Maca is a vegetable that's shaped similar to a radish. Native Peruvians use maca to promote sexual virility and to increase endurance and energy. Though traditionally utilized as a vegetable crop, these days you'll see dried maca extract in supplement form. Few side effects or adverse reactions are documented with this extract, and its toxicity is proven to be low in animal lab studies, according to Drugs.com. However, if you choose to use this supplement, it's best to consult a doctor first, especially as little research exists on drug interactions. Also be aware of the small number of side effects that the extract is known to produce.
Goiter
Avoid maca if you have a thyroid condition, recommends Drugs.com. The glucosinolates in maca, if combined with a diet low in iodine, can cause goiter. Glucosinolates are a class of organic compounds that exhibit antithyroid activity, according to Cornell University of New York. Other common plants that contain glucosinolates include horseradish, watercress and radishes, which are often used to add a hot or bitter taste to condiments.
Insomnia
You may experience insomnia if you take high doses of maca, according to Dr. Ray Sahelian, nationally known medical writer and author of "Natural Sex Boosters." Maca root has many components, including sterols, malic acid, uridine, and macamides in addition to its glucosinolates. Many of maca's compounds affect your central nervous system, but the mechanism for these effects is not well understood, according to Sahelian.
Breast Tenderness
If you are a woman, you may have slight breast tenderness if you take high doses of maca, according to "Maca: Adaptogen and Hormonal Regulator," by Beth M. Ley.
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