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 altitude under extreme conditions: frost, wind and intense solar radiation. This adaptation to a hostile environment gives its root a particularly dense concentration of nutrients. Maca has been grown and consumed by Andean peoples for more than 2,000 years.

There are several maca varieties, distinguished by root colour: yellow, black and red. Red maca is the rarest and most sought-after, standing out for its mild taste and natural concentration of active compounds. Vegetopie’s powder is obtained by cold-drying the root, a process that preserves its full nutrient content.

Maca is one of the adaptogenic plants — plants that help the body adapt to different forms of physical and mental stress without a harsh stimulant effect. Unlike coffee, it doesn’t cause an energy spike followed by a crash, instead gradually supporting vitality over time — which explains its reputation as the “energy of the Andes”.

Traditionally, maca was consumed by Andean populations to support endurance, vigour and fertility in a challenging environment. Red maca is today particularly valued to accompany periods of fatigue, seasonal changes and life stages requiring natural support.

Red maca powder is naturally rich in minerals and fibre. Per 100 g, it provides potassium (1,030 mg), calcium (350 mg), phosphorus (300 mg), iron (13 mg) and magnesium (80 mg). It also contains about 10 g of plant protein and 18 g of fibre per 100 g.

This mineral density, combined with its natural carbohydrate content, makes maca a genuine energy-source food. Iron contributes to the reduction of tiredness and fatigue and to normal oxygen transport in the body, while magnesium contributes to normal function of the nervous system and muscles.

Start with half a teaspoon per day, then gradually increase to 1-2 teaspoons (3-9 g), ideally in the morning. Red maca has a mild, slightly malty flavour that pairs very well with cocoa, banana and dried fruit. Mix the powder into a smoothie, juice, plant-based milk, porridge or yoghurt — it also works in baking, energy balls or homemade bars. To preserve its flavour, avoid heating it strongly. Store the pouch in a cool, dry place away from light, and reseal it well after each use.

The organic certification guarantees maca grown without synthetic pesticides, chemical fertilisers or GMOs. Vegetopie selects a premium red maca, grown in the Peruvian highlands and cold-dried to preserve its nutrients — a raw powder, with no additives.

Not recommended for people with thyroid disorders, due to its glucosinolate content, and, as a precaution, for pregnant or breastfeeding women. If undergoing medical treatment or managing a hormonal condition, seek your doctor’s advice before use. Keep out of reach of children, store in a dry, cool place. Do not exceed the recommended daily dose.

What’s the difference between red, yellow and black maca?

All three varieties come from the same plant but differ in root colour and profile. Yellow maca is the most common. Black maca is often associated with endurance and focus. Red maca, rarer, is the mildest and valued for everyday balance and vitality.

How is red maca powder consumed?

The simplest way is to add half to two teaspoons (3-9 g) to a smoothie, plant-based milk, juice or porridge, ideally in the morning. Its mild, malty flavour pairs well with cocoa and banana. Start with a small dose and increase gradually.

Is red maca suitable for vegans?

Yes. It’s a 100% plant-based powder, from organic farming, gluten-free and additive-free — suitable for vegan and vegetarian diets.

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.