If you are currently using or hope to begin using maca root for the treatment of a minor health ailment, then you should also be aware of the possible negative side effects associated with the herb. Native to Peru in the form of a plant bearing the same name, and available in local supermarkets and drug stores, maca root can be found in the form of pills, powders, liquid extracts or tea-based products. Before consuming any herbal supplement, you should first receive clearance from your doctor.
Poosible Drug Interactions
Traditionally prescribed for the treatment of male sexual dysfunction, maca root can be found in products such as Viramax according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. According to the University website, these products not only contain maca root but also a mixture of other herbs and chemicals thought to improve male disorders like erectile dysfunction. However, there is no concrete evidence that maca root can actually improve these conditions for men, nor is there documentation to suggest that maca is safe to take in conjunction with other prescription medications. Therefore, the website suggests that you should first speak to a medical professional prior to consuming maca root if you are already on prescription medication.
Thyroid Effects
If you are a thyroid patient, you may experience an unhealthy increase in iodine levels after taking maca root. According to Herbal-Supplement-Resource.org, maca root contains a large dosage of iodine that can be harmful to supplement users who struggle with disorders such as hypothyroidism. In these patients, the possibility of developing complications such as an enlarged thyroid gland, or goiter, may increase following maca root consumption. The website suggests that thyroid patients or users on low-iodine diets avoid maca root-based products unless cleared by a doctor.
Other Side Effects
Although no documented side effects or adverse reactions to maca root consumption are life-threatening, Herbal-Supplement-Resource.org does list a few minor effects. These may include fatigue, allergic reactions, dizziness and stomach irritation in rare cases. Additional research into the effects of maca root needs to be conducted.
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