Maca: Benefits and Taste of This Ancient Root

What Is Maca?

Maca is a root vegetable native to the Peruvian Andes. Traditionally used for both food and medicinal purposes, maca is now widely consumed as a powder, capsule, or liquid supplement across the world.

The edible part, known as the maca root, is typically dried and ground into maca powder or processed into gelatinised maca powder for easier digestion. It’s valued for its unique nutritional profile and wide range of potential health benefits.

Taste & Flavour: What Does Maca Powder Taste Like?

Raw Maca Powder

The maca powder taste is often described as earthy and nutty, with hints of butterscotch or caramel. Some people find it slightly bitter or malt-like, especially in raw maca powder.

Taste may vary depending on:

• The variety (black maca is often more earthy)

• The form (raw vs gelatinized maca)

• How much is consumed

Gelatinised Maca Powder

Gelatinised maca powder is maca that has been cooked to remove starch and improve digestibility. This process softens the flavour, making it more pleasant for people sensitive to the stronger taste of raw maca.

How to Make Maca Taste Better

You can enhance or mask the maca powder taste by mixing it with:

• Smoothies (with banana, cacao, berries)

• Hot chocolate or warm plant-based milk

• Baked goods or energy bars

• Oats, porridge, or chia puddings

Health Benefits of Maca Root Powder

1. Boosts Energy Levels and Vitality

Maca is often used as a natural energy booster. Regular consumption may help improve stamina and reduce fatigue—making it popular among athletes and active individuals.

2. Supports Hormonal Balance

Maca is considered an adaptogenic herb, which means it may help the body adapt to stress and promote hormonal balance. It's often used to support symptoms related to PMS, menopause, and overall hormone regulation.

3. Promotes Fertility and Libido

Traditionally, maca root has been consumed to support fertility and libido in both women and men. It may support sexual function and reproductive health when consumed consistently in small amounts over time.

4. May Improve Mood and Cognitive Function

Some evidence suggests that maca could support brain health, focus, and mood. It's thought to support improved cognitive ability and help the body better manage stress.

5. Delivers Beneficial Nutrients

Maca powder is a good source of:

• Vitamin C and trace minerals

• Small amounts of protein and iron

• Dietary fibre and bioactive compounds

It’s low in saturated fat and contains natural plant nutrients that support overall health.

How to Use Maca in Your Diet

Maca is incredibly versatile. Here’s how to consume it:

• Add 1 tsp to your smoothie or protein shake

• Stir into hot chocolate or warm drinks

• Mix into chia seeds puddings, baked goodies or oatmeal

• Blend with coconut oil, nut butter or cacao for raw recipes

Start with 1–2 grams per day, and build up to 3–5 grams if desired. Listen to your body, and cycle if needed (e.g. 6 days on, 1 off).

Botanika Basics Organic Maca Powder

Looking to try maca? Discover our Organic Maca Powder – made from 100% certified organic maca root powder, sourced directly from Peru and packed right here in Australia.

✔ Vegan Friendly
✔ All Natural
✔ 30 Serves Per Bag
✔ Perfect for Smoothies & Hot Drinks

Each 10g serve delivers 34 calories, 6.7g of carbs, 2.4g of natural sugar, 1.2g of protein, and a full spectrum of nutrients to support energy, hormonal balance, and daily wellbeing.

Try it in your next smoothie, coffee, or baked recipe and enjoy the natural power of maca—delicious, nutritious, and energising.