*Rare Maca Root

History of Maca

Often called "Peruvian Ginseng", Maca is a unique root tuber with usage dating back to the mid 15th century. Natives of this area ate it raw, cooked or boiled and it became a staple in their everyday diet. Contrary to some literature citing its use some 2000 years ago to tout sexual stamina, this is hardly correct. Truth is, the rough terrain of this region made it difficult to cultivate food so most of the communities diet was dependant on wild gathered material, hence the Maca was incorporated into their daily food consumption. It resembles a radish and is actually a close relative as well. The growing conditions are very specific and it will only thrive in the glaciated slopes of the Andes with a prime elevation of 12,000 to 15,000 feet above sea level. Currently the country of Peru is heavily subsidizing and studying the benefits of this root and several reports from educational and scientific institutions have showed significant benefits.