Maca, known for its scientific name Lepidium Meyenii, is also known as South American ginseng, and Andean ginseng. It’s a cruciferous vegetable native to the Peruvian Andes.
Macan powder is an excellent source of protein, fiber, and many vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, copper, and iron. It also contains more than 20 amino acids, including all eight essential amino acids and many health-promoting phytonutrients.
Historically, this root vegetable was used as trading currency by ancient Peruvians and was prized for its medicinal properties.
The maca is similar in appearance and size to a turnip, with a green top and roots, and varies in color from yellow to purple and black.
Because of the color, maca has different nutrients. White and yellow maca is the most common, purple maca are rare, and black maca is the most scarce, accounting for less than 3% of total production—the root or hypocotyl of the maca, which is usually ground and used as a powder.
For more than 3,000 years, maca has been prized for its medicinal properties. It is used to treat a range of conditions such as menstrual problems, menopause, stomach cancer, fatigue, stress, and anemia.
It is also an “adaptogen” (the name given to certain herbs, plants, and natural substances) that helps the body naturally adapt to stressors, such as chronic stress, physical and mental challenges, or illness.
Not only that, but maca also provides a lot of important micronutrients and is rich in antioxidants.
Maca has been shown to improve sexual health, balance hormone levels, and boost energy, mood, and memory.