Maca is a nutritional powerhouse especially rich in iodine. It is a reliable protein source containing significant amounts of amino acids. The protein and calories in Maca are stable even after years of storage. It is also rich in complex carbohydrates and essential minerals such as calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, and zinc. and iron. It contains vitamins B-1, B-2, B-12, C, and E and is a source of glycosid steroids.

Weight lifters and body builders are turning to Maca as a natural and safe alternative to anabolic steroids. The rich and diverse nutrient content of Maca explains its many traditional uses and why it is sought after today.

Maca is an "adaptogen", meaning it helps to restore balance or homeostasis to the body. Rather than addressing a specific symptom, adaptogens are used to improve the overall adaptability of the whole system.  Unlike caffeine, Maca is a healthy choice for increasing energy because it is not a stimulant. The steady enhancement of both physical and mental energy makes Maca an ideal supplement for students, professionals, writers, athletes, and anybody else who needs a lift.

The Indians who first used Maca believed it to be a significant fertility aid for both animals and humans; this explains why Maca is often described as an aphrodisiac. Maca offers a natural solution to symptoms to both PMS and menopause. Calcium and magnesium are well known for their beneficial effects on the female endocrine system. Maca is a good source for both of these important minerals and is a very rich source of iodine, which is also important for the endocrine system due to its effect on the thyroid.

The History of Maca Medicine

Maca is an extraordinary herb used at one time exclusively by Inca Royalty. After the Spanish conquest it was exported to Spain for the exclusive use of Spanish Royalty.

The Peruvians may have been the first to realize the beauty of Maca, but they thankfully did not keep it a secret from other cultures. The Spanish soon found the miracles of Maca after their conquest of the area. They were having trouble breeding their livestock until a native disclosed the secrets of the mysterious plant. Soon Maca became more valuable than gold. Along with being a great source of nourishment, Maca is also used for treating ailments, reducing stress, and contributes to natural, successful weight loss. One of the first ways natives used Maca for Medicinal purposes was to enhance fertility in humans and animals.

Maca is a hardy perennial plant cultivated in the Andean Mountains. The Inca Indians domesticated it about 2000 years ago, and primitive cultivars of Maca have been found in archaeological sites dating as far back as 1600 BC.  Native Peruvians traditionally utilized Maca before the time of the Incas for both nutritional and medicinal purposes.    It has always been an important staple in the food crop grown there.

It is rich in sugars, protein, starches, and essential minerals, especially iodine and iron. In Peruvian herbal medicine Maca is used as an immuno-stimulant for anaemia, tuberculosis, menstrual disorders, menopause symptoms, stomach cancer, sterility and other reproductive and sexual disorders as well as enhancing memory. This energizing plant is sometimes also referred to as Peruvian ginseng, although Maca is not in the same family as ginseng.