I dove into deep research on maca as I wanted to understand why some women get such life-changing results from maca and others feel worse. If you are thinking of trying it or have tried it in the past with mixed results, read on as the phenotype, form (gelatinized, raw) and dose can make a big difference. You might try it again or put it away forever. I hope this article will help you get that clarity.
If you asked the ancient Incas to name their ‘go to’ superfoods, maca would have been top of the list. Though most modern cultures are only just catching on to the perks of this sweet-tasting South American root, in Peru, the magic of maca – to balance hormones and invigorate – has been known for thousands of years. Maca is a potent nutritional supplement that boasts the following healing and health secrets:
1. Nutrient-Rich Roots
The maca plant belongs to the brassica (mustard) family and like broccoli and cauliflower, is a cruciferous vegetable. It grows in the mineral-rich mountains of the Andes at an elevation of about 12,000 to 14,000 feet. It is found in Peruvian provinces such as Junín and Pasco, where it thrives in extreme weather conditions that include powerful winds, bitter cold and harsh sunlight. Maca is a tuber, which means that under the ground, the plant stores its rich nutrients in a bulb shaped like a radish or turnip. It is rich in vitamins C and A as well as B2, B6 and Niacin. The hardy root is also packed with minerals, including iron, zinc, iodine, calcium, copper, magnesium and potassium. Maca is also rich in beneficial plant sterols that are biochemically related to hormones such as estrogen, testosterone and progesterone. And it contains healthy fatty acids, which are beneficial for the heart and appear to help stabilize blood glucose levels and reduce inflammation.
2. Color Power
Though the cream/yellow varieties of maca often star in photos, there are actually 13 different colors (or phenotypes) of Peruvian maca, including purple and white. Throughout history, the Peruvians do not appear to have utilized these maca varieties for their individual benefits. Instead they used whatever colors were local, in the ratios they were available and mixed them together in one powder. Cut to the present and modern science is exploring the differences. For the last 10 years, research has shown that different phenotypes of maca contain some different active ingredients, which trigger specific health benefits.
Dr. Gustavo Gonzales, a Professor and Researcher from the High Altitude Research Institute at the Cayetano Heredia Peruvian University in Lima, has been well recognized for his research into medicinal plants from the Peruvian highlands. His particular focus has been on maca and he has been involved in numerous studies exploring the individual health benefits of different maca colours on both rats and people. Research into maca’s color benefits has often been done in rats and more study needs to be conducted in people. It has mostly centered on these three shades of maca:
- Yellow: This has been shown to help protect against UV radiation from the sun when applied in a liquid form to the skin.
- Red: Red maca appears to be good for bone strength.
- Black: has been shown to promote bone strength and improved brain function, such as memory and cognition. In men, it can help increase sperm count and reduce issues like enlarged prostate in men.
3. Energy Enhancement
In ancient times, warriors consumed the maca root to boost stamina and strength before going into battle. Maca was considered so valuable it was even used as currency and at times, reserved only for royalty. Cut to the present and maca is still used as a tonic to enhance vitality, energy and stamina. For this reason it is often called ‘Peruvian ginseng’. It can help prevent an 11am energy dip or 3pm crash.
And it may also improve your exercise workout. Research involving male cyclists showed that after only 14 days on maca supplements their speed improved for a 40km time trial. And they all reported a boost in their sexual desire as well! Experts believe the benefits would be similar in women.
I drink a product called Mighty Maca® Plus almost daily. It was created by a physician and uses maca that is certified organic and sourced from Peru. Whenever I feel like I need a little afternoon pick-me-up but don’t want to reach for caffeine, this maca formulation offers gentle stimulation that does not interfere with sleep. I also love the blend of some 30+ additional ingredients, each chosen for their own unique strengths as well as their synergistic health benefits when combined. There’s spirulina and chlorella for alkalinity; turmeric and mangosteen to quench inflammation; cinnamon and flax seeds to balance blood sugar, and much more. The creator of the product, Dr. Anna Cabeca, fully stands behind the quality and effectiveness of her product and offers a 100% money back guarantee. I love that.
4. Adrenal Nourishment
Rushed, edgy or juggling too many responsibilities? Maca could be your best friend. Like licorice and ginseng, the maca root is one of the rare plants that can be classified as an ‘herbal adaptogen’. This means it can directly change the balance of your hormones to help you adapt to stress and illness. Your endocrine (hormone) system is in the front line when it comes to handling the effects of stress on your body.
Long and short-term responses to stress are called the ‘general adaptation syndrome’ and this occurs in three different stages:
Alarm: You see a spider or slam on your car brakes.
Resistance: Chronic stress increases hormones like cortisol and adrenalin.
Adrenal exhaustion: Your hormones are out of balance, causing fatigue and burnout.
Your body’s adaptive response triggers your hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. This is a feedback loop that impacts areas of your brain like the hypothalamus, the pituitary gland and the adrenal glands. Its job is to pick up signals from your body and the environment around you and react. It kick-starts a cascade of stress hormones including adrenaline and cortisol. It also affects your kidney function, metabolism, digestion and mood. When it’s over-stimulated, you may suffer fluid retention, constant anxiety, tummy troubles, weight gain and lowered immunity. Maca to the rescue!
If you’re under chronic stress or suffer from anxiety, the adaptogen effects of maca can reduce some of that load. Unlike HRT or drugs like antidepressants, maca helps tone the HPA axis to support the body’s own production of numerous hormones, increasing or decreasing their levels according to what you individually need. This reduces the unhealthy knock-on effects that stress and anxiety have on your cardiovascular, respiratory, lymphatic, reproductive and nervous systems. As a result, maca helps prevent you from getting stuck in the adrenal exhaustion stage.
5. Balance in Peri- and Menopause
Are you going through menopause or perimenopause? Maca may be the ultimate natural HRT. Unlike some herbs and phytoestrogens such as soy, maca does not try to mimic estrogen in your body. Yet it can actually increase the body’s production of estrogen if your levels are too low.
Maca in perimenopausal and menopausal women has been linked to an increase in hormones, including progesterone and luteinizing hormone (which stimulates ovary function). The maca also stimulated estradiol and suppressed the production of chemicals like the stress hormone, cortisol. Having worked with over 2000 women, we consistently hear stories about a reduction in hot flashes, night sweats, depression, insomnia, nervousness and anxiety, as well as improved concentration.
Though it’s not well understood how maca works, one of the main theories is that the plant sterols in maca stimulate changes in the action of the HPA axis and also, the adrenal, ovarian, pineal and thyroid glands. While many people with an under-active thyroid can take maca without any problems, women with overactive thyroid issues may find it causes side effects. This may be due to the glucosinolates. On the flip side, the iodine levels in maca can be very beneficial for optimizing thyroid function in some women.
If you have thyroid issues, you should monitor them when you start taking maca to see if it causes any changes. I also recommend looking into a thyroid detox, we have a 12-day thyroid detox program here.
6. PMS Relief
Does your menstrual cycle sometimes make you feel like you’re riding a roller coaster? Here’s why: at the start of the menstrual period, there is a very low level of estrogen, but by mid cycle it has increased 10-fold before steeply plummeting again. This hormonal rise and fall can be evened out by maca because it’s a herbal adaptogen.
Hello, relief from the mood swings, fluid retention and breast tenderness. Maca’s adaptogenic actions also mean it can boost fertility and help women suffering from conditions like Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS). A few words of caution though: maca may stimulate the body to produce more estrogen. This means it should be used with caution or not at all by women with estrogen-sensitive conditions such as estrogen receptor positive breast, ovarian or uterine cancers, endometriosis or uterine fibroids.
7. Boosts Libido
Maca has been used for centuries in Peru to boost libido and virility. Though its aphrodisiac affects are not well understood by science, it’s ability to stimulate sexual sensation and desire has led it to be dubbed ‘nature’s Viagra’. Some experts believe its libido lift is caused by maca’s unique long chain fatty acids called macaenes and macamides, which have yet not been found in any other plant. They have been shown to increase sexual activity and correct erectile dysfunction in animals. And they are similar in structure to endocannabinoids, chemicals that stimulate hedonistic hotspots in our brain, triggering pleasure.
In one study at Victoria University in Australia, postmenopausal women were given 3.5 grams of powdered Maca per day for 6 weeks and placebo for 6 weeks. When using the maca, they reported less anxiety and depression and higher libido. Maca may also boost libido in women struggling to achieve orgasm while taking antidepressants.
8. Reduced Cravings
Maca is high in fibers, such as cellulose and lignins, which improve gut health. Fiber is also an effective tummy filler, which can reduce hunger between meals. Most maca powders also contain between 11% to 18% protein. Your body needs protein to build muscle, promote fat burning, and support the healthy function of all your cells. Nine amino acids are considered ‘essential’ to your health and the optimal function of your body. Maca contains 7 of them and many others that are non-essential.
According to the ‘protein leverage theory’, your body keeps signaling you to keep eating until you eat enough protein. When it registers it has enough, your brain switches off your hunger pangs. So as a high protein food and supplement, maca can help you reach that protein sweet spot every day. And it’s not laden with sweeteners and flavorings, like many protein powders.
9. Liver and Enzyme Support
Maca is a cruciferous vegetable, so it contains glucosinolates. In nature, glucosinolates are stored in cells of plants and act as natural pesticides to protect the plant. When you chew and digest them they change into health-boosting chemicals, which protect against cancer. They also contain sulfurs, which are found in foods like garlic and onions and form bonds that help your enzymes do their job in the body. In particular, sulfurs help your body produce a master antioxidant called glutathione. This boosts the function of your liver and helps your liver detoxify.
Some people believe that glucosinolates block the body’s uptake of iodine and therefore suggest those with thyroid issues avoid foods like maca. However, this is a situation that is not unique to maca and would apply to the consumption of other cruciferous vegetables as well. High intake of cruciferous vegetables (and therefore, glucosinolates) has only been shown to cause problems when the person also has an iodine deficiency.
10. Bone Benefits
Maca contains calcium and phosphorous. Both of these nutrients help strengthen bones. Black and red varieties of maca appear to the most beneficial.
Choosing The Right Maca
For more tips about maca quality, I also asked Dr. Shawn Tassone, a Mind/Body specialist with special interest in Bioidentical Hormone Replacement and Integrative Medicine. Here’s their advice on what to consider about how maca is made:
Manufacturing
The manufacturing process is a key factor for the quality of maca. Dr. Meissner and others at La Molina University in Peru have perfected the gelatinization process, removing the fiber and starches that make it hard to digest for a small number of people. This means the bioavailability of the root is maximized and as a result, your body benefits from certain active constituents.
However, like most things, there are pros and cons to using heat in the processing as gelatinization does. Maca is a food —a root— and like other foods, when cooked, it loses certain enzymes and other heat-sensitive components. For example, the glucosinolates mentioned earlier are an important component of maca that help support breast health and the detoxification of estrogen. Glucosinolates are easily damaged by heat. So, depending on what constituents of maca you are looking to maximize, you might find that a raw version is a better fit.
Growing Methods
According to Dr. Peter Bablis, DC, ND, LAc, Medical Herbalist, “The quality of seed sources and soil content, as well as organic or biodynamic growing strategies and drying methods, all play a part in maximizing the quality of active constituents.” He further comments that the elevation, region-specific quality soil and the traditional sun-drying method have all been shown to contribute to the highest quality raw material.
How Much Maca?
To gently introduce your body to maca, Dr. Tassone recommends the following approach:
- Start with a dose of 1 teaspoon and if you are tolerating that well, without side effects, increase the dose up to 1 tablespoon. If that proves too strong, lower the dose a little – to 2 teaspoons a day.
- Take maca for 2 to 3 weeks – because it can take that long before you see the full benefits. Some women have no obvious immediate effects or a few side effects during the first week of taking maca, but Dr. Tassone recommends to keep going for the 2-3 weeks, as sometimes side effects can subside.
- Cycle on and off: That means that you take maca every day for a few months and then take a break. This allows the cell receptors that detect maca to have a break too, so they don’t get too clever and try to shut down because you are getting maca so regularly.
Why Maca Makes Some Women Feel Sick
Some women find that maca causes unpleasant side effects including stomach bloating, cramps, nausea (or a gurgling tummy) and also heart palpitations or the jitters. These side effects may occur partly because your maca is:
- Not pure: Maca’s popularity as a superfood has led to a massive output of powders and other supplements. Some companies, in trying to get a piece of the action, have put out maca products that are mixed with other starches or incipients that can cause digestive upset for some people. They may also be contaminated with molds or other impurities. Additionally, other countries have jumped on the bandwagon and started producing maca outside Peru. China has been growing their maca crop in the Yunnan province, an area struggling with pollution problems. This means that maca from China may be impure due to exposure to pesticides, chemical contaminants (including heavy metals), and solvents used during the manufacturing process. Some Chinese maca crops have been genetically modified – which means they are not the same as the traditional maca grown in the Peruvian highlands.
- Over-dosed: If you start a dose that’s too high, it could make your symptoms worse. Similarly, if you start using maca and think more is better, taking too much could also cause symptoms. So it’s always better to start with a small dose.
- Taken on an empty stomach: If you have a sensitive stomach, always take your maca with food.
- Adding to your FODMAP load: Maca contains carbohydrates called polysaccharides, so if you are following a Low FODMAP diet or are sensitive to carbs called FODMAPs, you might want to take only low doses of maca or avoid it altogether.
- Just not a good fit: Our own bio-individuality means that everyone reacts differently to nutritional supplements. If you experience side effects from maca and those issues don’t settle, then your particular system may be too sensitive to tolerate maca and you should avoid taking it.
- Given to a slow estrogen metabolizer – I have not yet found a medical backing to this statement and this purely my observation and suspicion: women who are slow estrogen metabolizers (you can confirm it by testing with 23andme), might have an opposite reaction to maca.
Adding Maca To Your Diet
Locals eat maca up to three times a day in Peru, usually boiled or roasted like potatoes. They use the dry powder in baking or heat it to make a dish resembling porridge. And they consume maca as a fermented drink called ‘maca chichi’.
If you are looking to trying maca, I recommend Mighty Maca formulated by the renowned OB-GYN Dr Anna Cabeca who specializes in women’s health and has travelled to Peru to research and source safe and effective forms of maca. Instead of buying a whole canister, I recommend giving it a try first (and figure out if maca loves you), by ordering the free 4-day trial pack of her Mighty Maca Plus superfoods blend. For many, this superfoods blend boosts energy, curbs cravings, and restores hormonal balance. You’ll get the 4-pack for free, too, a $9.99 value. You can get the FREE 4-day sample here.
Maca can be added to many things like smoothies & green juices, muffins, protein balls & bars, homemade cacao chocolate, morning porridge or quinoa, pancakes, truffles, hot cocoa, or coconut milk, and more. Check out this great collection of maca recipe ideas we’ve put together.
Your Maca Checklist
Interested in giving maca a try? Then keep this in mind when choosing your supplement:
-
-
- Where possible, choose maca that has been produced in Peru. If the manufacturer does not state the country of origin, email them and ask. Look for a gelatinized form of maca.
- Choose a maca brand that is organic and sustainably grown and naturally harvested without use of artificial fertilizers, pesticides, solvents, radiation or high heat.
- Start with 1 teaspoon per day.
-
Helpful Tip
To learn more about how to balance your hormones with supplements (and which to take), you can download our FREE Supplement Guide here.
I have tried various brands of maca and can honestly say I have noticed zero improvement taking it. What would you attribute this to? Is this common?
Are you taking atleast 1500mg twice a day?
Hi Sandra, what we were trying to paint in the article is that maca is not for everyone. Small doses always help but you should just feel nothing, only then dose up and see how it works for you. If you are not feeling well even with small doses, maca is not for you.
Me and my wife became constipated since we started to take maca , we take only one tea spoon a day , is this normal ?
Hello! Interesting article! I have a question! Can maca increase levels of estrogen? I started a regimen with maca and ashwagandha 2 months ago; the first half of my period maca and the next ashwagandha. What I experienced is swallowing legs ( fluid retention I guess) which I never had before, and my skin became smoother…
It is possible that maca causes this reaction?
Thank you!
The article doesn’t talk about it “not working”, it talks about it making some people having side effects from it.
I took maca daily, as instructed, for half a year, it had absolutely zero effect on me. I mean not just positive, but nothing negative either. I might as well have been eating air capsules. So I stopped because it just felt like a waste of money. And if I feel nothing from it, how can I know it’s giving me any benefits, when everyone else seems to notice positive symptoms? I do have a good diet, but far from perfect, and I’m TTC, but no success there, either…
If it regulates hormones, maybe it does nothing if your hormones are already fine?
Is it possible the brand you were taking was not pure, organic and all the things the article said to look? I have been taking it for almost a year now and I feel like myself again. No side effects. All menopause symptoms vanished. It started working in a week. Just a suggestion since I find it to be so amazing.
what brand is making the hair come back..that is awesome
Can Hashimoto’s people take maca?
I’ve taken it for years. It’s not a hormone, it’s a hormone regulator. It just helps your body regulate it’s own hormones. It stops my hot flashes cold and I have Hashi’s and have taken it for about 7 years.
Cindy, RN
How much maca o you take a day for HotFlashes? I have started taking maca, I put it in a shake, Cant stand the taste. But these hot flashes, night sweats and so on are killing me. Please help. Thanks
I tried Femmenessence. It has killed the hot flashes! I believe it is 1000mg twice daily.
If you get the gelatinized form, it’s fine as the thyroid-inhibiting properties will be destroyed in the cooking process.
So for thyroid & hormone help which is best to take of Maca, the powder ir capsules Magdalena? Or whomever knows. Thanks
Hi Katherine, She breaks it down in the article about different options to consider. There really is no one right answer for everyone. Because of bio0individuality, you may have to try one of the choices first to see how your body responds and go from there. ~HB Team
Hi Joy, maca isn’t for everyone, but you can sure try it! Follow the guidelines that Magdalena suggested and listen to your body. ~Jeanne HB Team
Also, it doesn’t take months to work. I was having inumerable hot flashes. About 30 plus a day. I took 1 pill and the rest of that day, I only had maybe 7 hot flashes. The 2nd morning I took 1 pill and had no hot flashes the rest of the day. I occassionally get a hot flash if I eat gluten becasue it causes an autoimmune reaction to attack my thyroid and the thyroid regulates hormones. Other than that, I am hot flash free.
One year, I stopped taking Maca, thinking I surely didn’t need it anymore after so many years. I didn’t take that morning’s pill and had a few hot flashes that day. By the second day I was having tons of hot flashes. I ordered it quickly and paid overnight shipping.
Make sure you buy organic and COOKED (Gelatinized) as that is the type that the studies show works best. The raw does not work as well.
Hi Cindy, we need to be careful when we dispense advice like this, esp to women with estrogen problems (which is also the leading cause of breast cancers). Maca can be problematic for some women, even if they take the right phenotype, form (gelatinized) and dose. We tend to advise based on what works for us but unfortunately, not all women will get the benefits you got. I’m one of them. The best maca gives me horrendously tender breasts.
Cindy is being careful. She is an RN and dispenses her opinion, as we all are, based on her experience. People need to be careful consuming advice off the internet. That is the real warning.
Thank you Cindy for telling me your experience, very helpful! Thanks! Im so happy I saw this
Be extremely careful when taking maca. In some women like myself it works too well. In a matter of 2 months I went from having low estrogen to having very high estrogen. I was taking it 5 days a week. Now i am off completely in the hopes my estrogen goes down. Make sure you get tested to check your levels while taking this maca.
which maca were u taking that thickened your lining so fast and what dosage did this?
I think I’m estrogen dominant as I have spider veins,protruding varicose vein on the left leg,lots of fibroids in the womb and heavy bleeding twice a month.im 51 and going thru premenopausal stage
Can I take Maca?
Hi Natalie,
If you do decide to take it, maca is something that one can tell rather quickly if it is helpful or not. We advise that you tune into your body and the signals it is sending. ~HB Team
Maca is a hormone regulator so you are exactly the type person who should take it.
Hi Cindy, we need to be careful when we dispense advice like this, esp to women with estrogen problems (which is also the leading cause of breast cancers). Maca can be problematic for some women, even if they take the right phenotype, form (gelatinized) and dose. We tend to advise based on what works for us but unfortunately, not all women will get the benefits you got. I’m one of them. The best maca gives me horrendously tender breasts.
So, I had fibroid s (hence estrogen dominance) – so, I shouldn’t use MACA then?
Hi Cathy,
Maca is an adaptogen so it works with your body and what it needs. It is not estrogenic in nature.
I have had hormone positive breast cancer… DCIS. but am still trying fertility as i have no children. The doctor thinks my eostrogen has dropped so for a last chance I was going to try maca powder to balance & give me some eostrogen to help ovulate. Should i not use it ?
Donna Connors, Per my acupuncturist, Lemongrass is a traditional Ancient Chinese Medicine treatment for fertility issues in women. Taken in tea form every evening (it makes you sleepy), I can personally testify to an increase in estrogen levels. I am on HRT (trying to get off) & I can totally feel a difference when I take the tea. It boosted my estrogen enough to allow me to decrease my estrogen pill dosage.
Pomegranate juice & watermelon are also estrogen natural boosters.
I am not a doctor & have no recommendation regarding your breast cancer issue.
Hi Magdalena, I’m confused.. you said that you take Mighty Maca every day but then said you don’t do well on maca. Doesn’t Mighty Maca have it in there ?
Maca is an adaptogen so it works with your body and what it needs. It is not estrogenic in nature.
Great article. Thank you and thank you also for the recipes.
Hi Samira,
We are so glad you enjoyed it!
I tried taking maca when it first became readily available. I noticed that I became very aggressive while on it. Would you recommend a smaller dose, a different form, or do you think it might just not be right for me?
Yes, smaller dose, gelatinized form and the phenotype we mentioned in the article :-).
Hi, Thank you for a great article! I have started seeing signs of low estrogen at 36 years old. I took maca for a month or so and it worked perfectly. After a while I realized it is not working so I stopped taking it. After reading your article, it makes sense that I need to cycle on and off. But one thing isn’t clear to me: “That means that you take maca every day for a few months and then take a break.” I have read that you need to be off a couple of days a week or on for three weeks and off for a week. What is your recommendation for the duration of off cycle? Does it takes a couple of days or a week? Thanks!
Samira,
It is good to use it for a month or so and then go off for a couple of weeks and then start again Listen to your body and how it responds and you will get into a good rhythm.
I am 64 years old. I had lots of fibroids and had surgery scheduled 12 years ago. Just as the doctor and I were finishing up up our pre-op consult, she said , Oh by the way, when I do surgery, I take out all the female organs. I was so miserable that I let her. I still cry about it sometimes. Needless to say, my body is out of wack with no hormones. What do you think Maca would do for me?
Hi Mayda – thanks for your comment. What we suggest is you take advantage of our free webinar to understand a broader perspective on hormones. Here is the link if you are interested: http://www.cookingforbalance.com
Lisa
Customer Support
Hi, is Maca okay to take if you have a history of oestrogen dominance breast cancer? I’m no longer on tamoxifen but it has destroyed my libido! I tried taking this for a month and noticed marvellous results. Then I heard it might not be good to take this after having breast cancer. I would like to know when you think? thanks
I am very hesitant to start taking this supplement for that very reason. I’m reading mixed reviews from the medical profession. This website doesn’t provide statistics or clinical studies. Be careful.
On the contrary. Click on the links provided – most of them go to medical studies. I do not gain from promoting any supplements as I don’t sell any maca. This article was written with no bias, to help women decide for themselves depending on how they feel.
Hi i hve pcod problm can i take macca bt m scared it it will increase my weight i dntwant my weight to b increased pls help
Reema,
Try the Maca for a week or so and see how it goes. Let your body tell you how it feels.
Hi Magdalena! Noting the ability of Maca to balance various hormones, is taking it contraindicated when you are taking the birth control pill? Will it cause any adverse affects, or reduced efficacy of the pill at all?
Hi Jade,
knowing the traditional use for maca most say it is contraindicated for use with birth control.
Hi – what test through 23andme indicated that you were a slow estrogen metabolizer? I looked through the list on their website and can’t see which one is connected. thanks!
Hi Candace,
She had her test interpreted by someone and has not shared those further details from her results~Deanna HB Team
We discuss the SNPs in this video with Dr Erika Gray:
https://hormonesbalance.com/articles/discover-how-your-genes-can-impact-your-hormones-and-what-can-you-do/
I was curious about the slow estrogen metabolizer. It states this can be confirmed with 23andme testing. Where/which test? I went to the 23 and me website amd did not see this test/report? Also, does anyone hav a good test for checking estrogen levels? Everything i read states they fluctuate a lot and one test isn’t necessarily accurate. I believe my levels are high.
Hi D,
The 23 and me test is in the genetic health risks and is in the liver genetic testing area. This test will tell you if you have slow estrogen metabolizer genetics. To test estrogen levels in the body you can do a urinary or salivary test. Find a complimentary doctor to work with as a mainstream doctor won’t offer this test.
“A few words of caution though: maca may stimulate the body to produce more estrogen. This means it should be used with caution or not at all by women with estrogen-sensitive conditions such as estrogen receptor positive breast, ovarian or uterine cancers, endometriosis or uterine fibroids.”
This is false according to all the medical research that I’ve read. Maca does not stimulate the body to produce more estrogen. It helps your body to regulate the estrogen your body already produces, which the very reason it works differently for every person. If you can give me references to show the validity of your statement to the contrary, I’d be very grateful to read. Thank you in advance.
Thank you !!!! ❤️
You are welcome 🙂
I started taking it and my uterine lining increased from 2.0 to 4.3. I was told to stop it immediately. I am post menopausal.
HI Camille,
We are all bio-individuals, so Maca works for some people better than other, like many herbs. Adaptagens dampen the stress response in overactive adrenals and increase the response in under active adrenal glands. If you want to explore more about herbs for hormone balance join one of the workshops next week. http://www.herbsforbalance.com
What do you recommend with regard to taking it in pill form as apposed to powder in shakes, etc?? Recommend yellow or black and what dosage (in general) is needed?
Hi Danielle, Magdalena suggests this maca product Mighty Maca® Plus and in general the main thing to look for is that it is gelatanized. Here is the suggestion on how to dose:o gently introduce your body to maca, Dr. Tassone recommends the following approach:
Start with a dose of 1 teaspoon and if you are tolerating that well, without side effects, increase the dose up to 1 tablespoon. If that proves too strong, lower the dose a little – to 2 teaspoons a day.
Take maca for 2 to 3 weeks – because it can take that long before you see the full benefits. Some women have no obvious immediate effects or a few side effects during the first week of taking maca, but Dr. Tassone recommends to keep going for the 2-3 weeks, as sometimes side effects can subside.
Cycle on and off: That means that you take maca every day for a few months and then take a break. This allows the cell receptors that detect maca to have a break too, so they don’t get too clever and try to shut down because you are getting maca so regularly.
Thank you for the reply. I did order pills and I will check dosage and follow your recommendation. Fingers crossed.
Hi,
I enjoyed your article. I have had positive results with Maca. What I have heard is that men should take one type and women should take another. Can you expound on this topic for clarity sake?
Thank you 🙂
Ingrid
Hi Ingrid, there are 3 types of Maca- red, black, and yellow. There is some evidence that the black and red can help with men’s health. Black maca may increase sperm and the red may reduce enlarged prostate. All the colors of maca are good for both men and women.
Hi,
I had a question. I have been considering using Maca and I found an organic liquid extract for red maca. My question is, I am currently going through IVF and have just had a second cycle fail. I am currently on low does estrogen (1mg x2/day) building up to the third cycle. Dr. has also placed me on low dose baby aspirin. Will consuming the Maca along with this regime have an adverse effect on me?
Thanks in advance.
Hi Kay,
If you are going through IVF you should wait it out on using Maca. There is not enough research to indicate the it would be beneficial while doing IVF. We wish you all the best.
Angela, Hormones Balance Team
I took maca powder (like 2-3 tbs everyday for at least 4 days twice a day) and the side effect for me is extreme itchiness all over my body and scalp and tingling, I.t wasn’t smart to take I.t like that and since then I’ve stopped but how long until this horror is completely out of my system, and what can I do to speed that process up?
Hi Shay,
Sorry to hear you had that experience. Everyone is different. It may be good for you to go to an infrared sauna, do something that makes you sweat, increase your water intake and eat some detoxing foods. ~Deanna HB Team
I recently added maca powder to my diet. I’ve been using 1/4 tsp gelatinized powder in my morning shake for 3 days and I got pms symptoms and started spotting. I attempted to extensively research this online and found conflicting results-ranging from this is unusual to this is the body’s “normal way or regulating”? I’m unsure as to whether I should push through the symptoms or stop?
Hi Amy,
I would suggest that you discontinue using the herb and see if your symptoms improve, that way you will know if the herb may have disagreed with your body. What works for some people, doesn’t work for others, especially with herbs.
Kindly, Angela HB Team
Hi, do you know if it’s safe to take Maca when I have a blood clotting disorder (factor V Leiden)? I was advised years ago to avoid the pill and HRT as eostrogen can increase my chances of a blood clot. I’m not on any medication as such but when I was pregnant (17 years ago) I did need to take daily heparin injections. I’m now 50 and experiencing peri-menopausal symptoms so I’m keen to try something to improve things but am a little wary.. any advice would be much appreciated. Thanks
What is the recommended length of time to take a break from maca, for the cycling on and off?
Great article — really appreciate the extensive information.
Hi Tamara,
Take the maca at 1 tsp per day for 3 weeks. See how it feels and monitor any symptoms or changes. If all is ok then increase to 2 tsp for another 3 weeks and see how that feels. If all ok then increase to 1 tablespoon. Which means that you take maca every day for 4 weeks and then take a week off, even through the increased dosing period be sure to take a break. This allows the cell receptors that detect maca to have a break too, so they don’t get too clever and try to shut down because you are getting maca so regularly. ~Deanna HB Team
Wow, maybe I’m one of those for whom maca doesn’t work. I just ceased hormonal birth control a few weeks ago and decided to try maca to help my hormones regain their balance – 1 tsp in my morning smoothie for about the last 2.5 weeks. The last few days I have been hit with killer PMS symptoms that are mostly focused around tummy bloat, upset and breast pain. I’m sure this could have nothing to do with the maca and is just usual readjustment chaos but I guess I’ll give it a rest. Would such a short exposure be enough to cause these symptoms? I’m also interested but wary of trying Vitex for hormone balance because I’m always concerned about swaying my hormones too much in the case I have some as-yet-unknown illness like breast cancer that could be accelerated by it. Thanks for the post.
HI Meghan,
I’m sorry you are experiencing uncomfortable symptoms. It could be a combination of both. Here is an article that might help you rebalance with seed rotation. Give it a go and let us know how you do. https://hormonesbalance.com/articles/how-to-use-seed-rotation-to-rebalance-your-menstrual-cycle/
Regards, Angela HB Team
Maca did the same for me. I had HEAVY bleeding on day 19 of my cycle, after having pretty normal cycles. My naturopath told me to take it for my slightly low testosterone.. I keep wondering if it is a coincidence too, but it must be the maca.
Hi there,
I get hormonal acne on my chin and sometimes above my lip. Will this help to balance out my type of hormonal imbalance so my breakouts will stop?
Hey Jen,
While Maca root is a wonderfully healing herbal ally, you may want to also look into nutrition and sugar balance in regards to hormonal acne. I recommend looking into the Cooking For Balance HB program. Feel free to reach out to support@hormonebalance for further support.
Healthy regards,
HB Team
Yes, I agree BUT my gut tells me that the medical profession may overlook the benefits of maca on estrogen dominant women and I feel that it is fine in small doses for us (I have had Estrogen receptive cancer and feel the problem was just as Cindy (i think it was she) said that is the very reason we should take it. I was giving my own oncologist reports on various ER pathways, and maca is a food, and not a bio-mimic type of estrogen, so I would say great! Look at the people in Peru it has helped. I never hear of breast cancer from there.
I think that is correct.
HI Lisa,
Thank you for sharing your perspective. We are all bio-individuals and what works for one person, another person will react to. We appreciate you being here.
Warmly, Angela HB Team
Hello.
In June I started with TERRIBLE and frequent hot flashes, etc. outta nowhere, menopausal at 50.
Maca has been working wonders beyond my greatest expectations! As in zero menopausal symptoms.
Now, suddenly it has stopped working. Hot flashes, drenched in sweat in the bed, mood swings, temper tantrums, etc.
Why would this happen?
Taking 1500 mg x 2 at night, black maca. Do I need to just increase, do you think?
Ever thanks,
God bless!
Hi Pricilla,
Thank you for sharing. Here is what our certified herbalist has to say about it, “Sometimes maca can plateau and every 6 weeks you should take a break for a week. Any herb with menopausal symptoms can plateau so switching to another herb for awhile may help and then go back to maca. Increasing the maca won’t probably make a difference. She could also try a different brand or type of maca to see if that would work. It is always tricky and this happens a lot.” I hope this helps.
Angela HB Team
I have fibroids and take a prescribed hormone every day, progesterone. Would you recommend taking maca along side this or do you think I could stop with the progesterone? Or maybe not take maca at all?
Hi Becky,
We can’t legally make determinations on prescribed medications but you can try the maca in small doses and build up to see how it effects you.
Angela HB Team
Thanks for your rapid response. Yes that was what I was thinking…..try and see. But I don’t want to stop the progesterone. So I’ll try both along side each other for now. The wish is to replace the pharmaceutical drug with natural
Yes Becky, very good.~Deanna HB Team
Becky how are you now?
Hi,I’m a 48 year old woman,I’ve just had a large fibroid removed,I heard about maca but in two minds,I’ve Bern told I’m going through the peri menopause,I suffer from hot sweats,bloating,low libido,electric shocks through my head,I also have a underactive thyroid,it’s not a high dose I take 50mg of levothyroxine and I don’t feel it’s working,I have to train hard to keep the weight off,and now with the peri menopause would maca pills work for me thankyou
Hi Michelle,
It may be helpful for you. It is the kind of supplement that one can tell rather quickly if it is a good fit or not. ~Deanna HB Team
I’m sure I could learn or find out about interesting things on your site but the light gray type on the white background is really hard to read and I am not going to bother changing my settings for your site since I would then have to change them back for other sites.
It’s quite frustrating and annoying. Yes, it looks good or cool or hip but it uses very poorly.
Bye
a,
Thank you for your input~Deanna HB Team
Very interesting. There are some answers about the thyroid.
Here is my problem. I have an underactive thyroid, my alternative doctor gave me natural porcine compounding pills that resolved my problem, and DHEA years ago when I had CFS and Fibromyalgia. It goes very well, but I need libido. I am taking CBD also.
I am 79, look 70,I am meeting somebody, so I need more libido.
Can I take Maca? How much and how long? Do you sell the right Maca?
Thanking you in advance
Viviane
just curious…you say you “had” fibromyalgia…are you feeling completely better now? I have had it for a long time and it is worse now that I have entered into perimenopause phase of life. Did the DHEA help quite a bit?
Hello, you could go to retrainingthebrain,com
there you can find the Dynamic neural retraining program that is helping people heal from many conditions like fibromyalgia and others.
Hi Viviane,
Maca is one of the supplements that one can tell rather quickly if it is helpful or not. It is recommended you tune into your body and see how it is responding. Here is a link to purchase https://drannacabeca.com/products/mighty-maca?oprid=61914&ref=28126. If you decide to purchase and want additional information besides what it comes with on the package, please contact the support team at [email protected]
~HB Team
I forgot to tell you I have Hashimoto thyroid.
Hi Viviane,
How are you doing now? ~HB Team
Hi Everyone I was Diagnosed with pcos due to high Testosterone and I have My menstrual cycle twice month. can I take maca to regulate my Testosyterone? Thank you
Hi Mel,
You will want to take this quiz to learn about possible other imbalances https://hormonesbalance.com/quiz/. Magdalena has shared that many times, high testosterone is a metabolic disorder that is usually caused by high sugar levels. Have you tested your fasting glucose, HA1C or insulin? They are probably elevated. Bringing them down will help and food is the safest and most natural and non-invasive way to do that. If you have questions about this or where to look next, please send us an email at [email protected] ~HB Team
I am surprised to read in your article that it’s the black Maca that’s good to reduce the prostate if you have hyperplasia of the prostate because the studies showed tyhat it was the red one who had results and not the black.
You are right, Catherine. Thanks for pointing that out. We will correct the article.
I’m taking a Maca form from Gaia, I don’t really see any difference, I took it because of my liver having “extra” duty because of my gallbladder being removed. i just read your article with links to a site with powder form, taking the powder form is that better – from the ingredients it has all sorts of added things like carrot, spinach (Dr. Cabeca version) Now I’m totally confused as to what I’m supposed to be doing
Hi Kim,
If you are not really noticing any difference at all, it may not be something you need to keep taking. ~HB Team
Thanks so much for really informative article.
Hi Snuki,
We are so pleased you have found it helpful 🙂 ~HB Team
I am 3 months postpartum and my hormones are out of whack. I have symptoms of estrogen dominance and high cortisol (just since pregnancy), and my weight has not budged despite cutting sugar (completely) and eating mainly veggies, organic proteins and good fats and exercising regularly for about 2 months now. I am 18 lbs heavier than when I first got pregnant and frustrated, because I have been so diligent in my attempts to lose the baby weight but it’s sticking around. Typically I can cut sugar and bread and I drop weight fairly easily with healthy eating and exercising.. I am currently breastfeeding, and wondering if it is safe to take maca (1-2 tsp a day) to help regulate my hormones after pregnancy?
Maca is a food with many minerals and 20 amino acids essential for baby and yourself which is also good for brain devrlopment. You can get the tablet form in indervidual capsules which is good. Give you more energy as well. Im pcos and depression and the suppliment helps alot for me. Give it a go if you would like to try it see if it works for you. Maght take a few days to reap the benifits but within 3 weeks you will notice the full effects.
I had this problem too… your lovely body is protecting itself. It might not have all the nutrients it needs so it holding on to what it can get to survive… ( or it thinks it needs too) what helped me was finding dr Wallach 90 essentials ( pill form is the most potent- and cheapest) tangy tangerine 2.0 is what it is called… you can buy from distributors or on Amazon) anyways… what I found is that when you have the proper vitamins and nutrients- then your body lets go of the weight. So give your body what it needs ( which will also nourish your little one ) and the rest will become easier.
Brittany there are several safe things you can do to amp up your digestion, utilize your food nutrients, and boost your immune system helping yourself and the baby. With adding these things I will be recommending, you should start to drop weight without issue and feel better too! First of all you may be suffering from a condition called dysbiosis. Dysbiosis is altered bowel flora. What this means is that your balance of good to bad bacteria is out of balance and yeast/fungal overgrowth will occur. Don’t be excessively alarmed though. It’s shockingly prevalent. In fact anyone who has ever been on antibiotics or steroids will have this to some degree. It’s not the only way to have this occur either. Poor nutrient intake and fungal foods like wheat/corn and even all dairy can cause this. Things that feed the bad bacteria are all types of sugar, and some sugary fruits. Any vegetable that turns into sugar , like potatoes; alcohol and certain grains as well. Please check out KNOW THE CAUSE phase 1 diet for a list of foods that are approved and wont cause yeast to keep growing. Before I mention what to do, I want to menton what not to do. Don’t consume any dairy or any wheat if you can. Both of these foods are absolutely no good for human consumption. I know they have been promoted to be health foods, but they are not at all. In fact dairy abstructs out digestive tract and causes leaky gut. It cause a glue like substance to coat the digestive tract; then we can not digest even our healthy foods we eat ON PURPOSE. It does not give us calcium but strips it from our bones causing osteoporosis. It causes our blood to become acidic(all animal proteins do this, thus a plant based diet is safest). When our blood is acidic instead of slightly alkaline, our own calcium is used to stop the process. Dairy has proteins that are not digestible with humans and sugars as well. Casein and whey. Humans are not designed to consume another species baby milk. It’s just huge business and literally keeps us unwell unfortunately. Even though it contains calcium and nutrients like everything in nature and living; it’s not for us. There plenty you can find out online if you want to search. A simple 30 minute video to get you started is….FROM SICKNESS TO HEALTH, YOU GOT MILKED. That is one of my favorites to share. There’s a lot more info on all sorts of true health solutions on this program, in case you know people who are searching for true answers instead of pharmaceutical substitutes. So I mentioned all animal proteins earlier causing acidity in our blood. This is dangerous and causes a low oxygen content. Low oxygen creates a strong setting for cancer. The proteins in animal products, including eggs; cause our human bodies to stress out, become inflamed and search for ways to rid it from us! This is linked to type 1 juvenile diabetes and other auto immune diseases. The proteins are similar to our own, but leak into our bloodstream. It’s just an unfortunate mess. Plant based, closest to nature unprocessed foods are the safest. They may not be so fun, but true heath is important. So. wheat is another digestive clogging garbage food. It causes leaky gut as well and overgrowth of yeast and fungus. I very much sucks, I know. BUT with information, you have choice and power for wellness; so that’s a great thing! Wheat also eats at your connective tissue, like joints etc. There is fungus in it which triggers allergies. corn as well has this. Check Doug’s show, KNOW THE CAUSE. It’s a great show! So there are some unfortunate truths. Here is some info to wellness; YAY! Order some supplements. You will need Dr. Ohhira’s probiotics, and if you don’t want to spend the cash for those, use a trusted company…BIOINNOVATIONS. both of these are shelf stable; so you can keep them in your purse and know they will work still for you. Next you will need digestive enzymes. I swear by these! They will help you break down and UTILIZE the food nutrients you consume. When you have altered bowel flora(dysbiosis), you can’t digest things or utilize the nutrients well at all. dairy mucks up your digestive tract don’t forget (plus wheat)! A prebiotic would help. This would help spring your good healthy flora back to a dominant state. Check online videos or reports to see which may be the best for the purpose other than good bowel movements. SO, if you restrict your diet to a more mindful one; get a few supplements and USE THEM; you will be off and running with an optimal immune system and digestibility of food and their nutrients. ALL good for you and baby! Stay away from antibiotics unless you are dying; seriously. You can take naturals that help your whole system; like olive leaf extract. This kills all sorts of viruses and bacteria and is antifungal to boot! Consider supplementing vitamin D 3 at 5000iu’s and a magnesium supplement like a citrate form as well. We are all low and you system may be as well. D3 is like a hormone. And the dose I mentioned is just a very tiny gel capsule. It can help you keep well too! Sugar shuts the immune system down and feeds yeast/fungus and cancer; so avoid it. It’s literally why flu season begins when we buy Halloween candy(start eating it) and runs till Easter is over. We have one sugar eating holiday after another! You can take a variety of immune system booster when you want to keep well or indulge a bit. Just check what would be safe during breast feeding to make sure the baby is safe. Two teaspoons of table sugar affects the immune systems ability to perform FOR 24 HOURS! Crazy, right…? Think about what one sugary indulgent coffee or soda will do; yikes! I know this is a lot to consider…but it’s the real truth Hun. I usually buy my digestive enzymes from Puritans Pride with their buy 1 get two free sale. BUT Piping Rock tends to have better deals when you break it down to quantity and serving size. Oh, if you are ever searching for a protein alternative; go vegan and read labels. Anything with whey or casein is a dairy source! We can’t use that because we are humans! It will cause us harm. By the way, you may want to have some blood work done specific to your thyroid functioning. Find a doctor who will actually do very specific tests; like for Hashimoto’s. Something most people don’t know is that fluoride causes a drain of iodine from the thyroid. Also it does not strengthen or protect teeth. It’s a poison to us all around! Pretty sad, I know. You can find healthy alternatives to making toothpaste online; or just do a good job brushing your teeth and tongue with water. One more thing. Apple cider vinegar mixed with water will help you get rid of bacteria in your mouth and create better bowel flora for you. A little goes a long way. I know it smells a bit, but it works! You could always plug your nose while you use it. Hey. best of luck to you and the little one. Keep breast feeding! It’s the best for your little one and safe until two to three years of age. After that, no milk is best!. Almond milk is great and I just found out we can make oat milk; so I’m super excited to try it out! Don’t use soy anything though. It has an estrogen affect that is harmful.
very well said! i too have come across all this info. i have ME/CFS a chronic condition. Diet has been a HUGE part of my recovery the last 6 months … my diet is AIP Paleo-keto. i was auto-immune before, i was paleo before, the real crux was giving up sugar, cereals and dairy. for me, the 3-pronged dietry attack is helping me eradicate gut dysbiosis, leaky gut AND candida overgrowth. it really seems to be all that is wrong with me. but its caused huge devestating effects. i cant drive or work for last 5 years now :'( and im considered to be ‘moderate’ level of severity. im housebound level, but independant 95% of the time thanks to modern technology.
Brit, oh my goodness! I just re-read my very LONG complete comment and it is filled with typo’s, LOL!!! Ha ha, so sad, lol. Anyway, apologies. Be well girl ! SO glad you are breast feeding. It’s literally the reason we have breasts, lol. Wish every mom understood how important it is. Love and good health to ya! Sorry for the BIG reveal on true health. BUT now you have tools to wellness! Share it! Pay it forward! With knowledge comes responsibility! Knowledge gives us power! Knowledge gives us choices! Knowledge is a gift…xoxo
Hi,
I’m about to start on my 2nd ivf cycle – I’m over 40 and have a fibroid. I’m considering to include Maca but have read conflicting and very worrisome info about the effects of Maca on fibroids. Naturally, I do not want my fib to grow ( as suggested by some studies/forums due to its estrogen enhancing properties) and affect any chance of implantation … so what are your thoughts and would you be able to point me to any / some scientific articles to rest my fears…
Thanks
Hello I have PCOS is it okay to take the red maca with vitex??
I was just diagnosed with cysts on my ovaries nothing else..
I just got off birth control pills cause I didn’t like the fact that it wasn’t natural..
What’s your thoughts??
Please and thank you 🙏🏽
Hi Nina,
Maca is something that you would need to try out to learn more on how your body responds. ~HB Team
I went for a scan and the sonographer diagnosed me with bilateral polycystic ovaries. I have no pain at all month long then i read about maca and flaxseed. I had my period on the 13th then I started taking maca n flaxseed on 23/05 then on 27/05 i started feeling cramping prior to my ovulation which is something that never happens with me… It lasted for a few hours dont know if its a good or bad thing for my unbalanced hormones… Since i started flaxseed n maca my constipation has reduced i go to the loo at least once/twice a day but before i would spent more than a 4days to a week without going to the loo. Am i adjusting to the maca n ground flaxseed or my body is rejecting it….
Hi Nita,
Are you grinding the flaxseed or taking it whole? We recommend you start only 1 new change at a time so you can know which change is causing symptoms. ~HB Team
Hi Anna, Magdalena does not use maca regularly but does use it on occasion as a pick me up in the afternoon. Her theory is that slow estrogen metabolizers may not do well on maca (you can do a 23 and me test to find this out) and for others maca feels great. It is adaptogenic in nature, not estrogenic, and will help your body make more of what you need.
Hi – I absolutely love maca. I am 64 / post menopausal. I have a family history of breast cancer which my grandmother and sister had. I personally have not had it but did have fibroids removed 20 years ago. I have read conflicting things about taking maca with this family history ..most were discouraging. So.., I take it occasionally but would love to take it regularly ..are there any new studies on this? Thanks!
Hi Cherokee,
Thank you for sharing here. You say you love maca, how long have you been taking it. ~HB Team
I recently bought some MACA but have not tried it yet. I got the results back from my Genetics testing and it shows I am estrogen dominant and a slow estrogen metabolizer. I am not sure now if I should even try the MACA after reading some of the comments. Any feedback would be greatly appreciated.
Hi Penny, it is something you would need to try out to know more. Please tune into how your body responds. ~HB Team
hi im 46 years old i been told by my GYN Doctor that i have three utherine Fibroids and the largest is 4 cm. i dont want to take the pills niether i want any surgery done to remove them. i started using the Maca powder and im wondering if i should continue with the Maca to help my Fibroids shrink ?
I have uterine fibroids and my naturopath advised me to stop taking Maca. I’ve always been active, healthy, and fit. I started taking gelatinized red Maca 3 years ago because I took advice from a fertility blog. I was taking 3 tsp in a smoothie 5-7 days a week. It caused bloating, swollen breasts, and a 10-15 lb. weight gain in about a year. As usual I would run, weight train, hike, do yoga, bike, etc. and still couldn’t lost the weight. I don’t eat sugar, wheat, eat meat only 2 times a week, eat lots of veggies. I lowered my calorie intake and didn’t lose weight. When I stopped taking the Maca, I started to lose weight! So far I’ve lost 4 lbs, but it has been slow. Also, btw, I’ve had my hormones tested several times in the last 3 years and the numbers are always good. Except, my cortisol was super high. I keep reading that Maca is supposed to help with stress response. Didn’t work with me! Not even after 3 years of taking it! Find an experienced and knowledgeable naturopath. They will do lots of tests and look at your whole body, your lifestyle, and habits. One supplement isn’t going to quick fix your health problem. It takes time with diet and lifestyle change. Don’t take a supplement based on the advice of a blog! Don’t self-diagnose.
The main thing that caught my attention in your post is that you were taking a quite large dose right from the start! My health practitioner HIGHLY advised to start with a dose less than 1/4 tsp, no more, until you know your own boundaries. If i began with the dosage you did? I would have been in the hospital with heart palpitations. Know how i know that? My very first dose was 1/3 tsp, between 1/4 & 1/2 tsp, and within 2 hours my heart was racing and skin flushed. But! I had read that these symptoms were indeed common, IF the dose is simply more that you need or can handle!
I knew then to take it down to 1/4 tsp, and all symptoms gone!
I would NOT suggest starting maca with a dose higher than 1/4 tsp, just to ‘test the waters’ so to speak…By doing it this way, you can see exactly where you need to go down in doseage, not up! Less is always better when trying to do right by our bodies, with that said, kudos to you for at least trying this, as it’s one of the most amazing additions to my new plant based lifestyle. I too am a breast cancer survivor, mine was triple negative, and was told chemo HAD to be done, as this type was very aggressive in growth…ect. LSS…I refused chemo, went awol on ALL the Dr’s, and just lived life. As i am to this day, 5 yrs later.
When ALL this research on gut bacteria and its effects in overall health surfaced for me about 6 months ago, i knew where i needed to go, but on a limited budget for making a lifestyle change, what do i do!? Research! Go to your local natural grocers, sprouts, whole foods. etc, and allow yourself time to go through the entire store simply looking, at everything. Your phone is your best friend in this instance, as you can look up ANY of the products online and see reviews. Not to mention the employees! In my case it’s at natural grocers in Colorado Springs, and they work there for a reason, they’re passionate about health and only direct me toward something if, through their own personal use, can attestify to it’s effects. All have a return policy so your not out many hundreds of dollars.
Build a trust with them, and you will see the benefits of eating organic, as why even go this route if your going to negate it all by eating as your base, foods loaded in pesticides ie; round-up found in much more of your daily consumed items than you could ever conceive would be possible, let alone legal, to do to human beings.
Through research is knowledge possible, and it’s an amazing journey to go on with just ‘you’ for company, as you break a lifetime of bad choices and worse habits along the way. Learning patience as well, as none of these changes are instant or even immediate. My moms generation allowed these monster corporations to bring to light all these ‘modern’ conveniences, designed to get the ‘cook’ out of the kitchen, and out doing whatever she fancies!
As a little girl (baby boomer here!) I would play close to where my mom would ‘iron’ everything! (Ahhhh, i still remember that wonderful original ‘clean’ fresh linen smell…any others remember that? If not, i truly pity you!) She was one of the first to jump on the ‘convenient’ bandwagon that was just making its way into the american households. I learned from an early age what ‘TV dinners’ were and oh how i hated seeing that all metal tray with foil coverings set down before me! My mom loved tv dinners, as she didn’t have to be in the kitchen for hours making the same ‘food groups’ that were (or so she thought) in these perfect kid-size ‘meals’. That’s when i began my intense hatred for ANY veggies, or fruit for that matter! As i only knew tv dinner veggies and i’d have eaten dirt before i ate those!
From my vantage point, this new found love i now have with any and all veggies and fruits, has been a long time coming, as i too, jumped on the same bandwagon my mom did, and only just recently educated myself to all the ’cause and effects’ our ‘convenience’ foods have done and the cost to our lives, and i’m thankful to have this chance to right all the wrongs done just through eating todays food…smh.
In my intense research for the best maca to consume, i found this product, and it hits all the points in the article for authentic maca, plus the relationship between this company and it’s maca growers has been a partnership since 1991. That’s important to me in researching repudiable producers before i simply ‘try’ something new. Whole world botanicals produces Royal maca superfood, a fine powder with very low dosing due to its purity. Look it up, and compare products. I found most of the ‘higher dosage’ maca is made in china, and its inferior product takes higher dosing, thus the potential for negative symptoms like others have described, are much higher.
Apologies for the length, but hopefully it helps!
Thank you for that great informative article!
Thank you Linda 🙂
Thank you for your thoughts here Jacque ~HB Team
The article clearly states that each individual is different and that one can usually tell if it’s not good for their body fairly quickly. Also, maybe you were taking too much and not cycling off an on. Not every supplement is helpful for every individual.
Good points
Hi Jen,
Thank you for sharing your experience. Maca is not always a fit, which is what the article teaches. Working with a trusted practitioner is good advice. ~HB Team
Hi Mary,
This program addresses uterine fibroids. Please take a look at the program preview series https://hormonesbalance.com/er/
~HB Team
I am post menopausal and looking for Maca to help with vaginal atrophy/ dryness. Will this actually work?
Hi Kathy, it may help. The only way to know is by giving it a try. You can start with 1 tsp daily. ~HB Team
I have the same reaction to maca (swollen breasts/ bloat) and thought I was crazy. For this reason (hormonal symptoms) worry about its safety for anyone. Why do you propose some people,like us, have this response?
Hi Lauren, We all have different root causes to how we came to be out of balance. Many women find Maca very helpful. It may come down to how we release and metabolize estrogens related to the pathways in the liver. ~HB Team
Hi, I purchased raw organic maca powder. Should I keep eating it raw or should I cook it (in the oven for example) ? Is it dangerous if I keep eating it raw? From what I,ve read on here, the advantage of cooking it would be to minimize possible thyroid inhibition and strarchy content ?? It doesnt hurt my tummy too much but I do take small dosages because I feel the surge of energy almost instantly after eating it with my morning oat meal.
Thank you for any information, Sam
Hi Sam,
Magdalena recommends Gelatinized, organic and from Peru. We do not recommend cooking it in the oven. ~HB Team
Thanks for this article on Maca. Of all the research that I have done, this has been the most helpful.
Great! ~HB Team
I am 38 years old and have no child, have been in marriage for 3 years. Again my periods has stopped please help which supplements can i take to bring back my periods.
Hi Judy, we recommend focusing on food first to balance hormones and bring back cycles, and then adding supplements in. You can find many resources for this in Magdalena’s courses~ Jennifer HB Support
Hi, I was wondering if liquid extract maca is better/worse than the gelatinized form.
Thanks you!
HI Liz, I don’t know about worse, but I do know Magdalena prefers the gelatinized form, this is always her first choice. ~ Jennifer HB Support
hi.i liked the presantation of maca.problem.i’m staying in SA. how can i get this.or can i grow it from home?pls help me.
Hi Johannes,
We recommend looking for one in your area that is gelatinized, organic and grown in Peru. ~HB Team
How many MG should you start taking when your taking the Maca pills??
Hi Valeska,
We recommend following the dosing on the bottle.
~HB Team
Can i take maca if im taking birth control pills?
I started taking maca and vitex last week. I have noticed that when my cycle started i had no cramps at all, Which was a huge plus for me. But I am also feeling exhausted more so than usual. Can this be caused by maca? (i have pcos and hashimoto thyroiditis which is under control)
Hi Colleen, great that you had no cramps! It’s possible, Maca is not for everyone. You could try taking one or the other out, and see if the exhaustion shifts. ~ Jennifer HB Support
Maca is good for certain blood types and others it does not benefit a person at all..that is why one plant does not work for all. That is why there is a list of beneficial plants that helps with the same thing. Some help others while others don’t. Maca, licorice root, dandelion, chicory root, and matcha is something I drink everyday. I can’t live without.
Thank you for sharing your thoughts Whitney 🙂 ~HB Team
Is there any scientific research supporting that claim? If yes, can you, please, share it? Which blood types work well with maca?
Thanks!
Hello ladies.
I’ve been using yellow maca for a couple of months and the hot flashes have disappeared. Super exciting, right?!
I do have a question – is black maca likely to have the same effect? Can I use the yellow and black interchangeably?
Hi Rebecca,
It is something that can vary. You may have to try it out to see how your body responds. ~HB Team
Thank you so much for this post, it is so instructive!
Hi Helene,
We are pleased you are finding it helpful. Thank you for your feedback. ~HB Team
Imecap, here is a great video Magdalena did on how to help with hair loss. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W2lp_CDK4lE&feature=youtu.be
Hello,
I’ve been taking 1500 MG of Maca in a gelatinized pill form for about almost two weeks now and haven’t really noticed any difference. Should I up my dosage of Maca?
Hi Sara, Magdalena is not able to suggest dosages out side of what she covers in her article or what is suggested on the label. It would be best to find a functional medical doctor who will help you dial into the supplement dosage that works best for you. ~ Jeanne HB Team
Hi I’m premenopausal and started taking Maca. My cycles have been 3 weeks the last few months and I’ve been breaking out with acne so I wanted to get my hormones under control.
I started my period (light) after 4 days of my first dose of one pill (2.5 weeks after my last cycle). After a week I increased my dose to 2 pills. I started bleeding again.
Should I continue on for a few more weeks and see how it works for me in the long run? I want to balance my hormones. Is this a normal part of the balancing?
Hi Janet. What works for some people, doesn’t work for others. Magdalena is not able to suggest dosages out side of what she covers in her article or what is suggested on the label. It would be best to find a functional medical doctor who will help you dial into the supplement dose and what works best for you. ~ Jeanne HB Team
Hi! Im really glad I found your post. I have been experiencing painful side breasts for an extended time during ovulation, painful ovulation, and a possible ovarian cyst totally out of nowhere since I returned from travelling this summer. I wracked my brain and finally realized I have been putting a good tablespoon of powdered maca into my coffee every single morning for the past 6 months. Never thought anything of it bc it’s a superfood right. Is it possible this could be the cause of my problems? I am 34 and have never been on birth control nor had any health problems if this matters. I would really appreciate some insight as it has been driving me crazy
Hi Joann, it’s good you are listening to your body. Maca isn’t for everyone.
Here is a little quiz to give you an idea of possible hormonal imbalances https://hormonesbalance.com/quiz/.
If you want to learn about how food can balance hormones, here is her free workshop https://hormonesbalance.com/cfb. ~Jeanne HB Team
Hi there!
I have been trying to find a “normal dosing” for females and all I have found was the most studies are between 2500-5000mg. I bought maca where I tsp is 5g. Is that about a normal dose? Because obviously at that amount I can’t work up to 1-2tbsp?
Hi Lyndsay,
It is good to follow the recommended dosing from the box/bottle that you have purchased ~HB Team
Hi
I know it’s been a couple of years since you wrote this article, but I hope you can help.
I live in London, UK, and am unable to purchase the three maca powders you recommended.
Can you think of any others?
Thank you ever so much.
Hi Veronica,
We are not sure what Maca you can get in the U.K. However, Magdalena recommends finding one that is gelatinized, organic and grown in Peru. I hope that helps. ~HB Team
Hi there. I have been doing some research on adaptogens for my hormones as I have a contraceptive implant (which is progestin only) and it has completely decreased my libido. After doing some research, it seems this is due to low levels testosterone caused by the implant.
Would maca be safe to take while on this form of contraception? I’m worried it might make it less effective.
Hi Kirsty,
The imbalance that the implanted contraception is causing is something that you will want to look further into. ~HB Team
I am a breast cancer survivor of 2 years, it seems like Maca would be a good fit for everything I have going on post cancer, however my cancer was Er/PR positive – do you recommend taking Maca since I was hormone positive cancer? Thanks!
Good question, because of your estrogen receptor positive cancer, Magdalena does not recommend Maca. However, if you do decide to try it, please tune in to the signals your body will give you. You can also make an appointment with a clinical herbalist who can help you on an individualized basis.
Healthy Regards,
HB Team
Which genetic mutation do you have that caused maca not to work well with your body?
Hi Laura,
If you are suspecting a possible issue with metabolizing maca related to genes, please speak to a practitioner about this concern. We are not able to go further into Magdalena’s specific genetic history. Thank you for understanding. ~HB Team
Can you take a maca supplement if you are already taking a HRT?
What can be the effects of taking Maca with HRT?
Hi Penny,
We do not know your medical history nor dosing. It is best that you speak to your practitioner if you want to add maca to your regimen. ~HB Team
Please how long does the side effects last I’ve been having sleep problems and itchiness like I’m barely able to sleep and the itching is driving me crazy
You should probably stop taking Maca. Your symptoms sound like an allergic reaction. Consult your physician or a holistic doctor before continuing usage
Thank you for being so supportive here Gabrielle 🙂
Hi Bella, if you are continuing to have theses side effects from Maca, please stop taking the maca. Please consult with your trusted practitioner if needed.~HB Team
Hi Bella, how long did it take for the side effects to subside. I am having the same reaction:(
I have always responded favorable to maca powder (and I have always made sure to buy the gelatinized form- I like Terrasoul brand). However, I tried the Mighty Maca plus and it made me feel terrible! Very nauseated. So I emailed the company of Dr. Anna Cabeca and asked whether the maca powder was raw or gelatinized and they confirmed that it was RAW. So I would be cautious with this product if you are sensitive to the raw form of maca, which is not very digestable.
I just want to try MACA
Hi Rusidah,
Have you tried it yet?
Hi Hilary, Thank you for sharing your experience. ~HB Team
Why would Magdalena endorse Mighty Maca that uses raw maca and say in her article to take gelatinized???
Is it only available by ordering it, or where can I find it. How much is it?
Breast Cancer is very common in my family, as well, we have issues with hormone imbalances. I was thinking of trying out Maca because of this. Is this a good idea?
Hi Emma,
Maca can be very helpful for some ladies. However, it is something that one should try out since we are all have varying degrees of imbalance. It is very important to tune into the body and see how it is responding to any new supplement. ~HB Team
I noticed that too …i read all of her articles and thought about ordering the vitamins but reading that contradiction in article has me qyestioning !
[email protected]……. can mica work for the itchy creepy crawly skin? Also where do you buy this stuff in the US?
I took Maca for fertility and it worked a treat. Even increased my AMH levels! Now after having my twins, I want to start taking it again for hormone balance but I can’t remember if I need to start taking it on cycle day 2 or after ovulation? I remember when I started last time, the point in your cycle that you start taking it is important so you don’t lengthen (or pause) your cycle. Can you tell me when during my cycle I should start?
Hey Rebecca,
Have you fins this out already? I am also wondering about this question…
Thank you for writing this article. I started off taking too much right off the bat: 1 tablespoon a day. I had terrible stomach cramps and became so bloated, I looked 6 months pregnant. I am taking a break now and will start back with 1/2 teaspoon after a few weeks or months. I use super high quality from The Maca Team. I am 53 and unfortunately my body is just super sensitive to this product.
Thank you for sharing this with us, Carolyn.
I took 1000mg Maca daily for 3 weeks and now my period is 11 days late. I’m not pregnant (doctor has confirmed it). According to my doctor I probably didn’t even ovulate. How long before the Maca leaves the system and before my cycle comes back?
That makes sense. Most women are estrogen dominant (low in progesterone ratio). Seems that Maca (which increases estrogen) would make this worse and would totally mess with your period
We have several types of estrogen in the body. So, the goal for balance is less of the “dirty” estrogen (the kind that causes estrogen dominance). Maca can be very supportive to boosting the preferred estrogen for some women. It is important to be tuned into the body and be aware of the signals it is sending when trying any new supplement.
~HB Team
Hi Cactus, without knowing your complete health history, we are unable to answer your concerns. Please consult with your primary care physician, if this is not normal for you. ~ Jeanne HB Team
I have been taking the 10,000mg tablet for over a month now. I have been fine with my period but just this month, my period is overdue for 12days. I have been having sore breast, cramps and nauseas but no period. I have tested for pregnancy 4 times but all came out not pregnant. Could Maca be affecting my period ? I have never had this before and I don’t have any medical condition. I am 44 years and never had a child.
[…] MACA DRY EXTRACT: […]
Seems that this would not be a good idea… Maca raises estrogen, so wouldn’t that make the dominance even greater?
I am using maca powder for one day. I have endometriosis and I am 37. I am facing itching whole body and hot flashes at night. Doctor also gave me birth control pills to stop my period. Can maca do conflict with this birth control pills ?
Hi Raha, If you are concerned about any supplement conflicts while taking the pill, please consult with your primary care physician. Maca is an adaptogen and helps balance estrogen levels. ~ Jeanne HB Team
Dear Raha,
Please stop eggs and dairy if you have endometriosis.
Also, please check Lara Briden website (she has a book also).
She is a great naturopath. I have dysmenorrhea and her site has helped me much.
Just want to clarify: If you’re a slow estrogen metabolizer you shouldn’t take maca at all, no matter the brand or dose?
You may want to try the free 4-day trial, to see how it works with your body, before purchasing.
Hi, I’m a bit confused about the cycling on and off. Some in the comments say 6 weeks on, 1 week off, or take for a few months then take a break. Which is it? How long on and off?
Also after taking the break, do you restart again at the previous dose or build back up again?
Lastly, instead of taking a dose of say, 1 tbsp a day all in one go, can it be spit across the day? Ie 1 tsp in a cup of tea three times a day? Perhaps that would be easier on the stomach too?
Thanks
Very good questions! Unfortunately, they did not provide answers. Disappointing.
Hello, I’m 25 years old, I got married few months ago but I have hormonal imbalance ttc, can I use maca and for how long will I use it
My naturopath advised me to take maca for my slightly low testosterone. Even though I’m 45, my hormone test was otherwise very normal and my cycle was normal around 26 days. After two months of maca with a three week break(It made me jittery and I stopped for a bit), I got a HEAVY long period on day 19, with spotting a week before that. I feel terrible and tired. If I stop, will my cycle go back to normal or will I need to seek advice on what to do to balance it again? I was doing so well for my age! Thank you!
HI Jeannie,
Maca does not work for all of us. Some of us can have a paradoxical impact, and begin having estrogen dominance symptoms. It’s best to stop Maca in this case, and likely your cycle will go back to as it was. You could try 1 -2T of freshly ground flax per day, and see if you have a better effect. Jen HB Support
[…] Maca […]
I am perimenopause and wanted to try Maca but I just read it’s not advisable if you have fibroids. I have a small uterine fibroid. What are my other options?
HI Catherine, Working on clearing estrogen dominance is your best option. Here is another article that will help.
https://hormonesbalance.com/articles/estrogen-dominance-articles/can-natural-fibroid-treatments-prevent-hysterectomies/
Jen HB Support
Hi I had an hysterectomy 2 months ago . How safe is for my condition to take maca.
I went into menopause right after my surgery and I just want to minimize the hot flashes and other symptoms.
Thank you
I’m looking forward to the author answering your question. I can’t find anyone else who asked this same question. I too had a full hysterectomy last year and I am also hypothyroid. I’ve gained almost 20 pounds from my hysterectomy, and I’m extremely fit. I started the maca as some of my post menopausal friends said it helps with weight loss. I just started a week ago. I have no side effects from it yet. Looking forward to the authors response to your question!
Hey Michelle,
Have you continued to use maca? If so, how is it working for you?
As I mentioned in the previous comment, it may be best if you make an appointment with a herbalist, naturopath or functional medicine doctor for a more individualized protocol. You might also be interested in checking out this article on hypothyroidism. https://hormonesbalance.com/articles/common-and-not-too-common-symptoms-of-hypothyroidism-and-hashimotos-disease/
Wishing you success on your healing journey!
-Taylor, HB team
Can Maca keep you from entering menopause? I skipped 5 months of cycles, after starting maca I’ve been really regular and I’m 56.
Hi Mireya,
You may want to make an appointment with a clinical herbalist for a more individualized herbal protocol. Here is a helpful link to locate one in your area: https://www.americanherbalistsguild.com/member-profiles
I have been diagnosed with a fibroid and gallstones a couple years back. I have been enjoying a drink with maca in it for over five years now. I have heard that maca helps regulate hormones, and as it is in the brassica family, it’s good for the gall bladder and liver health. In the last year and a bit I have had two periods (yes, I’m in peri) and my flooding/bleeding hasn’t happened due to the fibroid for well over a year now. I’m thrilled. But I’m confused now about the maca. Has it been the cause for my estrogen-dominance or been helpful and should I continue it? I enjoy this drink daily instead of coffee which is more detrimental for me. I have had weight gain but that was before I started taking maca, but maybe it is causing bloating? I don’t like the thought of missing my morning drink to test this out when I’m thinking it’s been doing me good. LOL Thanks for any advice. P.S. I’m in Canada and don’t know if these herbalist lists have practitioners here.
Can you take Maca with a simple fluid filled breast cyst?
Hi I’ve recently had an oophorectomy and had fibroids plus hyperplasia I have no uterus now but I am suffering surgical menopause . Hot sweats. Would maca be ok for me ??
[…] It Does Not Work for Some Women) – HormonesBalance.com. (2016, September 2). Retrieved from https://www.hormonesbalance.com/articles/the-10-hormone-balancing-wonders-of-maca/ […]
[…] I’ve been very interested in the benefits of maca for adrenal fatigue. […]
Can Maca keep you from entering menopause? I skipped 5 months of cycles, after starting maca I’ve been really regular and I’m 56.
While maca root will not necessarily stop you from entering menopause, it is an excellent supportive herb for balancing hormones. If you have more questions about maca, and if it is the right herbal ally for you, you may be interested in making an appointment with a clinical herbalist. Here is a helpful link to locate one in your area: https://www.americanherbalistsguild.com/member-profiles
Hi, this weekend is nice in support of me, because thiss time i am reading this great
informative paragraph here at my home.
Although Magdalena is not able to tolerate any maca in general due to being a slow metaboliser of Estrogen, she is ok with Dr Cabecas Mighty maca? Is this perhaps bc it is mixed with other green powders. As I fit this category it would help me to decide what to buy. Thank you.
I had this same question.
Hi Jennifer!
The free 4-day trial might be just the thing for you! Its best to give it a try for yourself to see if its a good fit, before purchasing.
Healthy regards,
HB Team
Question since you seem to know a lot about maca will it or horny goat weed affect my birth control? I have the nexplanon implant and I don’t want to get pregnant but I also am having side effects of weight gain etc and when I took it the side effects of bc went away and I was happier but I also started spotting so I’m worried it’ll make my birth control ineffective
I used to have a high prolactin level but it returned to normal after a doctor put me on a drug. Is it ok for me to take maca in trying to conceive?
It is best to speak to your doctor regarding an drug interactions.
Many clients have had success with a functional medicine doctor. If you need help locating one in your area, here is a good tool
https://www.ifm.org/find-a-practitioner/
Healthy Regards,
HB Team
Can some one from HB please answer my question? Thank you.
Hi Julie!
Because we are all so beautifully unique, it is hard to say with certainty wether Maca root is a good fit for you. If you are interested in giving Maca a try, I suggest ordered the free 4-day trial pack of her Mighty Maca Plus superfoods blend, to see how your body reacts.
Let us know how it works for you. =)
Healthy regards!
HB Team
One of the sources you Recommend contains spirulina. Studies are showing that over 90% of of spirulina being harvested is contaminated by ocean pollution and in fact can cause cancer. I personally have stopped taking any greens Or supplements that contain Spirulina.
Hi Renee, thank you for your feedback, we are unaware of this issue. Please feel free to email us your studies you have found showing that over 90% of of spirulina being harvested is contaminated by ocean pollution and in fact can cause cancer at [email protected]
Thanks!
~ Jeanne HB Team
Hi I was taking maca root not yours on capsule a day and I see none of requirements are on the tub, I was wondering why my nipples where so sore to even touch and so this morning I woke up in really bad lower abdomen pain it was so sore I thought I needed to go to hospital it eased after 10mins so I googled the side effects of maca root and it sounds the same would it do this the wrong stuff ?
Spirulina is sourced from freshwater so I’m not sure I understand the ocean pollution.
I tried maca a few years back and had to give it up due horrible body odor. It took around 30 days for the smell to come on and then around 30 days for it to leave after stopping my consumption of maca. Has anyone else ever experienced such a thing?
That could happen due to maca’s detoxifying nature. ~ Jeanne HB Team
What does the odor like in the body from the Maca? I have noticed my body scent is different. I am thinking to get off of the Mica for a couple of weeks to see if it changes to my normal scent.
Can you take this Maca if you are currently on Bioidentical Hormone Pellet therapy?
Hi Kathy, Here is Dr. Anna’s reply to your question:
You do not have to stop any of your medications or supplements while on our products. Maca is not estrogenic; it is an adaptogen and helps balance estrogen levels. Start with a small dose and increase to a full dose depending on how you feel. Please consult your doctor, if you have any concerns.
~ Jeanne HB Team
Hi, if you take Mighty Maca with water only will it break your fast?
Hi Rashida,
Yes, it is a food. ~HB Team
Is it necessary to cycle on and off if you do not take java daily? I’ve been using it 3-4 times a week for at least a year.
Personally, I have found it best to rotate any and all herbs, instead of sticking with the same thing every day.
For more personalized herbal recommendations, you may want to make an appointment with a clinical herbalist.
Healthy Regards,
Taylor, HB Team
I am at High growth hormone (Acromagely). Which Colour of Maca powder is good and how much should I intake.I am 46 years of aged woman
Vijaya
You may be interested in giving the Mighty Maca ,referenced in the article, a try. =)
Hi Taylor, I think she is asking if maca will cause her ‘hair’ to fall off
Hi Eve,
Thank you for you comment. I’ve actually heard that Maca prevents hair loss. I don’t think we would promote a product that would cause hair loss.
Healthy Regards,
Sarah
[…] is an adaptogen, meaning it can adapt to the needs of different bodies. It has a balancing effect on hormones and has been proven to help manage the symptoms of PMS and to reduce blood pressure, hot flushes […]
Would the macca cause my hear to fall?
Hi Jan,
I am not sure what you mean. However, if you have specific health concerns regarding Maca, its best to make an appointment with a clinical herbalist who can assist you on a more individual basis.
Healthy Regards,
HB Team
[…] is an adaptogen, meaning it can adapt to the needs of different bodies. It has a balancing effect on hormones and has been proven to help manage the symptoms of PMS and to reduce blood pressure, hot flushes […]
Hi Magdelena is the organic traditions maca for women good to take?
Hey Filitsa,
Typically we do not speak on other brands of supplements. However, we do offer a separate blog article titled “How To Trust a Brand of Supplements” that you may be interested in checking out.
Otherwise, one of the brand I enjoy is Mighty Maca.
Healthy Regards,
HB Team
Can someone that have hypertension take black maca pills?
I would recommend making an appointment with a clinical herbalist, who can assist you with a more individualized protocol.
Hi I’m tring for a babyear or 2 hahaha will macall help me?
Can you take Maca if your on hormone replacement therapy
Hi Filitsa,
Its best to talk to your health practitioner and make sure Maca root is a good fit for you.
Healthy Regards,
HB team
[…] as you get used to the taste, if you prefer. Maca does wonders for hormone balancing: learn more here and […]
[…] an article published in March 2020 by Magdalena Wszelaki, she states, “Maca in perimenopausal and menopausal women has […]
[…] 9 Advantages of Maca Root (and Potential Facet Results) – https://hormonesbalance.com/articles/the-10-hormone-balancing-wonders-of-maca/ […]
[…] https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/322511.php#ten-benefitshttps://www.healthline.com/nutrition/benefits-of-maca-root#section5https://hormonesbalance.com/articles/the-10-hormone-balancing-wonders-of-maca/https://www.texaschildrens.org/blog/2015/07/maca-root-viagra-menopausal-womenhttps://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0308814602001334https://draxe.com/nutrition/top-5-maca-root-benefits-and-nutrition/ […]
Does Maca affect birth control pill in any way?? I want to try it but don’t wanna get pregnant.
Hi Francesca,
It is best to consult with your medical professional regarding drug interactions. In the meantime, you might be interested in checking out this article Magdalena wrote regarding birth control pills.
https://hormonesbalance.com/articles/pill-can-seriously-affect-womans-health/
Hi guys!
Maca is a great food, it’s worked pretty good for me. I took Red Maca powder for 2 to 3 weeks everyday and everything in my body became so big including my breast.
But remember if you have endometriosis stay very far away from Maca. It’s increased estrogen 2× It will worsen your condition. I had pain that was unbearable, chest pain and I couldn’t breath. Feels like someone gave me a terrible blow inside my lungs as you know endometriosis associate with monthly period. To make it worse, no one was home until late evening,my sister came back from work and met me crulling and crying on the floor. We all love to look good,but remember health is wealth. Let us learn to appreciate the way we were, most interesting thing is that my husband loves me just the way iam.
Stay alive for your love ones. Stay blessed!
That is so incorrect and untrue, do your research, maca does not contain estrogen or phytoestrogen.
I have irregular periods. You said in the article that you should take it for a few months, then take a break. How long of a break? And should you take it daily (when not on break) or should there be a time during the month when you don’t take it in order to have a regular monthly cycle?
You have to find what works best for you.
Some women choose to take maca root for 2-3weeks, and then take a week break. While others find taking maca root for up to 4 months and then taking a 1-4 month break works best for them. If you have more questions about maca, and specific herbal protocols, you may be interested in making an appointment with a clinical herbalist. Here is a helpful link to locate one in your area: https://www.americanherbalistsguild.com/member-profiles
For further assistance regarding irregular periods, please feel free to reach out to [email protected].
Healthy Regards,
HB Team
Hey KR,
I personally take Maca every day for a month (or a couple days a week for a couple months) and then take a 4-6 week break. For more personalized recommendations, it may be best to make an appointment with a clinical herbalist who can create an herbal protocol designed for you specifically. =)
Hi I was having low estrogen levels so now I’m put on combination birth control but I have been having trouble gaining weight and I see the benefits it has and I really want to get on it I’m wondering if it makes the birth control work less or what
Hey Norhan,
I actually recommend checking out this blog article for more information regarding birth control.
https://hormonesbalance.com/articles/pill-can-seriously-affect-womans-health
Healthy Regards,
HB team
Hi, I’ve been taking maca for a few months and am getting sensitive teeth. Is this a known side effect?
Ive read various information about colors of Maca and what each represent. For example yellow being best for women and black best for men. Which type of Maca do you recommend for women?
Hi Chantal,
That’s interesting, but to our knowledge, that isn’t a side effect. Maca contains a lot of calcium which would be good for your teeth. Not sure what you’re experiencing. You might consult your doctor or dentist about this.
Healthy Regards,
HB Team
Do you have to be a certain age to take Maca ? I’m 17 & struggle with Overcoming stress and definitely depression most times. I also heard it’s good for gaining weight ?
Hi Ky!
I recommend making an appointment with a Clinical Herbalist and or a Functional Medicine doctor who can help you on a more individualized basis. =)
Here are a couple resources to help you with your search:
https://www.americanherbalistsguild.com/fundamentals
https://www.ifm.org/find-a-practitioner/
Healthy Regards,
HB Team
I was hoping you clarify something for me. I suffer from chronic stress. My hormones are completely out of balance. I do have a thickened uterus and known to get uterine/ovarian cyst. You said women with estrogen sensitive issue, like those I mentioned. Use with caution or not at all because it can increase your estrogen. Yet, previously mention in this article you stated “Unlike HRT or drugs like antidepressants, maca helps tone the HPA axis to support the body’s own production of numerous hormones, increasing or decreasing their levels according to what you individually need. ” seems like a contradiction. Maca root sounds perfect for my normal issues, chronic fatigue, stress and anxiety, and my thyroid.So, does this alter hormones based on individual needs, or no?
Thanks
Hi Rebecca,
Thanks for reaching out. This is an adaptogen, and can work to downshift the nervous system which is why it is great for balancing the HPA axis. It doesn’t work for all women, and some of us have a paradoxical effect, and that is why she also mentions a caution. We don’t know why this happens, it might be due to a disrupted digestive system, or just simply because we are all individuals, and react differently to different things. We hope that helps. HB Support
[…] If you’re struggling with estrogen dominance and would like to learn more about how to balance your hormones, I invite you to join my Estrogen Reset program. […]
hi there, great article.
I’ve just started taking a really good quality Maca product and one week in, I’ve been feeling very emotional and crying lots. I am someone who hardly ever cries or feels emotional, especially not feeling sad. In the past during PMS I could feel irritable and be snappy, but never sad. I am wondering whether 10 years of chronic stress and ‘having to keep my shit together’ for this time, meant that I have suppressed such emotions. And now that I am healing with Maca and lifestyle changes, and no longer being exposed to this previous level of stress, that this means I am kind of releasing a lot of emotions currently.
Alternatively, I am wondering whether my body has too much estrogen now with using maca and that makes me emotional.
Would love to hear your thoughts.
Cheers.
Julia
Hi Julia,
It may be a good idea to meet with a clinical herbalist who can help you explore these thoughts more fully. https://www.americanherbalistsguild.com/fundamentals
Thank you for all this maca info! You mentioned to take a break after a few months of daily maca intake. How long should the break be in order for the body’s receptors to detect maca again?
As a man Walmart sells a supplement Maca root is supplements ok I can’t see myself fixing Maca meals but feel I need the benefits of it Thanks!
I have high prolactin..will taking yellow maca reduce my prolactin levels?
To my knowledge, there has not been any clinical evidence that Maca will reduce prolactin levels. However, Maca is known to be quite supportive of the endocrine system (check out point 4. Adrenal support).
For further support, you may consider making an appointment with a clinical herbalist.
Healthy Regards,
HB Team
Can I ingest Maca powder to balance my hormones while on birth control
Why dose Maca cause yeast infections in some women? I only get a yeast infection when I take this is there anything I can do to stop this from happening so I can continue Maca
Hey Mel,
Maca may just not be the herb for you! There are many other wonderful herbs that might be a better fit.
You may consider meeting with an herbalist who can come up with a specific herbal formula for you.
Here is an excellent tool to find an herbalist in your area: https://www.americanherbalistsguild.com/fundamentals
Thank you for all this maca info! You mentioned to take a break after a few months of daily maca intake. How long should the break be in order for the body’s receptors to detect maca again?
Hey Denise!
I personally take Maca every day for a month (or a couple of days a week for a couple of months) and then take a 4-6 week break. For more personalized recommendations, it may be best to make an appointment with a clinical herbalist who can create an herbal protocol designed for you specifically. =)
Healthy Regards,
HB Team
Can maca stop acne from taking Plan B?
At the beginning maca is said to be high in iodine. Later maca is said to block iodine absorption. I was wondering which is which because this is contradictory. Thank you for all of this information about maca.
[…] Yet another plant that can act like a natural HRT in the body is maca. This South American root will signal your body to ramp up its estrogen production if levels are low. You can learn more about the benefits of maca by reading this article. […]
Why is Maca so constipating? I want to love Maca — but its constipating even at 1tsp day.
Likely the fiber content. Make sure you’re taking the organic gelatinized kind, and try taking it once every few days until your body adjusts. I love to order mine from The Maca Team. You may also want to try different forms like the pill instead of powder, or take it in liquid form. They have a beginner friendly form of Maca that is in a liquid dropper form. That may help you.
Hi Laura,
Great question. It causes constipation because of the iron intake. You might try taking less, for less time, and drinking more water. Hope this helps.
Healthy regards,
HB Team
Is maca safe for breast cancer there are mixed reports on the negative can you clarify
Hi Jayne,
It’s hard to say. You might speak with your doctor about the benefits and the downsides to be sure how it could affect you, personally.
Healthy Regards,
HB Team
Hi Sarah
Can someone with cervical dysplasia take maca root?
Thanks.
Hi May. This is a great question to discuss with your functional medicine practitioner!
– HB Team
Hi May, Did you ever find an answer to this?
Can maca stop acne from taking Plan B?
Hi May,
I haven’t heard of that causing acne or that maca would help. You might ask your doctor about this.
Healthy Regards,
HB team
Does using a cream with macca in it have the same effects as ingestion? I’ve heard that it can cause pregnancy (by ovulation stimulation) and I don’t want to risk that if I’m using it as a cream to grow my glutes and not eating it
Hi Tina. Maca itself will not cause pregnancy, however it has been used traditionally as an adaptogen to boost fertility. It is very possible to enjoy maca and continue to naturally avoid pregnancy. Please consult with your health practitioner if you have additional questions or concerns about your intended use with maca cream.
– HB Team
[…] Es rica en vitaminas C y A, así como en B2, B6 y niacina. También está llena de minerales, que incluyen hierro, zinc, yodo, calcio, cobre, magnesio y potasio. Además es rica en esteroles vegetales beneficiosos que están relacionados bioquímicamente con hormonas como el estrógeno, la testosterona y la progesterona. Y contiene ácidos grasos saludables, que son beneficiosos para el corazón y parecen ayudar a estabilizar los niveles de glucosa en sangre y reducir la inflamación. […]
[…] It Does Not Work for Some Women) – HormonesBalance.com. (2016, September 2). Retrieved from https://www.hormonesbalance.com/articles/the-10-hormone-balancing-wonders-of-maca/ […]
[…] has long been a go-to supplement for women in menopause because it boosts the production of estrogen, which helps to relieve symptoms. Pre-menopausal […]
Can I take macca while on synthetic. HRT?
Can I take estrogen and maca together.
please answer the above question – can you take macca while on synthetic HRT?
Maca has not been shown to have any interactions with medications/hormonal replacement treatments but that being said, it is always important when using HRT or any medication to have a good functional medicine doctor or Naturopathic doctor who specializes in hormones guiding you through using herbs. They would know your specific case and situation best. ~HB Support
[…] https://hormonesbalance.com/articles/the-10-hormone-balancing-wonders-of-maca/ […]
[…] on male cyclists showed that after 2 weeks on maca supplements, their speed improved, as well as their sexual desire (more on this […]
I have hypopituitarism and so produce very little hormones. I am on thyroid medicine and cortisol to boost my cortisol production. I want to ovulate but my hormones are not kicking out. Do you think this will help me?
Hi Misty, it would be discuss with this your health practitioner to determine whether Maca would be a good fit for you or if it is a contraindication to any of your medications. If you’re in need of an integrative or functional practitioner, this link will get you connected to someone in your local area: https://www.ifm.org/find-a-practitioner/~HB Support
hi 🙋🏻♀️
i was wondering what type of Maca i should take – white, red or ?
, i am 48 yrs old
going through peri menopause, period is still normal
but i have a history of pituitary adenoma in the past
i am keeping it under control naturally
can i still take Maca?
thank you
Hi, it would be best to consult with a clinical herbalist to determine what form of Maca would be best for you. They have the best training and background to support you with this question. ~HB Support
thank you
i figured that would be your answer 😇
p.s.
to Kamalani Remley- i thought you were the owner of this blog and i replied to you assuming you were Magdalena
I was actually asking Magdalena the blog owner
✊🏻😎
Hi Elizabet, I am apart of her team! Although Magdalena isn’t able to respond to comments, we are always here for any questions that come up. 🙂
~HB Support
Hi Can you take Macca root when taking HRT?
Is it safe to take Maca with black cohosh?
Hi Terri, since Maca can stimulate estrogen production, it will be important to consult with a clinical herbalist to determine whether this would impact your HRT. This link can help you find one in your local area, https://www.americanherbalistsguild.com/member-profiles.
I hope this helps. ~HB Support
I am a female and want to use maca to increase libido but do not want to get pregnant? Should I be concerned about increased fertility?
Hi Shay Shay, Maca is an adaptogen which means it helps support your hormones “adapt” to what they need whether that is an increase in adrenal hormones or support decreasing estrogens or any other manner of hormonal imbalance. It literally helps us adapt to stress. That being said, it is due to this and its high amount of vitamins and minerals that it helps improve fertility in those individuals with a decrease in their fertility. If you are not struggling with fertility and/or are doing some sort of birth control method, Maca may only increase your energy and libido. ~HB Team
Can taking maca cause symptoms for someone with endometriosis? I am in menopause after having an ovary removed (along with uterus) due to endo and my doc recommended maca for hot flashes but now my endo symptoms have returned! Could the maca be stimulating more
Estrogen causing the endo pain?
Hi Nancy, although uncommon, some women do not respond well to Maca. This all comes down to your biology and if you have a sensitivity to this herb. In addition, if you have a thyroid issue or have a sensitivity to iodine, this herb may not be the best option for you as it does contain iodine. You know your body best, so if you feel this isn’t the right option for you then you may be right. ~HB Support
[…] 14) The 10 Hormone Balancing Wonders of Maca (and Why It Does Not Work for Some Women) – HormonesBalance.com. (2016, September 2). Retrieved from https://www.hormonesbalance.com/articles/the-10-hormone-balancing-wonders-of-maca/ […]
Hi, is Maca safe for someone who had Estrogen/progesterone+ ovarian cancer. I’m now in menopause due to hysterectomy and I can’t take HRT, but I was wondering if Maca could help with meno symptoms? Thank you
Hi Ela, Maca can stimulate some estrogen production in some women so should be used in moderation and under the guidance of a good functional medicine doctor who can monitor your levels and guide you through its use. Hope this helps! ~HB Support
[…] https://hormonesbalance.com/articles/the-10-hormone-balancing-wonders-of-maca/ […]
[…] https://hormonesbalance.com/articles/the-10-hormone-balancing-wonders-of-maca/ […]
[…] to Hormones Balance, protein is essential for your body to create muscle, burn fat, and maintain the health of all your […]
[…] 2 – Hormones Balance […]
[…] has long been a go-to supplement for women in menopause because it boosts the production of estrogen, which helps to relieve symptoms. Pre-menopausal women […]
Maca was an abswolute life saver for me. I was having extreme nauseating, full-body-drenching hot flashes every 15 minutes around the clock. I tried many different herbal remedies, but nothing helped till I tried Maca. It stopped the hot flashes all together and gave me my life back. I finally reached a point where I didn’t need it anymore and haven’t taken it for years, but wonder if it would help me to take it again at age 62. I’m 12 years past menopause.
what kind of maca is good for perimenopause ?
Any recommendations?
I take Peruvian Maca from Whole World Botanicals
it didn’t help much with symptoms
thanks
Hi- I started taking Navitas Organic Maca Powder two and a half months ago. I’m 52, perimenopausal. After not menstruating for six month and then having sporadic periods, I had (2) 28-day cycles while taking 1/2 tsp of maca/day, but the second period lasted 11 days. I started Dr. Cabeca’s Keto-Green diet right at that point, and taking her Mighty Maca supplement, while discontinuing the Navitas. Now I’m spotting and feel like I want to cry all the time, and having rage/mood swings. Is the maca making me too estrogenic? Prior to this, my estrogen and progesterone have been tested at practically zero, by a functional physician. Thanks in advance to anyone who can help.
Hi Abby, It sounds like that version may not be working for you. Not all supplements work for all people, and sometimes Maca does not work for everyone. Here is a link to another article on Maca that talks about “Is it right for you” https://hormonesbalance.com/articles/is-maca-right-for-your-hormone-health/
I hope that helps – Jennifer
Thanks Jennifer!