What is Maca? An Ancestral Treasure of the Highlands

Before diving into our color duel, let's go back to basics. Maca, scientifically known as Lepidium meyenii , is a root plant that grows in extreme conditions on the high plateaus of the Andes in Peru, at altitudes of over 4,000 meters. It is this ability to survive in a hostile environment that gives it its rich nutritional value and exceptional adaptogenic properties.

The legacy of a thousand-year-old root

Used for millennia by local populations, maca was revered not only as a staple food but also as a powerful natural remedy. Inca warriors consumed it to increase their strength and endurance before battles. Beyond physical vigor, it was especially renowned for its effects on fertility and sexual vitality, ancestral knowledge passed down through the ages and only now beginning to be validated by modern science.

The color spectrum: Yellow, Red, and Black

Although "Maca" is often referred to as a single entity, there are actually several phenotypes, differentiated by their skin color. Yellow Maca is the most common (approximately 60% of the harvest), followed by red (25%) and black (15%), the rarest. While all share a common base of nutrients (amino acids, vitamins, minerals), each color has a unique concentration of bioactive compounds, giving them specific benefits. This distinction is precisely the focus of our comparison.

Black Maca: The Fuel for Masculine and Cognitive Vitality

Sometimes called the "Viagra of the Incas" or "Peruvian ginseng," black maca is the most studied variety for its effects on male performance, endurance, and cognition. Its reputation is well-deserved; it offers the most targeted benefits for men seeking to maximize their potential.

The champion of male fertility and libido

This is where black maca truly shines. Numerous scientific studies have examined its impact on male reproductive health. The results are compelling: regular consumption of black maca has been associated with a significant increase in sperm count, volume, and motility. For men, this translates not only into improved fertility but also a stronger sex drive. It works not by altering testosterone levels, but rather by optimizing the entire endocrine system for a more efficient response.

"Black Maca is considered the most energizing of the Macas. It is traditionally used to increase strength, endurance and, more specifically, male sexual function."

Memory, concentration and endurance: much more than an aphrodisiac

Limiting black maca to its sexual benefits alone would be a mistake. Its adaptogenic properties make it an excellent ally for mental clarity and physical performance. Studies have shown its positive effects on learning, memory, and stress reduction. Athletes appreciate it for its ability to improve endurance and reduce recovery time, while students and professionals can use it to support their focus during intense periods. Explore our lifestyle blog to discover how to incorporate it into a comprehensive wellness routine.

For whom is black Maca ideal?

• Men seeking to boost their libido and improve their fertility.
• Athletes (men and women) wishing to improve their endurance and performance.
• Students and professionals seeking natural support for memory and concentration.
• Anyone experiencing low energy or chronic fatigue.

Red Maca: Feminine Harmony and Prostate Protection

While black maca is king, red maca is undoubtedly queen. Gentler, it is particularly renowned for its ability to regulate hormonal balance, especially in women, and for its unique protective properties, including for men.

Supports libido and female hormonal balance

Red maca is a valuable ally for women's well-being at every stage of life. It is known to help alleviate symptoms related to hormonal imbalances, such as premenstrual syndrome (PMS) or the discomforts of menopause (hot flashes, mood swings, vaginal dryness). By acting as a natural regulator, it contributes to a better mood, more energy, and consequently, a more fulfilling libido. It nourishes desire from within, restoring the body's fundamental balance.

A natural protection for the prostate

This is where red maca stands out: although associated with femininity, it offers a major advantage for men. Of all the maca varieties, it has demonstrated the most significant effectiveness in reducing prostate size in studies on benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). For men over 40, preventative consumption can therefore be a considerable health benefit.

Key finding: A 2005 study published in the "Reproductive Biology and Endocrinology Journal" specifically showed that red Maca, and not yellow or black, significantly reduced prostate size in rats.

Bone density and mood: the hidden benefits

Red maca is also the richest in antioxidants. This abundance helps combat oxidative stress and cellular aging. Research suggests it may have a protective effect on bone density, a crucial issue, particularly for post-menopausal women. Its mood-regulating action makes it an excellent support against anxiety and mild depression.

For whom is red Maca ideal?

• Women of all ages seeking hormonal balance, a healthy libido, and relief from PMS or menopausal symptoms.
• Men over 40 who are concerned about their prostate health.
• People (men and women) seeking to improve their mood and protect their bones.

The Face-Off: Red Maca vs. Black Maca for Libido

Now that the profiles are established, let's put them to direct confrontation on the terrain of sexual desire. The answer isn't as simple as a binary choice; it depends on the source of the imbalance.

Simplified comparative table

In short, if your decreased libido is due to a lack of energy, vitality, and raw energy, black maca is probably your best option . If it's more the result of a hormonal imbalance, stress, or mood disorders, red maca will be more suitable . For more wellness tips, feel free to check out our general information blog .

How to choose and integrate Maca into your daily routine?

The choice of color has been made, but the quality of the product is just as crucial to achieving the desired results.

1. Choose organic, Peruvian Maca: Ensure its origin to guarantee it grew in its native terroir, where it develops all its beneficial properties. The organic label protects you from pesticides.
2. Opt for "gelatinized" maca: This term doesn't mean it contains gelatin. It's an extrusion process that removes the hard-to-digest starch from the raw root. Gelatinized maca is more concentrated, more potent, and much easier to digest.
3. Incorporate it gradually: Start with one teaspoon a day (about 3-5g) in a smoothie, yogurt, or simply water. Its caramelized hazelnut flavor pairs well with cocoa or cinnamon. For creative ideas, check out our recipe blog !