Maca

Identity

Common Name

Maca

Scientific Name

Lepidium meyenii

Botanical Family

Brassicaceae

Native Region

High Andes of Peru

Cultivation Regions

Peru, Bolivia

Plant Parts Used

Root (hypocotyl)

Synonyms

Peruvian Ginseng, Maca Root

Caffeine Level

Caffeine Free

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.

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 Information

Research Summary

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 reflect the currently available scientific literature and may change as new research emerges. Where evidence is limited or conflicting, this is stated plainly.

References & Sources