Maca Side Effects

What You Need To Know About The Side Effects Of Maca

Maca has been traditionally used in Peru as a beneficial medicinal herb and a potent aphrodisiac. It goes by the scientific name Lepidium Meyenii.

This tuberous root plant belongs to the radish family and grows in the mountain tops of the Peruvian Andes about 3,000 to 4,000 meters above sea level. Only the Maca root plant can survive the extreme weather conditions at these heights. The huge amount of different soil minerals is the reason for Maca’s various essential elements and very high nutritional value. Many alternative health practitioners have already proven the efficacy of this root plant in improving one’s health. As long as you adhere to the right dosage, you will surely get healthier if you take Maca as a nutritional supplement.

Researchers have found that there are no adverse side effects to taking Maca as a health supplement. But because it contains nutrients and essential elements at very high levels, adverse Maca side effects can result if this supplement is taken carelessly and in excess amounts. Therefore you need to strictly follow the right dosages of this supplement or you might suffer some health inconveniences along the way. Below are some of the things that may result for taking excessive amounts of this supplement.

Hyper Activity in Men

Since Maca can increase sexual functions, i.e. libido, some men may want to start taking more than what is reasonable. You should avoid doing this because it is liable to make you hyper active because it will unduly increase your production of testosterone. Your intake of Maca should only be the amount recommended by your health provider.

Thyroid Complications

Based on the study done by the University of Michigan Health System, consuming Maca powder can cause the swelling of the thyroid gland. This is shown by patients after consuming foods that induces a drop in iodine within the blood. The researchers have seen this effect on patients who were taking Maca as a dietary supplement. Although the direct relation is not definitely established, patients who have thyroid problems are recommended to stay away from Maca roots and related products.

Insomnia

In your desire to enhance your energy, don’t take too much Maca at once. Any excess amounts of Maca will cause you to have excessive energy. With excess stamina, you will find it hard to sleep even if you want to. Your body will not be able to properly direct where your sudden excess supply of vigor will go and how they will be used.

Digestive Disorders

This is one of the Maca root side effects because Maca has very high fiber content (about 8.5%) therefore it can influence the rate of your digestive processes. Consuming more than what is allowable may cause your digestive system to work faster. You can experience gas problems or possibly even diarrhea.

Allergy
People have different tolerances to different substances. Unfortunately, some people are allergic to Maca root. If you experience uncomfortable symptoms like flushed skin, hives and fatigue, you may be one of those who are allergic to this root plant.

Can Cause Goiter

The raw Maca root contains glucosinate chemicals. People who are eating low sodium diet increases their risk of developing goiter because of the dangerous combination with these glucosinate substances.

Caution For Pregnant Women and Nursing Mothers

The Maca root side effects are not yet established on these very delicate physical conditions therefore it is imperative for women at this stage to stay away from Maca. This supplement is derived from a very potent herb and it may contain ingredients that may or may not be harmful to the developing child as well as the mother.

Can Suppress the Action of Antibiotics

There are some in the medical field who believes that Maca can hinder the action of anti-biotics. Therefore, if you are taking anti-biotics for a certain health problem, consult your doctor first before consuming even a small amount of Maca.

Maca is indeed a very powerful herbal supplement that can improve your health in so many ways. However, due to its very high potency, we cannot dismiss the fact that taken carelessly, it can cause unwanted effects. If you already have a medical condition and is undergoing treatment, consult your health provider first before thinking of taking Maca as an herbal supplement. It is always better to be safe than to be sorry.