Maca

At a Glance

Common name

Maca

Scientific name

Lepidium meyenii

Family

Brassicaceae

Region

South America

Plant part

Root (hypocotyl)

Caffeine

Caffeine Free

Evidence

Limited

Safety review

Safety information on file

Botanical Description

A low-growing biennial rosette surviving above 4,000 m, with frilly, mat-like leaves close to the ground and a fleshy, turnip-shaped taproot in cream, yellow, red, or purple. The root is the edible and medicinal part and tolerates frost, wind, and thin mountain soils that few crops survive.

Also known as: Peruvian Ginseng, Maca Root

Historical Background

Maca has been cultivated in the Junín plateau of the central Andes for at least 2,000 years and was a staple of Inca warriors, who, by tradition, ate it before campaigns for strength. It remained a local highland food until the late 20th century, when it was marketed globally as a 'Peruvian ginseng' for energy and libido.

Earliest recorded uses: Domesticated in the Andes ~2,000 years ago; noted by Spanish chroniclers in the 16th century as a staple and fertility food.

Cultural significance: Maca is a cultural symbol of Andean agriculture, adapted to extreme altitude where almost nothing else grows; Peru recognizes it as a heritage crop and has contested foreign patents on maca-derived products as biopiracy.

1. ~2,000 years ago

   Domesticated in the central Andes.

2. 16th c.

   Spanish chroniclers record maca as a highland staple and fertility food.

3. 1990s+

   Marketed internationally as 'Peruvian ginseng.'

Traditional Uses

These uses document historical traditions and do not imply proven effectiveness.

Flavor & Aroma

Aroma: Earthy, slightly caramelized

Tea Preparation

Modern Evidence

Maca root is studied for energy, libido, and mood. A small number of trials in men report modest improvements in subjective energy and sexual desire, but evidence is limited, studies are small, and effects on testosterone are not established. Maca is best understood as a nutritious highland food rather than a proven treatment for sexual dysfunction or low testosterone.

Evidence levels describe the state of research for the traditional use discussed here, not a recommendation. Historical use does not imply effectiveness.