Maca root grows in the mountains of Peru at high altitudes of 7,000 to 11,000 feet, making it the highest altitude growing plant in the world. Maca is a radish-like root vegetable that is related to the potato family, and is tuberous and spherical in form. The root itself is about three to six centimeters across and 4.7 centimeters in length. There are four recognized types of Maca Root based on the color of the root. Root color varies from creamy yellow or light pink to dark purple or black.
==Special Precautions of Maca==
*Maca is LIKELY SAFE for most people when taken in amounts found in foodsEstrogenic Activity : The Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center reports maca root possesses estrogenic activity. Maca While it is POSSIBLY SAFE when taken unclear if this would translate to any real danger, using supplements with estrogenic activity could prove problematic in larger amounts certain instances, such as medicine (up suffering from or having an increased risk of breast cancer or other hormone-sensitive diseases. If this applies to 3 grams daily) for up to three monthsyou, discuss the potential risks of using maca root in this instance. *Impaired Thyroid Function : Maca seems contains substances called glucosinolates, which can interfere with production of thyroid hormone -- particularly in the presence of a low-iodine diet – and cause goiter, a swelling of the gland that results in a lump at the base of neck. The University of Michigan Health System reports that while other foods that contain these substances have been shown to be impair thyroid function, it has not been proven that maca causes this problem as well tolerated by , though it is likely it would produce a similar effect. Reduced thyroid function most peoplecommonly strikes women over 50, so if you fall into this category and do not know the status of your thyroid function, consider getting tested before using maca.*Pregnancy and breast-feedingOther Safety Concerns : Not enough Maca has been touted as a treatment for both male and female infertility, although the NYU Longone Medical Center cautions that it's not yet clear how well it works. If you have an interest in using maca to improve your chances of conception, discuss this with your doctor. This is known especially important if you are taking standard fertility drugs, as you want to make sure your doctor does not have concerns about the negative interactions that could affect their efficacy. Do not use while pregnant or breastfeeding due to lack of maca during pregnancy and breast-feedingsafety data. Stay on If you have liver or kidney disease, always clear the safe side and avoid useof supplements with your doctor.
==The benefits of Maca are==
Chemically Maca root contains significant amounts of amino acids, carbohydrates, and minerals including calcium, phosphorous, zinc, magnesium, iron, as well as vitamins B1, B2, B12, C and E. Peruvian Maca also includes a number of glycosides.