Maca (lepidium meyenii)
Synopsis of maca
Maca is a hardy root vegetable native to the high-altitude regions of the Andes Mountains of Peru, where it grows in extreme weather and nutrient-poor soils above 12,000 feet. Traditionally cultivated for both food and medicine, maca has gained global popularity as a nutritional adaptogen—a plant that helps the body resist physical and emotional stress—best known for its effects on energy, fertility, libido, and hormonal balance.
Maca root is rich in amino acids, vitamins (especially B1, B2, C), minerals (iron, calcium, potassium, and zinc), fiber, and unique bioactive compounds such as macamides, macaenes, and glucosinolates. These compounds are believed to contribute to maca’s effects on endocrine regulation and reproductive health.
Different phenotypes of maca are associated with different colors—yellow, red, and black—each with slightly varied effects:
- Yellow maca: Most common; used for general energy and hormone balance.
- Red maca: Associated with prostate health and bone density.
- Black maca: Traditionally considered the most potent for male fertility, memory, and stamina.
Modern research supports maca’s use for:
- Boosting libido in both men and women
- Improving mood and reducing symptoms of anxiety
- Enhancing physical performance and stamina
- Supporting hormonal balance, particularly during perimenopause and menopause
- Increasing sperm count and motility in men
Maca is typically consumed as a powder, capsule, or gelatinized extract, the latter of which is easier to digest and more concentrated.
Historical Use:
Maca has been cultivated and consumed in Peru for over 2,000 years, where it was considered both a sacred food and a powerful medicine. The Inca civilization used maca as a tonic to increase strength, fertility, and endurance, especially for warriors going into battle. After conquest, it was often given to Spanish soldiers to boost vitality and virility—so much so that restrictions were later placed on its use to prevent overconsumption.
Traditional Andean medicine used maca for a wide range of conditions, including anemia, menstrual irregularities, fatigue, infertility, and mood disorders. It was eaten cooked, dried and reconstituted, or ground into flour for porridges and flatbreads.
Its revered status in Peruvian culture remains strong today. It is still used as a daily tonic in Andean communities and incorporated into both dietary and ceremonial practices. The city of Junín, located near maca’s traditional growing region, hosts annual festivals celebrating the root and its cultural heritage.
Today, maca is known globally as a non-caffeinated energy enhancer, fertility booster, and hormonal adaptogen, connecting ancient high-altitude wisdom with modern wellness strategies.
Maca is used for these health conditions
Adrenal Fatigue (Traditional)
Amenorrhea (Traditional)
Anemia (Traditional)
Anxiety (Traditional)
Athletic and Exercise Aids (Scientific)
Depression (Traditional)
Diabetes (Traditional)
Energy (lack of) (Traditional)
Erectile Dysfunction (Traditional)
Fatigue (Traditional)
Hot Flashes (Traditional)
Infertility (Traditional)
Insomnia (Traditional)
Irritability (Traditional)
Memory and Brain Function (Traditional)
Menopause (Scientific)
Menstrual Irregularity (Traditional)
Menstruation (scant) (Traditional)
Mental Illness (Traditional)
Miscarriage (prevention) (Traditional)
Mood Swings (Traditional)
Muscle Tone (lack of) (Traditional)
Nervous Exhaustion (Traditional)
Nocturnal Emission (Traditional)
Osteoporosis (Traditional)
PMS (general) (Traditional)
Progesterone (low) (Traditional)
Puberty (hormone balancer) (Traditional)
Sex Drive (low) (Scientific)
Stress (Traditional)
Testosterone (low) (Traditional)
maca is used to support these body systems
Adrenal Cortex (Traditional)
Adrenal Glands (Traditional)
Brain (Traditional)
Cortisol (Traditional)
Estrogen (Traditional)
Female Reproductive System (Traditional)
Glandular System (Traditional)
Hypothalamus (Traditional)
Immune System (Traditional)
Male Reproductive System (Scientific)
Ovaries (Traditional)
Pituitary (Traditional)
Progesterone (Traditional)
Reproductive System (Traditional)
Specific Hormones (Traditional)
Testes (Scientific)
Testosterone (Traditional)
Testosterone (Traditional)
Uterus (Traditional)
