Description
Maca grows is native to Peru and grows in the high altitudes of the Andes Mountains with extremely cold temperatures, intense sunlight and strong winds. It is a relative of radish, with a tuberous body that forms underground that is about 10-14cm long and 3-5cm wide when fresh and reducing in size considerably once dried. Maca is reported to appear in a variety of colours, which are associated with variations in concentrations of various compounds.
Herb uses
The root of the Maca plant has been shown to have nutritional, energising and fertility-enhancing properties. It is used to treat the effects of menopause in women. It has been used in the treatment of sexual dysfunction and female infertility, osteoporosis, fatigue and mood disorders, memory and learning, as a skin protectant against UV radiation, and shows potential for use as an adaptogen. The root is rich in essential amino and fatty acids, proteins, iron, calcium, copper, zinc, potassium and a variety of alkaloids.