Black Maca
Lepidium meyenii Walp. (black phenotype)
For centuries, Black Maca has thrived in the challenging, high-altitude landscapes of the Peruvian Andes, cultivated as both a nourishing food and a respected botanical, adapted to extreme temperatures, intense sunlight and mineral-rich volcanic soils.

- Common name
- Black Maca
- Scientific name
- Lepidium meyenii Walp. (black phenotype)
- Family
- Brassicaceae
- Plant part
- Root
- Native region
- Peruvian Andes
- Traditional systems
- Andean
Botanical classification
Family Brassicaceae · Genus Lepidium · Species Lepidium meyenii · Plant part: root · Preparation: dried botanical powder.
Origin & traditional use
Cultivated in Peru for more than 2,000 years and valued by indigenous Andean communities as a dietary staple, historically used during periods requiring endurance and resilience in high-altitude environments. Long consumed as a food — cooked, dried, or in traditional beverages.
Modern scientific perspective
Research explores glucosinolates, macamides, macaenes, sterols and polyphenols and their potential interactions with normal physiological processes. Why we selected it: one of the most extensively recognised traditional Andean botanicals, contributing a unique phytochemical profile. Our formulation philosophy emphasises the synergy of whole botanicals rather than isolated compounds. Quality philosophy: sourced as dried root powder from established Andean growing regions, identity-verified and tested for purity. Akasha perspective: a botanical of altitude and endurance — we include it for its lineage as food first, supplement second.
Evidence snapshot
Traditional use: consumed for centuries as a nutrient-rich Andean food. Preclinical research: studies characterising phytochemical composition. Human research: studies on men's and women's wellness with mixed results. Scientific consensus: remains an active area of botanical research.
Proposed mechanisms
Glucosinolates, macamides and macaenes are the constituent classes most often examined in relation to normal physiological processes.
- Adaptogenic activityStudied for a non-specific influence on the body's response to everyday stressors.
- Mitochondrial supportStudied in relation to cellular energy metabolism.
Key active constituents
- Macamides
- Macaenes
- Glucosinolates
- Polyphenols
- Flavonoids
- Sterols
- Essential amino acids
- Naturally occurring minerals
Safety & considerations
Commonly consumed as a food in Peru. Discontinue use if unexpected sensitivity occurs. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
- Contraindications
- Consult a healthcare professional if you have a medical condition.
- Drug interactions
- Consult a healthcare professional if you take prescription medications.
- Pregnancy
- Consult a healthcare professional before use if pregnant.
- Breastfeeding
- Consult a healthcare professional before use if nursing.
- Adults only. Formulated for adults. Keep out of reach of children.
- Pregnancy and nursing. Not intended for use during pregnancy or while nursing. Speak with your healthcare provider.
- Medication interaction. If you take prescription medication, speak with your healthcare provider before use.
References
- 01 Lepidium meyenii (maca): a review of its traditional use and phytochemistry. Various, Journal of Ethnopharmacology, 2020 — Systematic Review
- 02 Dietary Supplement Label Database. Office of Dietary Supplements, National Institutes of Health, 2024 — Government ResourceSource
- 03 Ethnobiology and ethnopharmacology of Lepidium meyenii (Maca). Gonzales GF, Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, 2012 — ReviewSource
- 04 Using Dietary Supplements Wisely. National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, NCCIH, 2024 — GuidanceSource
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Products containing this ingredient
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
