Maca root is a sacred plant from the high mountains of Peru that is traditionally used as a natural remedy to bring balance, boost energy and combat stress and fatigue. Maca powder benefits natural hormone balance, promoting both libido and sexual function in men and women and returning hormonal harmony during hormonal transitions in women (e.g. menopause or PMS). Maca is also an adaptogen that helps the body cope better with stressors and naturally returns balance to the nervous and endocrine systems.

The different colours of maca (red maca, black maca and yellow maca) each have different properties that need to be used in the right ratios depending on the condition being treated. Yellow maca root is the most abundant form of maca (65%), it is more mild than the other colours and is traditionally used to build resilience and bring balance to master glands. Yellow maca powder benefits those with hormonal imbalances, thyroid dysfunction, adrenal fatigue, stress, burnout and for general health and well-being.

Red maca root is more rare (25%) than yellow maca and saved for acute treatment of constitutional imbalances or alleviating more chronic conditions. Red maca benefits conditions such as specific hormonal imbalances (including PMS and menopause), anxiety, adrenal fatigue, weakened bones, poor circulation, inflammation and autoimmunity, prostate function in men and can enhance fertility in women.

Black maca root is the rarest form of maca (10%) and is thought to be the most sacred and saved for acute treatment of constitutional insufficiencies or chonic health conditions. Black maca benefits cognitive capacity (brain fog), brain function, physical energy, mental focus, mental health (as a natural antidepressant), physical performance, male fertility, sexual function and libido.

Maca comes in powdered form or crunchy chunks known as maca nibs that have a sweet, malt-caramel flavour. It combines well with spices, fruits and bitter foods like cacao. Add Maca to your morning granola, porridge, smoothie, fruit juice, fruit salad or have the traditional way in a tea, infused with your favourite spices or fruit.

As a starchy root vegetable Maca always needs to be cooked before consumption and should not be eaten raw, eating raw maca can actually be detrimental to your health. When it comes to raw Maca vs gelatinized Maca or activated Maca powder it is best to choose the heat treated option as it is gut safe and contains equivalent or higher levels of bioactive macamides. We only sell heat 'activated' maca (gelatinized maca) which is pre-cooked safe to consume in your smoothies, plus it tastes much better. For those wanting to know how much Maca to take, we recommend 1-1.5 tsp per day for a minimum period of 6-12 weeks to get the full health benefits. Maca is best taken in the morning to provide sustained energy throughout the day. It doesn't contain caffeine so doesn't create a stimulant effect and is safe and well tolerated by people of all ages and health conditions.