This root plant is both a
food and an herb. It grows at elavations of
14,000 ft. above sea level, making it the
highest grown cultivated plant in the world.
The seeds of the Maca plant were first collected
and planted 10,000 years ago.
During the Inca Reign, the
Inca Ruler withdrew the Maca roots produced
from general trade and restricted their use
to the nobility and the warriors. The warriors
were given Maca before battle to increase
their strength and endurance. However, after
conquering the opposing peoples, the Inca
warriors were prohibited from eating Maca.
This was to protect the women from their conquerors
powerful sexual drive.
After the Spanish
Conquest of the Incas in the 16th century, the
king of Spain demanded that part of his
tribute be given in Maca roots. Maca was reserved
for the Spanish Royalty to be consumed for
increased sexual energy and health.
