Maca Root Side Effects: Is Maca Safe? Who Should Avoid It & How to Take It

Maca root is popular in Pakistan as a natural supplement for energy, stamina and vitality. Because it is a food in its home country of Peru, many people assume it is completely risk-free. For most healthy adults it is well tolerated, but there are some maca root side effects and situations where caution is wise. Here is an honest guide.

Is maca root safe?

Maca (Lepidium meyenii) has been eaten as a cooked root vegetable in the Andes for centuries. In human studies, amounts of roughly 1.5 to 3 grams a day for up to a few months have generally been well tolerated. Long-term safety data is limited, so it is sensible to use it in moderate amounts and take breaks.

For the benefits side, read our maca root benefits guide.

Possible side effects of maca

• Stomach upset: gas, bloating or loose stools, especially with raw maca powder.
• Feeling restless or jittery: some people feel overly energised.
• Trouble sleeping: taking maca late in the day may affect sleep in sensitive people.
• Headache in a small number of users.
• Possible hormonal effects: maca is studied for libido and mood; anyone with hormone-sensitive conditions should be careful (see below).

Who should avoid maca or check with a doctor first?

• Pregnant or breastfeeding women: there is not enough safety data, so avoid unless your doctor approves.
• Hormone-sensitive conditions: such as breast, uterine or ovarian cancer, endometriosis or fibroids.
• Thyroid problems: raw maca contains natural compounds (glucosinolates) that may affect thyroid function in people with low iodine intake or thyroid disease.
• High blood pressure or heart conditions: speak to your doctor, especially if you take regular medicines.
• Anyone on prescription medicines or with a long-term health condition.
• Children: maca supplements are for adults only.

How to take maca sensibly

1. Follow the label: MediGreen Maca Root is taken as 1 to 2 capsules a day, or as directed by a healthcare professional.
2. Take it in the morning or with lunch to avoid sleep problems.
3. Take it with food if you have a sensitive stomach.
4. Start low: begin with one capsule for the first week to see how you feel.
5. Take breaks: many people use maca for a few months and then pause.
6. Don't stack products: check that other supplements you take don't also contain maca.

Capsules vs maca powder

Maca powder has an earthy, malty taste and must be measured and mixed every day. MediGreen Maca Root capsules give a measured serving with no taste and nothing to mix, which makes it easier to stay consistent and avoid taking too much.

Frequently asked questions

Does maca affect hormones?

Studies suggest maca does not directly change hormone blood levels in most healthy adults, but because it is used for libido and mood, people with hormone-sensitive conditions should be cautious and speak to their doctor.

Can maca cause weight gain?

There is no good evidence that maca capsules cause weight gain.

Can women take maca?

Yes, healthy adult women can take maca, except during pregnancy or breastfeeding or with hormone-sensitive conditions.

When is the best time to take maca?

Morning or with lunch is best, as it may feel energising and could affect sleep if taken late.

Bottom line

Maca root is generally well tolerated by healthy adults at moderate amounts. Avoid it in pregnancy and breastfeeding, be careful with thyroid or hormone-sensitive conditions, and check with your doctor if you take medicines. Shop MediGreen Maca Root 30 Capsules with cash on delivery across Pakistan.

This article is for general information and is not a substitute for medical advice. Maca Root is a food supplement and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.