Here is the list of health benefits and side effects of maca root powder. What are the Pros and Cons of Maca Root Powder?

What is maca root?

This plant, which is believed to have health benefits, is generally consumed in powder form or capsule form. Grows in the high mountain regions of Peru.

Pros of Maca Root Powder

• Maca root is a very good adaptogen. Increases, strengthens and revives body resistance and endurance.
• It contains between 13% and 16% protein. That is why maca is nourishing and fortifying with this feature. It is an ideal food especially for people who do not consume meat.
• Contains 8,5% fiber. It helps prevent digestive, diarrhea and gas problems by helping the digestive system to work properly.
• It is rich in vitamins A, B1, B2, B3, C and D.
• Contains iron, magnesium, copper, sodium, potassium minerals.
• It helps maintain the balance of the body with its 19 different amino acid content.
• It supports the work of the nervous system and helps reduce the effects of stress, provides a better sleep.
• Maca helps to reduce the effect of conditions such as depression, anxiety, and panic attacks.
• It helps hormones work properly by strengthening the connection between the brain and the pituitary gland.
• Maca is effective in eliminating the problems experienced during menstrual periods. It is especially effective in situations such as PMS (premenstrual syndrome), which can be experienced due to hormonal imbalances.
• It increases sexual power, is a good aphrodisiac.(Is maca root good for sex?)
• Maca root powder also improves fertility by affecting the hormonal system positively. It provides benefits for fertility by helping to maintain hormone balance in women and increasing sperm count in men.
• It helps to reduce sweating, stress and similar effects that may occur during the menopause period.
• Maca root increases the energy and reduces the symptoms of fatigue.
• It has healing properties on the skin and hair. The minerals it contains make the skin and hair livelier and healthier.

Does maca cause breast cancer?

CONS of Maca(What are the side effects of maca root?)

For a person of average height and weight, 1-3 teaspoons of maca powder per day is a suitable dosage. Since maca is considered a food, there is no ‘high dose’ danger, but care should be taken not to consume too much.

But, maca root may have side effects if you are already using some other medicines.

You shouldn’t  take Peruvian maca with some prescription medicaments. It is found that it is not good to take maca together with thyroid problems. Minerals from the root of maca can prevent the absorption of these medicaments.

FAQS

Is maca powder safe?

It is generally safe, but each person’s body and health condition is different and some may experience side effects.

What are the benefits of maca root for women?

Maca root supports women’s hormonal balance, and its use can be especially effective in the menstrual cycle and menopause.
Gives energy, can reduce fatigue. It helps improve mood, making it easier to cope with stress.

Is maca root good for men?

This plant, which is believed to have libido-enhancing effects, can positively affect men’s sexual health.There are claims that it can improve sperm quality. It is believed to give energy and increase performance.

Who should not take maca? &

Who should take extra care before taking Maca?

Those with hormonal disorders,  blood sugar problems, and pregnant and breastfeeding women

Can maca root cause anxiety?

There is no direct evidence.

Does maca root really work?  &

Does maca root work immediately?

Generally, effects can be seen after a week or two of regular use.

Maca root dangers side effects?

Digestive problems, headache, allergic reactions are known as side effects.

Can maca root cause cancer? & Does maca cause breast cancer?

There is not enough scientific data that it increases the risk of cancer, but as it is known, unconscious, excessive and irregular use of herbal supplements can be dangerous.

Maca root interactions with medications

Maca root can interact with certain medications, potentially affecting their efficacy or increasing their side effects. Special caution is advised when using it with medications that impact hormone levels.

Can maca cause headaches?

Maca may cause hormonal changes or affect blood pressure in some individuals, which can lead to headaches.

Maca side effects kidney: is maca harmful to kidneys?

Dietary supplements, though often perceived as harmless, can have serious side effects, including kidney damage. A case report highlighted a 65-year-old man who experienced acute kidney injury and nephrotic-range proteinuria after consuming high doses of dietary supplements for three years. Renal biopsy revealed acute tubular necrosis, acute interstitial nephritis, and secondary membranous nephropathy, likely related to cyclooxygenase (COX) inhibitors in cherry extract, a key component of his supplements. After discontinuing the supplements and undergoing a prolonged course of prednisone, his proteinuria resolved, and serum creatinine levels stabilized. This case underscores the importance of considering dietary supplements, like cherry extract, as potential causes of renal issues, particularly when investigating new-onset renal failure and proteinuria.

Maca dosage chart

If you are taking any medication consult your doctor  before taking the maca.

Pros and cons of maca root