Lepidium meyenii
Lepidium meyenii · Accepted scientific name
Scientific literature: Very Sparse (17 studies) · ★☆☆☆☆
Lepidium meyenii, commonly known as maca, is a remarkable plant primarily valued for its nutrient-dense root and rhizome. This botanical specimen is rich in specialized chemicals such as glucosinolates and glucotropaeolin, which contribute to its diverse biological profile. Scientific research highlights its potent activities as an adaptogen, antioxidant, aphrodisiac, and androgenic agent. When prepared as methanolic or 50% ethanolic extracts, the plant shows significant potential in addressing conditions like infertility, depression, and osteoporosis. Consequently, it remains a subject of intense study for its multifaceted impact on human health and wellness.
- Synonyms
- Lepidium Meyenii Var. Gelidum · Lepidium Meyenii Subsp. Gelidum · 6 more
- Common names
- Not available
- Family
- Brassicaceae
- Distribution
- Asia-Tropical
- Plant Parts
- Root · Rhizome
Classification
Common Names
Lepidium meyenii is a versatile botanical species known by a diverse array of regional and descriptive names. It is frequently referred to as Maca-peruana or simply Macoa in various botanical contexts. Many people also recognize this plant by its common moniker, Peruvian-ginseng, highlighting its perceived medicinal properties. Additionally, it is sometimes called Jinsém-peruano or the unique term andienkrassi. These various names reflect the plant's deep cultural and linguistic roots across different regions.
Sources: Catalogue of Life (COL)
Synonyms
Lepidium meyenii is a plant characterized by a complex taxonomic history involving several recognized synonyms. Botanists have categorized various forms of this species under names such as Lepidium affine and Lepidium gelidum. Furthermore, its morphological diversity is reflected in specific designations like Lepidium meyenii f. rhombicum and Lepidium meyenii f. rotundatum. The classification also includes the subspecies Lepidium meyenii subsp. gelidum to account for regional variations. Understanding these scientific relationships is essential for accurate botanical identification and study.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Taxonomy
Lepidium meyenii belongs to the vast biological kingdom Plantae. Within this expansive group, it is classified under the class Equisetopsida. The plant is further organized into the order Brassicales, showcasing its evolutionary connections. It specifically falls under the family Brassicaceae, a group known for many diverse species. Ultimately, it is identified by its unique genus, Lepidium.
| Rank | Classification |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Streptophyta |
| Class | Equisetopsida |
| Subclass | Magnoliidae |
| Order | Brassicales |
| Family | Brassicaceae |
| Genus | Lepidium |
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Distribution
Geographic Regions
Lepidium meyenii is primarily distributed throughout the vast regions of Southern America. Its presence is notably concentrated in the southern reaches of the continent, specifically spanning across Northwest Argentina and Northern Chile. The plant also thrives within the Western South American landscape, finding suitable habitats in both Bolivia and Peru. This widespread geographical range highlights its adaptability to various terrains across the southern and western sectors of the continent. Consequently, these diverse locations define the natural ecological footprint of this unique species.
Sources: The World Checklist of Vascular Plants (WCVP)
Identification
Morphology
Lepidium meyenii is a small herb characterized by its compact and self-supporting growth form. This plant remains relatively low to the ground, reaching a maximum height of only 0.1 meters. Its sturdy structure allows it to thrive effectively within its natural environment.
Sources: Global Inventory of Floras and Traits (GIFT)
Biological Activities
Lepidium meyenii, commonly known as maca, is a versatile medicinal plant from the Andes that offers a wide array of biological benefits. Research indicates that its various extracts possess significant antioxidant activity, which helps protect cells from oxidative stress. The plant is also highly regarded as an adaptogen, helping the body maintain homeostasis and manage the effects of stress. Furthermore, its unique chemical constituents, such as alkaloids and macamides, contribute to its reputed aphrodisiac and anabolic properties. These multifaceted activities, including androgenic effects, highlight its potential as a powerful functional food for enhancing hormonal balance and reproductive health.
Compounds
Lepidium meyenii, commonly known as maca, is a complex botanical source rich in diverse bioactive secondary metabolites. Research indicates that the plant contains various glucosinolates, which play significant roles in its biological activities, including potential anticancer and neuroprotective effects. Specifically, the presence of compounds such as glucotropaeolin and glucoalyssin has been linked to the inhibition of cell viability in certain cancer cell lines. Beyond these sulfur-containing compounds, the plant is also a source of unique imidazole alkaloids. Detailed chemical isolation has successfully identified these specific alkaloids as lepidiline A and lepidiline B within the root extracts.
Conditions
Lepidium meyenii is widely recognized for its ability to treat fertility, with studies showing it enhances sperm production, motility, and hormone levels in rats. This plant also provides antioxidant benefits, as its bioactive extracts demonstrate significant capacity to scavenge radicals and protect cells. Research indicates that Lepidium meyenii can treat antidepressant needs by improving mood and reducing anxiety in clinical trials. Furthermore, it is used to treat energy levels, serving as a nutritional supplement that acts as an energizer. Finally, the plant has been identified as a medicinal agent to treat osteoporosis through its specific bioactive targets.
Preparations
Lepidium meyenii is frequently prepared as roots for the isolation of bioactive compounds like benzylated alkamides and thiourea analogues. These roots are often processed into a methanolic extract to investigate their antioxidant and antihypertensive properties. Researchers also utilize 50% ethanolic extracts to analyze the presence of various glucosinolates within the plant material. Additionally, the plant is prepared as a chloroform extract to evaluate its specific biological activities. Through these diverse preparation methods, the chemical constituents of the roots can be effectively studied for medicinal applications.
Parts used
Lepidium meyenii is a versatile plant highly valued for its unique chemical constituents and medicinal properties. Scientific research frequently focuses on the plant's root, which serves as a primary source for fat-soluble extractions and bioactive compounds. Within these root structures, specialized components such as benzylated alkamides have been isolated and studied for their potential biological activities. Furthermore, the rhizome of the plant is a significant source of various lignans, including several newly identified neolignans. Together, these specific parts of Lepidium meyenii provide a rich foundation for developing functional dietary factors and anti-inflammatory treatments.