Lepidium meyenii (Maca root)

Lepidium meyenii, commonly known as maca or maca root, is a herbaceous plant in the mustard family (Brassicaceae) native to the high-altitude regions of the Andes in South America. The fleshy underground portion of the plant is the principal part used in herbal preparations and contains carbohydrates, fiber, amino acids, polyphenols, glucosinolates, macamides, and other plant secondary compounds.

In equine supplements, Lepidium meyenii may be included as a botanical ingredient in formulas intended to support energy, stamina, reproductive health, or general wellness. It is not typically used to provide meaningful amounts of protein, energy, vitamins, or minerals at common supplemental inclusion rates. Most information on its functional properties comes from traditional use and laboratory, animal, and human research rather than controlled studies in horses, so equine-specific efficacy and optimal dosing have not been well established.