Peruvian Ginseng is more commonly known as “Maca”. Taking its name from the eponymous Peruvian Andes mountains, this root grows at altitudes of around 13,000 feet . It has been cultivated as a vegetable crop for the last 3000 years. Although it is a relative of the radish, in raw form, it smells much like butterscotch. Historically, it has been used to make a fermented medicinal remedy known as "Maca Chicha" with other ingredients such as sugar, quinoa, maize, ginger and optional cinnamon or lime
Source: Predominantly grown high in the Andes mountains of Peru
Benefits:
Bountiful Source of Nutrients: Supplying protein, fiber, fat, Vitamin C, B6, potassium, manganese, iron and copper
Male Fertility: Has been shown to improve sperm production and quality, enhancing male fertility. It has also been used to shrink an enlarged prostate
Libido in Both Sexes: Studies show that with continued ingestion of maca, both males and females benefit from heightened sexual desire and energy
Mood Booster and Memory: There are multiple studies showing Maca significantly improving mood related conditions– its effects on depression and anxiety are profound, benefiting both by restoring hormonal imbalances. Menopausal women have seen pronounced benefits from using Maca to regulate symptoms including hot flashes, forgetfulness and insomnia. There are numerous studies showing improved concentration and memory
Energy Enhancing: Studies show Maca can increase endurance and physical performance in athletes. There is anecdotal evidence for gaining muscle and increasing strength but there have not been enough studies just yet to corroborate claims
Risks: Those with thyroid issues should be careful taking Maca as it contains “goitrogens” which can interfere with thyroid function. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should consult their doctor first. It is recommended not to ingest raw Maca
Sustainability: This plant is technically an annual but often is a biennial as the weather conditions will not always allow it to finish its growing cycle in one season. While it grows wild, there are many private farmers cultivating this beneficial plant. Due to its relatively short maturation time, Maca's future bodes well
Processing: Like other ginsengs, the root is the valuable and nutritive part of this plant. It can be grown and cultivated domestically in climates that aren’t too hot (no hotter than the high 80s in any growing season). It can survive remarkably harsh conditions and sometimes poor soil quality but this lowers its quality and extends its cultivation time. The roots are harvested, dried and processed for sale and consumption
Resources:
http://www.medicinehunter.com/hot-plants-and-sustainability/ - Sustainability efforts
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26421049/ - Benefits on male fertility
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11753476/ - More benefits on male fertility
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20691074 - Effects on sexual desire
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18784609 - Improvements on mood
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24931003 - Effects on blood pressure and depression
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16985902/ - Benefitting enlarged prostrates
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/21780878 - Memory improvement
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/18955369/ - More on memory improvement
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1756464612000436 - Increases endurance