Maca root has been purported to help improve libido and sexual desire. In August 2010, the "BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine" journal reviewed studies done on maca. Dr. B. Shin and colleagues concluded that available maca studies show the herb can improve sexual function in menopausal women and healthy men; however, some studies have mixed results. Available in powder and capsule form, maca is thought to have a balancing effect on hormones. The herb has been found to have low toxicity, according to an article published in "Toxicological Reviews" in 2005, but may have some side effects. Talk to your doctor about maca, as it does have some contraindications and cautions associated with its use.
Hypertension
Maca root is often used to increase energy and libido. Supplements with these benefits should be discussed with your doctor, as they can aggravate hypertension. A study published in "Food and Chemical Toxicology" in March 2008 discussed the safety of maca supplementation. Dr. Valentova led a team of researchers in discovering that maca did slightly raise diastolic blood pressure, although it showed low toxicity results in other applications. They concluded that at high levels, maca has potential to aggravate blood pressure. Talk to you doctor if you have a history of hypertension and are interested in trying maca root.
Thyroid Conditions
According to Drugs.com, maca should not be taken if you have a thyroid disorder. Maca contains substances called glucosinolates, which inhibit thyroid activity. Glucosinates work by decreasing levels of thyroid peroxidase or TPO, according to a study in the "Indian Journal of Medical Research" published in May of 2004. If these substances are combined with a diet low in iodine, goiter can result. Fortunately, the study also stated that excess iodine reversed the anti-TPO activity, but was unable to neutralize it. Talk to your doctor about your diet, particularly if you are thinking of taking maca root supplements.
Anxiety or Insomnia
Maca root powder can increase your energy and libido levels, therefore it has the potential to interfere with sleep or give you too much energy when you are trying to wind down. The herb should not be taken late in the day, as the effects can filter over into your quiet or sleep time. Talk to your doctor about dosing if you are using maca root.
Allergic Reaction
Because maca root is an herb, there is a possiblity you will have an allergic reaction to it. If you develop a rash or other type of reaction after taking the supplement, discontinue use and talk to your doctor.
References
- "BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine"; Maca (L. meyenii) for improving sexual function: a systematic review; BC Shin et al; August 2010
- "Food and Chemical Toxicology"; Maca (Lepidium meyenii) and yacon (Smallanthus sonchifolius) in combination with silymarin as food supplements: in vivo safety assessment; K Valentova et al; March 2008
- Drugs.com: Maca Information
- "Indian Journal of Medical Research"; Goitrogenic content of Indian cyanogenic plant foods & their in vitro anti-thyroidal activity; AK Chandra et al; May 2004
Member Comments