More pumpkin goodness for you. These little bites are loaded with goodness from hemp and chia to maca powder and lucuma. Hemp seeds and chia are pretty common these days so let’s dive into the benefits of maca and lucuma.
Maca benefits may include increased energy levels, vitality and endurance, healthy sexual function and libido, reduced anxiety and stress, healthy brain function and balancing healthy hormone levels to help relieve symptoms of menopause such as hot flashes.
Lucuma has been used for centuries in South America for its medicinal properties, according to a report from the Third World Network. Rutgers University conducted a study that evaluated the anti-inflammatory effect of lucuma extract on wound healing and skin aging. Results of the trial determined that lucuma significantly increased wound closure and promoted tissue regeneration. The report of the study concluded that lucuma may have anti-inflammatory, anti-aging and skin-repair effects on human skin. The results of this study drove Rutger’s University to apply for a patent on lucuma extracts, particularly the oil. It is also a low-glycemic sweetener.
These require no cooking. You will need a food processor.
Ingredients:
1/2 cup of organic pumpkin puree
10 medjool dates (soaked in warm water for 30 minutes and pitted)
1/3 cup hemp seeds
1/3 cup chia seeds
1 tbsp maca powder
1 tbsp lucuma powder
1.5 tsp pumpkin pie spice
Put all ingredients in the food processor and process until smooth. Scoop out into a bowl and refridgerate for 1 hour. Using a small cookie scoop, scoop and roll into balls. You should get a dozen balls. Store in the fridge.
Serving size: 2 bites
Recipe by Raw Chef Debra Garner
To learn more about the raw food/plant-based diet and Debra’s services please visit her website.
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