This highly nutritious root is a Native of Peru, where it is cultivated high in the Andes. In fact Maca is one of the most high-altitude vegetable crops on the planet. It is rich in valuable protein, vitamins, minerals and amino acids, and has a history of use that goes back many thousands years. Maca is now being looked at carefully throughout the world for its potential to benefit women coping with difficulties in their sexual cycles, and during the menopause. Properties The secret of Maca's astonishing effects is its high content of alkaloids. These appear to stimulate the body's hormone system from within, and bring it into balance. Maca is also rich in calcium, magnesium and potassium and provides iron, zinc and iodine. In a world of pollution and stress it is a pure natural product that has lasting benefits for men and women of all ages. Maca can be used either as powdered root in capsules, or in the modern, powerful and concentrated elixir. Uses Traditionally, Maca has been used to increase energy, stamina and endurance in athletes, promote mental clarity, as an aphrodisiac for both men and women, and for female hormonal imbalances including menopause and chronic fatigue syndrome. More recently, Maca has been used by weight lifters and body builders as a natural restorative.