FACTS AND PROPERTIES OF THE MACA ROOT

Belonging to the broccoli family, the Maca root refers to the root part of the plant. Going by the botanical name Lepidium meyenii, the root resembles a turnip and is divided into several categories based on its colour. Traditionally used as an aphrodisiac, the Maca is a suppressor of prostate hypertrophy and contains a potency that is similar to finasteride that treats enlarged prostates.

HABITAT AND CONSTITUENTS

Found and grown in Central Peru’s high plateau, which is located in the Andes Mountains, the vegetable crop has been cultivated for more than 3000 years. It has an odour that is similar to butterscotch. Requiring an elevation of about 4000 m above sea level, the growing season temperatures can vary anywhere from -2oC to 13oC. Frosts, strong winds and sunlight are native seasonal characteristics of the Maca.

The Maca’s components have high nutritional health value. On an average, they contain carbohydrates (about 60 – 70%), proteins (about 8%) and dietary fibre (around 8%). Essential trace elements of manganese, iron and copper are found along with fatty acids. Other components include glucotropaeolin and alkaloids.

HEALTH BENEFITS