Botanical Name: Lepidium meyenii/peruvianum

Maca root is a cruciferous plant native to the highlands of Peru. It has been used for thousands of years by native Peruvians living at 14,000 feet above sea level to promote vitality, sexuality, and hormone balance in men and women. It is never eaten raw by the indigenous people in Peru.

Note: The botanical name is in dispute in Peru, but the two names (meyenii and peruvianum) do not indicate a separate species.

Traditionally, Maca root is used

• To support reproductive health in men and women in all stages of life*
• To support promotion of vitality, stamina, energy, and mood balance*
• To promote bowel regularity*
• To support healthy endocrine gland function (thyroid, pancreas, adrenal glands, testes, ovaries)*
• To support collagen-based structures (bone, muscles, hair, skin, nails)*

Through scientific research, Maca root has been shown to

• Enhance energy, libido, stamina, and sexual function*
• Promote hormone balance in men and women by increasing the tissue levels of IGF-1 (Insulin Growth Factor-1), which is vital in hormone balancing*
• Have adaptogenic-like effects appropriate to gender and age*
• Promote healthy reproductive function*
• Promote healthy endocrine gland function (thyroid, pancreas, adrenal glands, testes, ovaries)*
• Increase receptors for neurotransmitter hormones (mood, sleep, cognitive function)*
• Support collagen-based structures (bone, muscles, hair, skin, nails)*

Detailed Information:

• Organic Certification Information
• Published third-party scientific research studies on Maca
• Detailed information on Maca
• Interview with Hugo Malaspina, MD on the therapeutic use of Maca
• Medical Journal Reports on Maca
• Author Hattie Describes Her Odyssey from Hormone Replacement to Hormone Boosting Using Maca
• How to use Maca as a Food
• Is Royal Maca beneficial for people with thyroid issues?

General Name: Maca

Scientific Name: Lepidium peruvianum; also known as Lepidium meyenii

Description: The Maca root is a hardy cruciferous vegetable cultivated in an inhospitable region of the Andean Mountains at altitudes from approximately 12,500-14,500 feet. Native Peruvians have used Maca for several thousand years, as a medicinal food to enhance fertility, libido, to support healthy erectile function in men, and to alleviate PMS and menopausal symptoms in women. It was used by the warriors of the Inca King for energy and stamina.

Maca is rich in essential minerals, especially selenium, calcium, magnesium, and iron, and includes fatty acids including linolenic, palmitic and oleic acids, and polysaccharides. Maca is an adaptogen, which means it helps the body adapt to stress, and promotes healthy hormonal balance. Because endocrine gland balance and immune system function are so interrelated, it often notably promotes a healthy immune system.

Warning: Maca is not recommended for women on birth control pills. If you have or have had a hormone-dependent cancer, consult your physician.