History

The history of this interesting plant probably dates back to 6,000 years before Christ. It was discovered in the Andes Mountains, where it still grows today. In the beginning, it was mainly used by the Andean indigenous population, for whom Maca was the only edible plant growing at such a high altitude. On the basis of its strengthening effects and resistance to high altitude harsh conditions, it has become a tradition that it is a God-sent plant. Based on superstition, Maca has earned its nickname „the strengthening plant sent down from heights“. The first written description of this plant was published in 1553 by the Spanish chronicler Ciezao de Leon, who learned about the plant on his first trip to Peru. He liked the plant so much that he carried it on his return trip to Spain. As a result of this event, awareness of this plant spread throughout Europe and other parts of the world.

Origin and cultivation

This biennial plant, which originates from Peru, is classified in the beet family together with the beet family. In the wild, it is easy to miss, as its above-ground parts grow to a maximum height of 15 centimetres. The underground part of the plant is the root (tuber), which is spherical to spindle-shaped. The root may be cream, white or yellow. However, there are also varieties whose roots are dark red to dark brown. By virtue of its constitution, Maca can withstand harsh alpine conditions such as cold, strong winds, reduced oxygen content and exposure to strong UV radiation. Due to its hardiness, it grows at altitudes of up to 4500 metres above sea level, which is what makes it unique.

Composition and properties

Maca is a rich source of substances with beneficial effects. Maca powder with a yellowish colour is characterised by its typical creamy and sweet taste.

Recommended dosage

Stir 1–3 teaspoons (5–10 grams) daily in water, juice, milk, porridge, smoothies, cereals or other foods. Daily intake of Maca: 5–10 g.

Warning

• Do not exceed the recommended daily dose.
• This product is not intended to replace a varied and balanced diet.
• Keep out of reach of children.
• Not suitable for children under 3 years of age or pregnant and lactating women.
• Store dry, protect from heat.

In conclusion

• 100% pure and natural ingredients.
• Suitable for vegans and vegetarians

Packaging

You can choose from two packaging options:

• in a paper bag, 400 g content
• in glass bottle, 120 g content

Origin: Peru

Sources

[1] WANG, Sunan a Fan ZHU, 2019. Chemical composition and health effects of maca (Lepidium meyenii). Food Chemistry. 288, 422–443.

[2] GAN, Jin et al., Correlations between Antioxidant Activity and Alkaloids and Phenols of Maca (Lepidium meyenii). Research Article. 10.

[3] F. GONZALES, Gustavo, 2012. Ethnobiology and Ethnopharmacology of Lepidium meyenii (Maca), a Plant from the Peruvian Highlands. Review Article. 10.

[4] GAN, Jin et al., 2017. Correlations between Antioxidant Activity and Alkaloids and Phenols of Maca (Lepidium meyenii). Scientific reports. 10.

[5] GAN, Jin et al., 2017. Correlations between Antioxidant Activity and Alkaloids and Phenols of Maca (Lepidium meyenii). Scientific reports. 10.

[6] HUANG, Yan-Jie, Xing-Rong PENG a Ming-Hua QIU, 2018. Progress on the Chemical Constituents Derived from Glucosinolates in Maca (Lepidium meyenii). Natural Products and Bioprospecting. 8, 405–412.

It is an effective adaptogen. It helps the body to adapt to external conditions such as stress, fatigue or exhaustion.

Health claims from the so-called ON HOLD list

• Physical and mental health

• Endurance

• Vitality

• Fertility

ON HOLD list – This is a list of substances and their relationship to health that have been sent to EFSA for assessment but EFSA has not yet issued an expert opinion or the EC has not yet issued a decision. Please note that these claims are temporary.