Maca is a root that grows high in the Peruvian Andes at altitudes of 14,000 feet (3500 m) above sea level. It has been cultivated for 1000s of years and used by indigenous people to boost their energy while living at such extreme elevations where oxygen is in short supply. It looks similar to a radish or turnip and comes in a variety of colors ranging from white to dark purple. Peruvian Maca root has the distinction of being the highest growing food plant anywhere in the world.

Maca was discovered over 2000 years ago when Incan farmers first grazed their flocks in the high mountains. They noticed that when their animals grazed on Maca they would become much healthier, hardier, and stronger, and more fertile. People later began. using Maca themselves and it is now eaten worldwide to promote fertility, build muscle, increase stamina, relieve menopause symptoms, boost energy, support prostate health, increase bone density, alleviate depression, boost libido, balance hormones and more.

Maca is a nutrient dense food that is rich in amino acids, phyonutrients, vitamins, minerals and fatty acids. It also contains unique nutrients called macaenes and macamides, which are thought to be responsible for Maca’s powerful hormone balancing activity. Maca is 10.2% protein and contains signficant levels of iron, magnesium, copper and calcium. All of this combined makes Maca a powerful addition to your diet.

Yes, Maca is 100% gluten free. Gluten only comes from cereal grains and Maca is a root vegetable and not a grain.

Raw Maca powder has never been heated above 118F/43C. That makes it a whole food and leaves all its nutrients intact. Gelatinized Maca has been heated to remove starch content. The process does destroy some nutrients, but makes Maca powder easier to digest. If you have normal digestion we recommend Raw Maca powders over Gelatinized. But if you do have any digestive issue, Gelatinized will be better for you.

Sundried Maca is the traditional approach to processing Maca in which Maca roots are dried in the sun for about 40 days after harvest. Premium Maca is a more modern approach in which Maca roots are dried in dehydrators directly after harvest. Sudnried Maca is a bit sweeter and less expensive, while Premium Maca is spicier and has a higher cocentration of glucosinolates

Yes, children can take Maca. Just keep the serving size much smaller than for adults. If you have any doubts please consult your physician.

The most effective way to take Maca powder is to mix it into water or a simple fruit juice and take it on an empty stomach 10-15 minutes before you eat breakfast. Taking Maca on an empty stomach allows it to absorb a bit faster and more thoroughly. It’s also fine to mix Maca powder in smoothies and other drinks as well as in some kinds of food.

Maca is a heritage product of Peru and originates in Peru.  Furthermore, the roots only form properly in the soil of the high Andes.   Maca is now produced in China, but it is very low in quality and effect compared to Peruvian Maca.  Insist on Maca from Peru.

We recommend that most people start with 1-3 teaspoons (2-8 capsules) per day, depending on your body size and the kind of Maca that you purchase. We suggest that you read our complete Maca servings page for more.

Maca is a food and takes time and consistent use to show effects. Most people who take Maca daily report seeing some benefits within 10-14 days of starting. Others, often those taking Maca therapeutically, report seeing benefits after about 30 days. Our recommendation is to stay consistent with your Maca routine and make sure that you give it enough time to work.