Source Naturals Maca is a standardized extract of this hardy and highly valued plant. Maca is grown at high elevations in the Andes region of central Peru using no fertilizers or pesticides. It has been used for centuries by indigenous Peruvians as a food source and based upon traditional Peruvian folk belief, for increasing stamina and energy. Because of this traditional use, maca has been called Peruvian ginseng. Maca is known to contain various nutrients, including amino acids and minerals. Maca also contains sterols and fatty acids, such as linolenic, palmitic, and oleic acid. The biologically active molecule, benzyl isothiocyanate, is also found in maca.