By Irene Hayton

Maca is a cruciferous root vegetable that grows high in the Andes Mountains of Peru at altitudes 13,000 feet above sea level and has been used medicinally in Peru for centuries. Maca is rich in vitamins, minerals (such as magnesium, potassium, iron, silica and easily absorbable calcium), amino acids and powerful antioxidants. The roots of the maca plant look like small turnips and are dried and milled into a strong-smelling powder with a not-so-pleasant taste.

Maca helps to regulate hormonal function, thereby promoting hormonal balance. It acts upon many glands including the ovaries, testes, pituitary, adrenals and hypothalamus and by doing so, has been shown to have numerous health benefits. It has been used: as a natural, non-toxic hormone replacement therapy to help relieve menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes and night sweats; to treat male impotence and erectile dysfunction; to improve male and female fertility and libido; to decrease stress; and to boost energy levels and support emotional well-being.

Maca is available in powder or capsule form. Recommendations for dosage vary so consult a natural health care professional for guidelines. The following website gives information about dosage and contraindications: http://www.macadata.com/taking.php.