A History Steeped in Mystery

February 17, 2024 | Jerry Black | |

Jerome R. Black, Botanical Explorer
Herbs America, Amazon Therapeutics

In 1994, we were fortunate to lead a botanical expedition through the Peruvian Andes to search for Maca. It soon became apparent that, even in the Andes, Maca was incredibly elusive and rare. It is estimated there was only enough Maca in Peru to feed a few small villages.

But to ancient Peruvians, Maca root was a precious commodity, used by the Inca to strengthen bones, hair, to increase mental concentration and to supply higher levels of physical energy and endurance. For almost two centuries Maca was commonly traded for gold and exported to feed the kings of Spain. While Maca had been valued for millennia, in the late 20th century it slipped into obscurity and remained hidden away at 14,000 feet elevation, teetering on the brink of extinction.

With the help of the Peruvian government, we visited universities and seed germplasm collections throughout  Peru. Using USDA government permits, we were the first to export Maca plants and seeds to botanical gardens, universities, and researchers in North America and around the world.

Since then, researchers have proven what the Inca had been saying for centuries: Maca works because it is loaded with natural precursors, amino acids, minerals, and newly discovered MACAMIDES and MACAENES found in no other plant Research data has finally shed light on the amazing properties of this once forgotten, remarkable crop. Doctors are now researching these new alkaloids.

A Commitment to Maca Farmers

maca farmersOne of the most harmful things a company can do to a small farmer is to pressure them to use chemicals or short-sighted farming practices. We never pressure our growers to utilize chemicals to increase yield. In fact, we promote organic agriculture and collaborate with traditional farmers who specialize in organic methods. We are dedicated to providing the highest quality products, direct from the source.

In our commitment to quality, we provide third-party testing to ensure the products we are offering lives up to our high standards. We follow the strict guidelines set forth by such agencies as FDA (cGMP), Oregon Tilth (Organic Certification), and the USDA.

We want to offer our thanks for your continued support of our company, our products, and our values. We are honored to stand behind the ethics this company was built upon 22 years ago. Feel the power of the Inca.

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