people who spend a lot of time in front of screens.

6. Supports the immune system

Maqui also contains nutrients such as vitamin C, calcium, potassium and iron, which helps to:

• Strengthen the immune system.
• Prevent respiratory infections.
• Increase energy and vitality.

How to consume maqui?

• Fresh (if you’re in southern Chile or Argentina).
• Dried or powdered: Ideal for smoothies, yogurts, and desserts.
• Juice or concentrated extract.
• Capsules or supplements: Widely used for their standardized antioxidant effect.

Tip: When combined with vitamin C, this increases the absorption of its antioxidants.

Does it have any contraindications?

Maqui is safe for most people when consumed in normal amounts. However:

• People taking blood thinners or medications to control diabetes should consult their doctor first, as maqui may enhance their effects.
• If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, it is best to moderate your intake or consult a healthcare professional first.

In summary