Maca Root: What It Is and Why It's Paired With Ashwagandha

Maca shows up in smoothie powders, energy blends, and adaptogen formulas, including our Ashwagandha Plus. But what exactly is it, and why combine it with ashwagandha? Here's a clear, no-hype overview.

What is maca?

Maca (Lepidium meyenii) is a root vegetable grown high in the Andes mountains of Peru, often above 13,000 feet. It belongs to the same plant family as broccoli, cabbage, and radishes. For centuries, people in the Andes have eaten it as a food, typically dried, ground, or cooked.

Today, maca is most often sold as a dried powder or concentrated extract.

Types of maca

Maca roots come in several colors, most commonly:

• Yellow maca: The most common and widely available type
• Red maca: Sweeter tasting and less common
• Black maca: The rarest of the three

Researchers have studied the colors separately, but most consumer products use a general maca root powder or extract.

What does research say?

Maca has been studied in a number of small human trials, mostly looking at energy, mood, and sexual wellness in adults. Some results have been encouraging, but most studies were small and short, so researchers agree more work is needed before drawing firm conclusions.

The honest takeaway: maca has a long traditional history and promising early research, but it isn't a magic bullet. Think of it as one supportive piece of a broader routine.

Why pair maca with ashwagandha?

Ashwagandha and maca are often combined because people use them for related, complementary goals:

• Ashwagandha is an adaptogen most often used to support a calm, balanced response to everyday stress.
• Maca is traditionally used to support energy and vitality.

Together they fit a common goal: feeling steady without feeling sluggish. Ashwagandha Plus also adds ginseng and vitamin B12, which plays a role in normal energy metabolism.

New to ashwagandha? Read How Long Does Ashwagandha Take to Work? and KSM-66® Ashwagandha Explained.

How to take maca

• Many people take maca in the morning, since it's associated with energy.
• Taking it with food can help if you have a sensitive stomach.
• Like most botanicals, consistent daily use matters more than timing.
• Follow the directions on your product's label.

Who should be cautious

Maca is a food in its native region, but concentrated supplements aren't right for everyone. Talk with your healthcare provider first if you:

• Are pregnant or breastfeeding
• Have a thyroid condition
• Have a hormone-sensitive condition
• Take prescription medications

Shop Ashwagandha Plus: KSM-66® with Maca, Ginseng & B12 (60 capsules) →
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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. This content is for educational purposes and is not medical advice.