Sacha inchi (Plukenetia volubilis) is a tropical seed native to the Amazon rainforest. Sacha inchi has been used in traditional medicine for centuries, and is growing more and more popular due to its high concentration of nutrients. Rich in essential fatty acids, proteins, vitamins and minerals such as omega-3s, iron and magnesium, it’s a good source of antioxidants and dietary fiber.
Health Benefits
Sacha inchi has earned its reputation as a “superfood” because it offers an array of health benefits. It contains high levels of omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for maintaining heart health and reducing inflammation. It also contains essential amino acids and vitamins B1, B2, B6, E, K1, magnesium and zinc — all of which are important for maintaining overall health. Finally, sacha inchi is an excellent source of plant-based protein, with every gram constituted of 60% of protein!
Many studies have found that in addition to reducing inflammation, consuming sacha inchi can help lower cholesterol levels, improve digestion and boost the immune system. Sacha inchi is also known to have anti-aging properties, thanks to its high amounts of antioxidants which can fight free radicals that damage cells.
Sacha Inchi is an environmentally sustainable crop that grows naturally in the rain forests of Peru. By harvesting and consuming Sacha Inchi, we are able to preserve these precious natural resources while also helping local communities benefit from the economic opportunities they provide. Furthermore, organic farming techniques are used to cultivate these plants which helps reduce our carbon footprint and protect our planet. In conclusion, Sacha Inchi is a powerful superfood offering an abundance of health benefits while also helping protect our environment.
Sustainability
Consuming Sacha Inchi is a great way to boost your health while also helping protect the environment. Unlike many other crops, Sacha Inchi can be grown without the use of pesticides or other chemicals that pollute our soil and water. This makes it a much more sustainable option than many other crops, as it does not require any unnatural interventions to thrive. In addition, sacha inchi requires very little water to grow and can be harvested multiple times per year, making it an extremely efficient crop that produces a high yield with minimal environmental impact.
Eco-friendly Farming Practices
In addition to its sustainability benefits as a crop itself, sacha inchi farming practices are designed with the environment in mind too. For example, farmers often practice intercropping — growing two or more different crops together — which helps promote biodiversity by providing food sources for beneficial insects like bees and butterflies. It is currently cultivated in Asian countries, like Thailand, China and Vietnam, as well as in Central and South America where, in addition to representing a nutritional alternative, it has become an opportunity for economic development for rural populations.
Uses of Sacha Inchi
Sacha inchi is available in several forms including raw or roasted seeds, oil, powder and capsules. The seeds are an amazing snack. The oil has a pleasant nutty flavor and can be added to salads, smoothies or bread. The powder is a great addition to baked goods and is also an excellent protein supplement in shakes and pancakes. Where I personally find many plant-based proteins difficult to digest, Sacha Inchi remains an easy-to-digest go to for all my vegan protein needs.
With its nutrient-density and environmental benefits, it’s no wonder why Sacha Inchi is becoming such an important part of vegan and non-vegan diets alike. This is why we felt it was such an important ingredient in our PranaCakes formulation. From nutritional benefits to taste enhancement, this ingredient has been a huge value add!