Lepidium meyenii (maca) is an herbaceous biennial plant of the crucifer family native to the high Andes of Peru. It is grown for its fleshy hypocotyl (a fused hypocotyl and taproot), which is used as a root vegetable and a medicinal herb. Its Spanish and Quechua names include maca-maca, maino, ayak chichira, and ayak willku
Maca is a medicinal plant that mainly grows high up in the mountains of Peru in harsh conditions.
Maca is a root vegetable that is high in antioxidants and nutrients, such as vitamin C, copper and iron. Furthermore, it contains various plant compounds, including glucosinolates and polyphenols.
It has been used medicinally for thousands of years and has been shown to enhance sexual health and libido, improve energy, mood and memory; and balance hormone levels.
The main edible part of the plant is the root, which grows underground. It exists in several colors, ranging from white to black.
Maca root is generally dried and consumed in powder form