Materia Medica: Maca

The Benefits of Maca Root

Lepidium Meyenii.  

Maca has found its way into the wellness industry in a big way in the last few years, and like all good trends, we can’t help but wonder if it’s really worth the fanfare.

Maca is by no means a new discovery, at least not outside of the Western world. Native to the high Andes of Peru, and also known as Peruvian Ginseng, it’s been highly revered for thousands of years for its medicinal properties.

What is Maca good for?

It has an affinity for reproductive health - balancing hormones and enhancing fertility in women, easing symptoms of PMS and menopause, and may even reduce the risk of miscarriage. In men it increases libido and potency along with sperm count, quality, and motility, all while generally enhancing reproductive health, circulation, and sexual desire in both sexes. Think sexual tonic.

Maca has also been shown to boost energy, mood, and overall stamina. Maca is attributed to its classification as an adaptogen - an herb or substance that improves the body’s overall ability to handle and adapt to stress.  

(Learn more about adaptogens, and some fascinating studies on them here).

Maca grows in environments and at altitudes where little else can thrive, so it’s tough - coincidence?! - while remaining intensely nutritive, and was therefore coveted by ancient peoples in the region.  Legend has it that Incan warriors would take it before going to battle, who so loved it that at one point it was used as currency.  

It’s also immune boosting, is said to improve memory, and tastes a bit like butterscotch. 

Is Maca worth the hype?

So yes, this one really is worth the praise it’s garnered in recent years, especially considering our contemporary propensity toward so many of the issues Maca treats. But take heed - cultivation and import have increased dramatically to accommodate its sudden fame, and (especially) with internationally imported herbs, make sure to be highly selective with the suppliers you use, and make sure you’re getting fresh, medicinal-grade herbs like the herbs we use in each of our formulas.

I use Maca in Sexpot Apothecary formula No. 16, our herbal tincture for Female Libido, and in No. 24, our Male Virility formula for testosterone support and sexual energy.  They just so happen to be my two best-selling herbal formulas for sexual wellness. Coincidence?