The maca plant, called Lepidium meyenii or “Peruvian ginseng,” is a cruciferous vegetable related to broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, and kale.
Native to the high Andean plateaus, it has been cultivated for over 2,000 years and can survive the harsh weather of the Peruvian Andes above 4,000 meters (m) or 13,123 feet (ft). Traditionally, the Andean people used maca as food or medication to treat respiratory conditions and rheumatic disease.
Maca products he increased in popularity due to claims they may help increase libido and fertility. Maca is now grown worldwide, including in China’s Yunnan province.
It contains beneficial compounds, including:
fibervitamins and mineralsbioactive compounds, such as macamides, macaridine, alkaloids, and glucosinolatesHowever, research on its benefits has been mixed, with more studies needed to support the claims.
Here are some potential benefits of maca.
SummaryPeople in Peru he used maca for thousands of years as food and natural medication.