Maca (Lepidium meyenii) is a plant of the Brassicaceae family, native to the Peruvian Andes, where it grows between 3,500 and 4,500 metres in extreme conditions — frost, high winds and intense sun. This adaptation to harsh conditions gives the root a remarkable concentration of bioactive compounds. Cultivated for over 2,000 years by Andean peoples, maca was traditionally consumed by Inca warriors before battle to build endurance, and by local populations to support vitality in a demanding environment. The root’s nutritional profile includes specific glucosinolates, alkaloids, essential fatty acids, polyphenols, B vitamins, iron, zinc and selenium.

This is what sets this maca apart from simple powders: it is a concentrated extract at an 11:1 ratio, meaning 11kg of organic maca root are used to obtain 1kg of extract. Water and inert plant matter are removed, concentrating the active compounds (glucosinolates, macamides, alkaloids) into a much smaller volume. In practice, each 500mg capsule of extract is equivalent to 5.5g of maca powder, and the 2-capsule daily dose (1000mg of extract) corresponds to 11g of maca root — several spoonfuls of ordinary powder would be needed to match this. The extraction is water-based and “full spectrum,” preserving the root’s complete natural profile.

Maca is classed among the adaptogens — plants that help the body adapt to physical and mental stress without over-stimulating or suppressing biological functions. Unlike stimulants such as caffeine, maca does not cause an energy spike followed by a crash, but gradually supports vitality over time. Some research has looked at its effects on fatigue and physical performance, as well as its traditional use during menopause. Importantly, maca is not a phytohormone: it does not contain or directly supply hormones. It is understood to act on the hypothalamic-pituitary axis as an endocrine modulator, giving it a balancing effect on the body’s own hormone production — a mechanism distinct from phyto-oestrogenic plants, which makes it a traditional choice for hormonal imbalance linked to stress, age or nutritional gaps.

Recommended dose is 1 to 2 capsules a day (500 to 1000mg of concentrated maca extract), preferably in the morning or around midday with a meal, to avoid stimulation too late in the day for those sensitive to it. A minimum 4-8 week course is recommended, with initial effects on energy and vitality generally appearing after 2-3 weeks of regular use. Maca can be taken continuously or in seasonal cycles of 2-3 months followed by a break of a few weeks.

Not recommended for people with thyroid disorders, due to its glucosinolate content, which may interfere with thyroid function — medical advice is essential in case of diagnosed thyroid disease or ongoing treatment. Also not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women as a precaution. People treated for hormonal imbalances (testosterone, oestrogen, progesterone) should consult their doctor, as maca has a modulating effect on the hormonal axis that could interact with hormone replacement or regulation treatments. Store in a cool, dry place away from light. Do not exceed the recommended daily dose. Food supplement. Not a substitute for a varied, balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle. Keep out of reach of children.

What is the difference between concentrated maca and plain maca powder?

Dynveo’s concentrated maca is a standardised extract titrated in active glucosinolates, guaranteeing a consistent level of actives from batch to batch. Plain dried root powder contains variable amounts of these compounds depending on harvest and soil. The concentrated extract therefore delivers a more reliable, reproducible effect at a lower dose.

How long before I notice the effects of maca?

Initial effects on energy and vitality are generally noticeable after 2-3 weeks of regular use. Effects on hormonal balance and endurance build up gradually over 4-8 weeks. A full 4-8 week course is recommended to fully benefit from the plant’s properties.

Herba Barona is an independent specialist supplement shop in the heart of Paris — established in 2006. What you order is genuinely on our shelves: we ship from our own stock, with no dropshipping and no long waits.

Visit us at 10 rue Théophile Roussel, Paris 12 — or use Click & Collect and pick up your order in-store. We also deliver across France and Europe. Friendly, expert advice in English from our team.

Where is the shop?

Herba Barona is at 10 rue Théophile Roussel, 75012 Paris — a two-minute walk from Ledru-Rollin (line 8), close to Bastille. Open Tuesday to Saturday, 9:30 am–6:30 pm.

Can I order online or collect in store?

Yes. We ship across France and Europe under the same conditions as our French store, or choose Click & Collect to pick up your order for free at our Paris shop.