So I had my appointment with the Chinese Herbalist / doctor yesterday and I learnt a couple of things from the consultation that are definitely worth sharing.
A word of caution about maca root powder
I’ve been talking a lot lately about maca root powder and how I think it has helped my skin heal a lot. You also might have read how over the Christmas period I had extremely bad PMT which lasted for over two weeks. I suffered from depression, anxiety, headaches, insomnia and a had a really bad acne breakout. At the time I thought I was just unlucky that month and that the PMT symptoms were due to a large amount of stress in my life. Yesterday, I learnt that this PMT, emotional state and massive breakout were actually due to the amount of maca root powder that I was taking.
Be careful with maca, there is such a thing as too much too soon. I read a forum posting on the net today, and my herbalist confirmed it. Maca root actually can exasperate your hormonal symptoms and make them worse. It’s also an energy booster so this is why I was feeling like my heart was beating faster all the time, I felt a heap of stress and I couldn’t sleep at night. In fact, my herbalist is not a fan of maca and does not recommend it. The only reason he agreed that perhaps I should continue to take it was because for the past week with continued use of the maca, my skin has started to clear, I’ve been happy all the time and not anxious or depressed at all. In other words, maybe my hormones have finally balanced out. Maybe it’s from the maca, or maybe not. He suggested that I keep taking it because it’s working, but if I experience the crazy PMT and mood symptoms again, that I should immediately stop taking it.
I’ve been taking the full recommended dosage – four capsules a day. I’m going to try halving that and taking two capsules only to see if it makes any difference. Maca is really helpful for people with low libido and low energy and is great for women going through menopause. I don’t have either of those and I’ve read that women who just want to control their PMT can take a lower dose, so I think I should be okay with just the two capsules. I just want it to help keep my hormones balanced.
If you are going to start taking maca powder, I urge you to start slowly, because chances are the same thing will happen to you. The aim here is to make your skin clear and balance your hormones. If you take a lot of maca root (a lot is actually the recommended maximum dosage on the bottle) then you are likely to get a massive breakout like I did, and the mood disorders that go with it. Start really slowly. For the first two weeks I’ve even advise you to quarter the maximum dosage. Then after two weeks, and only if you feel you need it, slowly up the dosage.
I’ve read some advise by a maca manufacturer on the net which sounded quite good. They said to have some days off from the supplement. So for every week have one day off, for every 2 weeks have 2 days off, and for every 2 months have 2 weeks off. This is just to make sure you keep it all in moderation. To be honest, I don’t like the idea of being on any supplement for ever so I don’t plan to be on it for that long. I’m going to give it a couple of months, then go off it and see if it makes a difference.
I’ll be your guinea pig
I’m still taking the maca root powder supplements so I’ll let you know how my symptoms go. If you want to wait another three or four weeks, then I’ll be able to tell you exactly how the maca is working for my before and during my cycle, and if it removes my PMT symptoms and breakouts, or if it yet again makes it worse. Wow, I feel like I’m a human guinea pig, or sacrificing my skin for science or something!
I’m actually a bit annoyed that this information is made more available on the net. If there was clear warning on the packaging of the maca or on the Internet, then I wouldn’t have taken so much so soon. Nowhere was there any warning or information for me to read about the possible bad side effects. In my opinion, there should be clear warning on the packaging, or in an information leaflet. Something like – ‘At the start of your treatment only, certain isolated premenstrual symptoms may be slightly increased’. The other supplement I’m taking, Premular (which is vitex agnus-castus), comes with that warning and it made me have second thoughts about taking it. And if your symptoms do get worse, it is then a good indication as to why they’re getting worse, and then you can choose to continue using the supplement or give it another month to see if it gets better. One of the worst things about some sort of problem in your body is not knowing why it’s happening. So, if you do decide to take maca and your symptoms do get worse, I’m telling you why, so you can now be prepared.
How my doctors appointment went
In case anyone’s wondering, at my doctors appointment yesterday I chose not to ask for antibiotics! I’ve been so happy with how my skin has been clearing up that I decided not ask for them for now. I did however ask for his opinion on taking antibiotics to clear skin, because he’s a natural therapist that I’ve been seeing for almost twenty years I value his opinion and trust him a lot. He was okay with prescribing antibiotics for my acne, I think because he knows that I’ve been trying to heal my skin naturally for months now. He said the only real risk with the skin antibiotics is if you’re pregnant, because it can affect the unborn child’s teeth. Well, I don’t have a significant other so there’s no chance of any pregnancies!
If my skin gets bad again, he suggested that if I wanted to, I could go on the antibiotics for one week to see how it goes. People can be on them for up to 6 months so a week sounded a lot better than 6 months. He actually wrote me a prescription then forgot to give it to me. I’m considering calling up the surgery today and going in to pick it up but some part of me knows that if I have that prescription in my hands I’ll be too tempted to use it. My skin is healing so well so why don’t I see it out and see if it continues to heal without the use of any drugs. We’ll see.
Fran
269 responses ↓
call them up and tell them to tear up the prescription! otherwise you won’t be able to ‘all natural’ anymore
Try and hold off from the antibiotics if you can. Once they clear up your acne, it is hard to give them up. I was on mild antibiotics for acne for YEARS and I really regret it.
Hi,
I’m just wandering if you have any updates on this article. My chinese herbalist/acupuncturist recommended that I take maca powder to help give me more energy, increase my libido and balance out my mood swings during PMT. She unfortunately didn’t know what dosage I should take and there is nothing on the bottle.
Any more feedback you have would be great.
Hi Emma,
Hmm, I’m not particularly happy that your herbalist told you this. First – for girls it’s important that you ONLY take maca on days 1-14 of your cycle (day 1 being the first day of bleeding). Take it on the other days and you may get worse pmt and breakouts which is what happened to me.
Go and buy another brand of maca from the health food store, and start with 1/4 of the dosage, if you find that you’re not getting any symptoms like stomach upset, then slowly increase to 1/2, then the full dosage.
Good luck …and make sure if you have any bad side effects at all, you stop taking it immediately. And I’d also love to hear how it all goes.
HI,
I started taking maca & felt great within 2 days but suddenly developed really painful varicose veins..has anyone else had this?
Bernie, stop taking the maca ..that’s not normal.
I’m male and have never used maco before. My energy is kind of low and someone recommend that I should try maca.
This is my question for those who knows: If I were to take the full dosage (4 capsules) a day, do i swallow all 4 at once? Or do I have to split them.. like 2 in the morning and 2 in the evening?
Anything wrong if I take them all at once instead of splitting it?
Hi Yen, I’d be careful with Maca because it’s actually an aphrodesiac ..so you need to be okay with it also increasing your sex drive.
A much preferred natural energy boost is gin seng or my personal favorite – bee pollen.
Thanks for the warning. I’m kind of new to all this natural medicine stuff and I’m currently using my own body as a test, just like you but not for acne.
I have been on maco for 4 days now and so far I don’t see any changes… I’m planning to try 4 capsules (3g) in one meal and I’m wondering if this is the correct way to consume the full dosage.
I’ll try out Ginseng and bee pollen when I’m done with my Maca experiment. After 20 days, I’ll let you and your readers know how Maca went for me but first I would like to know if taking 4caps with one meal is the correct way of taking the full dosage.
thank you for your web page info. i took a supplement with maca root in it and slowly built up some sort of toxicity even though i was taking way below the recommended dosage. the only thing in the supplement i hadnt had before was the maca and i got the same symptoms you described plus more. I had rapid heart beat, crazy emotions, sweats, anxiety and panic attacks, nausea like my body was trying to expel some poison, heat sensations that flowed through my body. i have stopped taking it and am starting to feel better again. from now on i am not taking anything that doesnt have substantial valid research behind it. anyone can claim “no known adverse effects” when no real research has been done because there are no regulations stopping them from doing this. pretty scarey.
i have been taking the full dosage of maca for the past 4 months. in the beginning, my peri-men. symptoms totally went away, and i felt so energized. lately, however, i have been experiencing lethargy, confusion and rapid heart beat. anyone hear of these side-effects before?
twe- There seems to be a heap of different side effects that can happen. Maybe try going off it for a while to see if you get better, of visit a naturopath for advise.
fran, thanks. i googled “maca side effects” but get no answers. i will go off of it for a while. maybe i am taking too much for my body chemistry or something.
Where can I find the Maca tablets you recommend in the US? Every website is located in Australia.
I am a 47 yr old male I started taking maca 525 mg 3 times a day. I did not notice any benefits after a week so I doubled the dosage. Well my libido definitely kicked in. ;o)…… About 1 week later I got extreme intestinal distress. I got the worst diarrhea for about 3 days and lost 10 lbs. It was like food poisoning. I thought it might have been something else I ate at a restaurant so when I got better, I started back on the maca and the exact same thing happened. Now I am afraid to take the stuff. Anybody else get ill from maca root?
Trecia- try at your local health food stores, that’s where I first found mine.
Hi Kris, stomach upset is one of the most common side effects of maca. You’ll have to either greatly reduce your dosage (and gradually build up) or unfortunately stop taking it.
There are many natural aphrodisiacs available if that’s what you’re looking for
ok, so i found out that the maca is not responsible for “side effects” that i was experiencing. i LOVE maca. i feel more energized when taking it.
Hi Fran,
Thanks for the advice. I spoke with my herbalist on Saturday and she has advised me to take the max. dose for days 1 to 14 and the min. dose for days 15-28. Prior to this I had been taking the minimum dose as I was nervous about the side affects. Unfortunately so far I’ve noticed no change. Would be great for that libido to start kicking in any time now.
I have been generally feeling happier but this isn’t specifically since I started taking Maca root. I find with natural medicines that it feels like I’m taking so many different things it’s hard to isolate what’s working and what’s not.
I’m taking Maca root tablets in the orange bottle – 4 being the max. dose and 1 being the min. Is this the brand everyone else is taking? How many mg should one tablet be?
Thanks, Emma
i started taking 2 500 mg tabs a day,after the fourth day i was getting headaches,, feeling of confusion,mood changes, and caused stomach up sets and cramps,, i do not take it anymore, and think maca is quite a harmful product to a person that cant handle it.
I started taking Maca a week ago. I took the dosage recommended on the bottle, i.e 3 capsules twice a day. Understand that each capsule contains 500 mg, which adds up to 3000mg per day.
After only 3 days, I had light stomach cramps and a week later, I was really sick (vomiting and bad heartburns).
I stopped right away but it took me 3 full days to recover.
Ive taken meca in the past and still take meca to give me a engry boost in the gym, ive actuly taken meca and korean ginseng together with no sides, longest ive run on meca is 6 months non stop with no problms, at that time i was bulking up , iv read the replys on here about meca meca work different on different people i never noticed and change in my skin or maybe i was more forced on gaining muscle. i dont reccomend taken meca and korean ginseng together theres been reports people who have had bleeding in the brains
korean ginseng does the same effect as meca but just a different plant
Trecia heres a site where u can get hold of meca in usa this is where i get mine form theres different companys that make meca the 1 i take is by now foods,to bad its out of stock thats the most populer, you can have a look at the others what ever suits u
http://www.iherb.com/ProductsList.aspx?c=1&cid=1941&gclid=CM6rl8yH_pMCFQ4YQgodMST2Vw
I have been taking maca for well over a year and have never experienced any of the side effects mentioned above although I am now taking one whole teaspoon morning and night. I increased my dose because of menopausal symptoms and sudden development of arthritis in my hands. I do worry though that I might be taking too much and be doing some harm. i have been trying to find out why maca shouldn’t be taken with ginseng and found that information about bleeding on the brain frightening. if they work similarly, then my large dose perhaps could be dangerous.? For the record, I find that it is benificial for depression and energy but not libido and it has not affected my weight. I would like to find out more on Black maca and how to get it.
I’ve been taking maca root for a few weeks now and have definitly noticed some side effects. i hadn’t read this before i started taking it so I was taking a teaspoon a day, like 3 “00″ size capsules a day. I was experiencing hot flashes and terrible pms. My cycles are very irregular so it is a good sign that I got it while taking it, but the pms was terrible. Cramps and I wanted to die. I also had the worst skin Ive had in months, but Ive continued taking it hoping that things will finally balance out after a bit and get better. I’ll keep everyone posted and i’ll take fran’s advise and only take it days 1-14. thanks
Oh just a few more side effects- more prone to heart burn and i have vomited twice in the past few weeks, which is not common for me. And my breasts before my period were terribly swollen and tender. If I had been with someone, i’d have thought i was pregnant with the heartburn and nausea and breast tenderness. anyhow thanks everyone for the info.
I have been taking Maca for about 4 months and have been having Muscle spasms in my colon for about 4 months. Has anyone else experienced this? Also I had severe heartburn, racing heart, headaches, insomia, and cold chills, like i had the flu. I stopped taking them.
As far as the sex drive it really improved when I was taking it.
Thursday it will be one week off the Maca pill. I finally had two nights sleep with any spasms I feel like I am having a with drawal from drugs. My sex life has come back to normal. I would rather stay normal then have any of those loisy spasms. They are horible and I will never take them again.
I have been taking maca for well over two years. At times a little tightness in the chest, and particulary quick digestion when a great deal is consumed( more than 4 teaspoons), but nothing too intense.
When taking maca more energy and alertness seem to be present, and less sleepling required. In order to acheive these properly regular exercise is also helpful.
It is a fact that maca is certainly useful for me, however it will depend on your body type and your doshas i.e. khapa, pitta, and vata or mucus, bile and wind.
The three doshas enable the spiritual and mental planes of existence to express themselves through the physical body. Vata is in charge of all motion in the body and mind. Everything that moves, from a molecule to a thought, moves because of vata, and every motion of any kind influences every other motion….Pitta is in charge of all transformation in the organism. Digestion of food by the gut, of light by the eyes, and of sensory data by the brain are examples of pitta’s activities. Kapha is the stabilizing influence in the living being. It lubricates, maintains and contains, and its various activities, like those of vata and pitta, are interrelated.
Anyway all the best, Simon.
maca root was described in the book ‘mothers Prevent Your daughters from getting Breast Cancer” by sherill sellman as a herb to increase progesterone deficiency and mentioned dr.muller’s company that produced it. The different side effect has to do with your own hormone level For menstruating women it makes sense not to take it for the whole hormonal cycle as the need to be a balance between before ovulation and after.
I have taken maca four months and wondered why my I was getting colon spasms so bad that I couldn’t sleep at night my body was wasting away. I can’t say that it doesn’t work for everyone but for me I stopped taking it and My colon spasms for five months & the spasms disapeared and finally I can sleep at night. Dr. said I need to take ten inches off of my colon but not now. No no no I can’t use it. It may work for others but it doesn’t work for me.
I herd that maca helps store your fat in the proper places.. have any of you maca users experienced this?
As in loss of belly fat and gain in the hips or bust?
This has been the most informative thread I have found so far on Maca. I’ve been trying a Maca product called Femenessence and have been experiencing a mixed bag of results and since I have started taking it, I really have seen no improvement in my hot flashes. I have had some dizziness and tenderness in my left breast which has a cystic problem right on a nerve. I have suffered through some of my worse nights of sleep. It’s helpful to see Fran’s comments about starting w/ a low dose, that is what the folks at NHI recommended and I have tried, but I am leaning towards returning the product. I think I definitely have the symptoms of a heat-based hormone system. I’ve scheduled w/ a naturopath that specializes in women’s health so we will see if she can help end this 10 year surgical menopause.
I really feel like I was doing better just taking vitamin supplements, omegas, calcium. magnesium.
I took maca to regulate my hormones after removal of a fibroid, I am now bleeding very heavily on an early begun period. I had not bled like this since the removal of my fibroid 8 months ago. I agree that this herb is very potent and should not be taken so easily. especially by women who are not menopausal yet.
I should also mention that it disrupted my sleep patterns, and caused me excessive daytime sleepiness as well as night time insomnia, completely opposite what they advertise on the many websites for this root.
Wow, I am so glad that I read your article. I also just started taking maca and yesterday I had the worst premenstrual depression that I have experienced in a very long time. I was breaking out crying, I had no self-esteem, and I looked like hell! I hadn’t so much noticed any additional pain increase or bloating, although my cramps are normally painful each time so it is hard to say. What I did notice was an extreme anger, almost a rage, in which I offended those around me at the time. I also noticed that the onset of my menstrual cycle was a week early, as in the last one ended less than three weeks ago. This is not normal for me as I sometimes go anywhere from 5-8 weeks in between each one. I chose not to take any maca today and my mood has changed dramatically from yesterday. I guess I’m not sure if I should take even a quarter of the dose or just skip out on it altogether. I’d be anxious to know how it goes for you and your decision as to whether or not the benefits outweigh the consequences. I think that it’s important that you are informing others of this as the repercussions of some of these side effects could be potentially dangerous. For myself the depression was just so deep and scary. I think many people tend to overlook a lot of these herbal medicines since they’re easily accessible and a lot of them don’t list the side effects. Thank you!
From the dose you mention in your video, you were taking way too much Maca, regardless what the bottle suggests. If you have a look at some of the websites selling or discussing Maca, several say that too much Maca can have the opposite effect! Most websites recommend starting on 1/4 or even 1/8 of a teaspoon, which is the equivalent of 1 capsule or less, and then increase gradually from there to see where your individual threshold is. You need to give your body a chance on this more sensible dosage. Maca is powerful, and as you mention, very heating according to Chinese medicine. ‘Everything in moderation’ would be an apt adage for Maca. The other thing to consider is if you are taking a good quality organic Maca. Finally, have you done any hormone tests before and after taking Maca?
I started taking Maca a few months ago, for symptoms of estrogen dominance, as a way to help balance out my hormones. I took only about 3/4 teaspoon of the powder (is much cheaper to buy this way than in the capsules) for a couple of days before I noticed I couldn’t sleep at night, had a racing pulse and stomach cramps but had heaps of energy in the daytime. I then read that you should start out with a low dose and not take it every day but have the occasional day off. Since then I have cut back to a 1/4 teaspoon and no longer have any of those side effects except now my periods are very light and not as regular as they were. Can someone tell me why women are only supposed to take it days 1 to 14 of their cycle?
Thanks for all the great information on this product. It is hard to find anything on the net about how it can affect people.
I took it for estrogen domminence..and it made me soo so muh worse. my breast got huge and slarted leaking..pain in endometriosis got worse!
I’ve been taking Femmenessence for 4 days, the full 4 caps/day. I’m pretty disturbed by the multitude of side effects mentioned here, but find it hard to take them all quite seriously, as they are as wildly varied as the supposed benefits. I’m looking for mood balance in the final stages of perimenopause.
I was able to find only one qualified medical site (NYU) that dealt with studies on maca root:http://www.med.nyu.edu/patientcare/library/article.html?ChunkIID=104590. It said there were no serious side effects discovered in human clinical trials. Maybe diarrhea or stomach upset isn’t considered serious. I’m not experiencing any side effects though. Also not experiencing any of the sexual effects its touted to provide, and was surprised to read about that. The NYU study did say Maca was taken for the libido though.
Fran,
I have been doing my research and im so totally confused as to how much maca im supposed to take! I have a bottle of 60 tablets at a 500mg strength. I am taking it to boost fertility, help my skin, boost my libido and help with my energy levels. The bottle said to take 2 3 times a day, is this too much? I have been doing that and im wondering if i actually only need to take say 2 twice a day? Help!! xx
Vicki, it’s best to ask a professional because honestly I have no idea. Ask at the health store, a natural therapist or Chinese Herbalist.
hey vicki
if you want to boost fertility, eat papaya, cucumber and celery every day
max mecca you should take is 4 tablets a day no more then that
1 to 2 tablets gives you energy
2 to 4 tablets gives you both energy and stamina
Wow… I’ve been taking maca for a month or two and haven’t noticed any side effects. I see many of the respondants are using capsules. Are there any additives in the capsules? I’ve been using the raw organic powder and mixing it with juice in the morning. The dosage is 1 teaspoon which I pretty much stick to. I don’t take it religiously – some days I forget. The benefits I’ve noticed are increased energy, both physical and mental and better skin tone.
I take barely 1 tsp powder form not capsules,
b group of vitamins is great for acne , stress and depression.
I also wonder if high oestrogen levels cause the symptoms you have stated. I personally believe there is something in this.
I am going to start taking Maca per “Q”. After reading all posts, it seems to be the most reliable.
I will keep you advised to how it reacts with me.
FYI. I am 60 years old female and definitely menopausal. It will be interesting to see if it will get me motivated to exercise. Stay tuned.
I could not find the whole powder, but am taking extract 300 mg tabs.. it states to take 1 with each meal 3 x day with glass of water. I may just take 1 the first day and build up … the ingredients are 300 mg root extract and maca root 25 mg. no other ingredients as promised on the label. not sure if I can same name brands here so will leave that out. any input anyone?
if you feel off, or sick when you take it , its because your body is detoxing the rubbish you may be eating like highly processed foods and rubbish. your diet needs to be high in green veg and friuts and grains, (not white processed wheats)
the maca helps your sysyem to balance out, but you need to eat like you are a native, but no meat or a llittle, salmon and fish (unbattered).
i am hypo thyroid too and had eliminated wheat and gluten 5 years ago. now i have taken to an almost raw diet with fresh greens, fruits, fish . been taking maca for a little while and it feels like my brain has woken up from all the fog my brain deals with from low thyroid function. so
i found the ultimate answer to the fountain of energy and youth as i feel younger too. i am 42.
oh its best to use the powder, and you can get it with the raw cocoa powder to or add it seperately. put it in muesli, drink it like a hot drink but paste it up 1st so it dissolves evenly, do not use overly boiling water either as it may scold the powder. i take 1 teaspoon in the morning as a warm hot drink, with a little honey- tastes malty nutty, nice with the raw cocoa. put it in bannan smoothie withot dairy products, ( cows milk is for cows, not for humans- think about it) you will feel better too.
if u really feel like crap you will make the effort to change what you consume in your bodies.
remember…side effects are usually signs your boy is eliminating wastes it dont need, its gotta come out some how….right?
remember…side effects are usually signs your body( not boy) is eliminating wastes it dont need, its gotta come out some how….right?
seems the edit tool does not work
The first time I took Maca I felt a significant increase in sexual desire, more energy and a stronger feeling of well-being in general.
We have a plastic container of Maca which came with a small plastic scooper.
I use 1 scoop with a glass of water and mix it. It does not taste good but I recognize the health benefits of drinking it so I ignore the taste.
It actually does have a bit of a soil-like taste to it.
I’ve had some the past 2 mornings and I feel very good.
I have absolutely nothing negative to say about it.
Cheers,
Jeremy
I started taking organic Maca Gold 3 days ago. I haven’t had any of the bad reactions as mentioned above. Mind you when I take the tablets I have either been eating fruit or vegetables.
Maybe you need to take them with healthy food to get the full benefits.My energy level has improved which is good.
I also breastfeed and was advised that maca can increase my milk supply which is a bonus. I take 4 capsules a day two with breakfast and two and dinner time.
You cannot have an overdose with Maca root, its a whole food! It would be like eating too many potatoes. My husband and I both take it and it has really helped both of us in many ways! Maybe all these people aren’t eating right or doing something else that might be interfering with their hormones! I highly doubt the Maca is responsible for these unlikely side effects.
I started on Femmenessence on the full dose of 4 x 500mg caps a day too and my symptoms got worse however after speaking to the company which has really good customer service I went down to 2 caps a day and my symptoms have gone! I don’t know about other maca products but Natural Health International uses particular types of maca just for women in their product which seems different to other products.
Hey everyone, I get my Maca from http://www.therootofthematter.ca and it is the best. Also for people that take maca and problems with their intestinals, it is because of the fiber and starch in the maca, you might want to try gelatinized it doesn’t have starch in it and is easier to digest. I take it 5 times a week and 2 days off. The website explains in good detail about Maca and the effects of it.
@ Amanda
What brand do you use??
If you think about it. Those ancient people ate it like everyday and they did not have any problems. Maybe we just take them in the wrong way. Like not cooking it of.. eating it with something else.
Like grains. You have to soak it before you can digest. Or Cod Live Oil. You have to take saturated fats in order for you body to absorb it..
I dont believe its the maca that is the problem.. but the how..
I have real low libido, my periods are very irregular and my energy level is low.. sadly.
If anyone can help me out! Please do..
Gettin really tired of it hahah!
I had started to take Maca some months ago, when I discovered it on the net, I suffer from CFS(ME) and FM plus peri-menopause. I started of with 1/4 tsp mixed with juice. (I bought the organic powder form). Tastes disgusting and would often gag. But persisted. I found after a couple of weeks that I had heaps of energy. I had been sick for 6 years and was no longer requiring afternoon sleeps and had the energy to exercise daily. Which helped me shed 14 kilos. I was back to my old self again, cooking, cleaning, working, happier, and yes increased libido…
I had increased dosage to 1 tsp daily.
After trying a new product through Neways, I gave Maca away due to the bad taste. This has been over 7 weeks ago, I am tired again, and havent been able to cook up a storm. So I have decided to go back on it again. will start of 1/4 tsp again. after reading your responses I will “go slowly”. And perhaps have a break as suggested. But I do reconmend it for CFS sufferers as it helped me tremendously.
Hi, I just ordered Maca Magic in pill form. They say to take 2 capsules daily at 500 mg. After reading all these comments, I am totally freaked out. I’ve heard such great things about Maca. I just wonder if even taking 2 pills is too much? Maybe one a day?
Katy, I think we are all individuals and taking Maca perhaps for a whole host of different reasons. I feel the ‘go slowly’ would be good advice and perhaps keep a journal daily making comments about how you feel and what changes could be happening. Perhaps start of one capsule then increase it to the 2. I saw one brand reconmend up to 5 capsules daily i thought that was steep. try it, I mean its not going to kill us is it?
Maca is for Male sexual health, although Women can take it too. If you don’t overdose, and if you don’t take for long periods (greater than 3 months) then in my opinion it is beneficial. By the way Maca is widely used as food in South American diets. Nevertheless, it is true that too much of a good thing can be bad, so moderation is the key here.
I took Maca for a week and got so sick ! Symptoms were just like food poisoning. The first few days I took it I experienced stomach cramps and then after a week I got really sick.
I am in very good health and rarely get sick. I really think it’s the Maca that got me sick. I am sorry about this and maybe will try it again but am not sure.
I am the CEO of Natural Health International that manufactures Femmenessence which a few of you have mentioned on a positive note which I thank you for. In relation to maca I would just like to offer some insights for the rest of you. Firstly there are 13 different sub species of maca which can elicit different effects on the body. We have one product for men and three different ones for women based on their stage of life. It is important to make sure you are taking the right product for your stage of life and sex. Yes we occasionally see in 0.5% of patients diarrhea and/or gas however not nausea. This process of diarrhea and gas is often the body purging and only lasts for 2-4 days. In relation to cysts, endometriosis and estrogen dominance it is critical that you work with a practitioner on a protocol looking at removing exogenous estrogens as well as hormone balance, it is all about timing and also your individual health. The suggestion of go slow is a also a good one as each women and man is different so using the right dosage for you and your health condition is key. Also as I mentioned the different types of maca are also critical. If you want to talk to a practitioner feel free to speak to one of our medical team toll free on 888 668 3661 or email medical.team@naturalhi.com
I’ve been on Maca powder for several years now without a single problem. I breezed through menopause at 55 years of age without a symptom. I didn’t even know I was going through menopause even though my four sisters had all sorts of problems (they refused to take Maca) I look much younger, have incredible skin and and my energy and strength levels are simply amazing. But everyone insists it’s because of my genes which I know is definately not true. I take one tablespoon a day and have never had a break in the 15 odd years I’ve been taking it. So all of you women out there it is certainly worth a try. It changed my health and my life forever. Goodluck!
I have thought of increasing my dose to 1tablespoon but have been afraid to. I know maca works but I have been a bit nervous. I want to know why you can’t have licorice root when consuming maca. On my packaging it warns not to take when pregnant or lactating as well. Also, expensive. I pay $60 AU for 300grams. Has anyone heard of Black Maca?
I started taking maca powder 2 weeks ago. Initially I took a lot – 2 tablespoons per day as the package recommends 1-8 tsp per day to begin with(!) , but now I’m on 2tsp per day. Reading this blog has made me realise why my breasts are painfully swollen. I startd taking it to reduce a uterine fibroid which usually shrinks immediately after menstruation but that has not happened this time round. I am going to be more cautious with maca.
I started taking maca after a miscarriage to help balance my hormones. It has helped my cycles get back to normal. However, I just switched to a new brand and began to have severe heartburn and stomach cramping. It’s taken me weeks to figure out that maca may be causing it. I’m taking some time off and may start back on a lower dose.
I have used Navitas Raw maca Powder 0n/ off for 2 yrs. When i do, I take 2-3 TBSP daily in smoothies, no dairy, i use Hemp Protein with lots of fruit, stevia for sweetener, maybe Rice milk sometimes (allergic to Almonds or I’d make Raw Almond Milk – Alkalizing) I have not had these reactions. I actually feel more energy. I dislike the taste in plain water. I tolerate in a fruit smoothie. Actually my stomach does tolerate it better with smoothie vs alone with water.
i was taking maca in tablet form for some time then i ran out and havent took any in a while but while i was on it i was very happy and energetic and was feeling like a new person but now that i havent had it in a while i feel like crap i am depressed and lazy and dont feel like getting out of bed so i am totally for taking it i will get back on it in time but the herb shop has ran out of it so i hope they will get it back very soon
Hi all,
I’ve just been reading the comments here on Maca and your experience with it. As with everything we consume one person may react differently than another. However, my husband and I are taking Maca at present and while my husband had a day of migraine type symptoms with upset belly, massive headache etc I have been fine. I think Maca is a powerful herb that is perhaps generating a healing response in the people that are experiencing symptoms from it. For those with fairly toxic bodies, this is quite likely I would say. My husband and I eat quite different diets – he eats a lot of bread and whatever, drinks coffee by the gallon where I fast every now and then and eat a fairly clean diet for the most part (very little processed food in comparison to most). My husband is back on the Maca now and has no problems at this point. If it were me I’d reduce the dosage for a while. Also, my Mum’s been taking it for about 18 months now and it’s done great things for her! We take an amazing product containing Maca and another anti aging ingredient. Hope that helps.
What is this product?
Hi everyone,
I have just ordered this powder due to chronic tiredness, and thinking it msy be hormone related. However, I’ve started to read on some websites that it is to be avoided if there is a history of breast cancer in the family. Anyonr have any advice on this ?
thanks
Jackie
In response to CEO James…I have been taking Femmenessence MacaHarmony
(this is the right product for my stage in life) for a few days and have had diarrhea and stomach cramps from the onset. My intuition tells me this occurs in much more than “.5%” of patients. I am a yoga instructor who rarely gets sick and I eat very healthy so it seems odd by body would be purging foods like leafy greens and vegetables. I would recommend putting on the box to start with 1 tablet a day and not up to 4. The respectable place I bought it from said to only use 1 tablet a day – interesting she told me not to use the dosage on the box.
Give me a break…Maca does not contain any vegetable hormone. Therefore it is simply not possible to take too much of it (overdose). Many Peruvians of all ages eat maca powder as often as 3 times daily (the science presented in the above article is…”Be careful with maca- I read a forum posting on the net today, and my herbalist confirmed it”
Maca is an intensifier and rejuvenator and stimulates the endocrine system in the human body. It stimulates the human body to produce it’s own natural hormones, in the correct quantity and the correct proportions.
Maca therapy is recommended over hormone replacement therapy because HRT ages the body, decreasing the natural production of hormones. If you are taking hormones artificially, such as by taking medicine or food with vegetable hormones, this will effect the glands that normally produce this hormone in a natural way. In contrast with soy products, black cocoa, liquorice beetroot, wild yam and other products that contain hormone-like ingredients, Maca does not contain any vegetable hormone. Therefore it is simply not possible to take too much of it (overdose). Maca starts at the cause of the problem and does not only fight the symptoms.
hi, i take maca for 5 days (2,5g). I suffer of arthritis and crohn and my simptomes already reduced a lot (anckle pain and diarrhea) but my headache getting worse. Can it be because the body is balancing and cleaning?
hi again. just to tell my headache stopped yesterday and i feel really good. 7/10 in comparison 3/10 before maca
Please email me if you can. I would like to talk to you about maca root.
I’ve been going through peri menopause for years, had a hysterectomy 15 years ago but they left one ovary so I wouldn’t have to take hormones.
So many questions for you.
Nascar-girl38@hotmail.com
Hi,
I was taking the raw maca powder for 2 weeks before I became really sick… Diarhea, bloating, bad stomach cramping, especially after eating anything! Can someone please respond to me that has experienced this same problem. And if you saw a doctor for it or what you did to feel “normal” again. I am unsure of what to do. I don’t know if I should go to the doctor because they most likely won’t even know what maca is! I’ve been off the maca for 3 days and been taking pepto bismol. It’s not working. I’ve been sick now for over a week. i didn’t know what was causing it right away until I found this site. Please any help would be great, thanks.
Hi Desiree, I can completely relate. I was off maca for a week before I started feeling better and cancelled my doctors appointment at that point. I did the whole pepto bismol thing too. I would hang in there and drink plenty of water to replace the lost fluids. Maca is not for everyone…as ayurveda health system says one thing is not good for everyone. There are some natural ayurvedic remedies you can find online for diarrhea, etc. When I returned the maca product to Mothers Market they said someone had returned the same product complaining of the same symptons. You may still want to go to your doctors. Good luck.
I am very interested in Maca and how it balances hormones. I just wanted to let the ladies with the fibroids to know about Dr Wong and his sytemic enzymes that eat the fibrin. He also lectures on Maca and other products.
Thanks Molly! I was about to go to the doctor yesterday, but I actually have been doing better since I stopped taking the pepto. I really want to continue with maca in a lower dose (although I was only taking 2 tsp), but I am nervous that this will happen again. Well, Thanks again for your response!
I really think each person’s weight and body chemistry has a large impact on the results they obtain from the supplement. Consider that a 100 lb person would most likely require a smaller dosage than a 150 lb person, and the differences might also vary between men and women.
hey fran. Im 16 years old and i believe that i have unbalanced hormones….do you think i should take maca root capsules???
Whole World Botanicals offers certified organic maca root powder in gel caps prepared by proprietary method. Always buy certified organic and gelatinized (sun dried with low starch for ease of digestion)…Whole World Botanicals’ states that indigenous people don’t eat their maca raw…I’m wondering if that might be why some posters have experienced digestive distress.
I take for hormone balance…huge difference, love it.
I took maca extract for 1 week…i developed a rash down the middle of my back and shoulders so I stopped. I immediately began bleeding like a light period (which wasn’t due for 2 wks) and by the 3rd day post maca, I was GUSHING blood and passing golf ball size clots every 15 min.! I had to go to ER where – of course they don’t know what Maca is – they administered estrogen and then birth control pills. Now, 2 mo. later, I have not had a normal period and I’m not pregnant. I’m only 35 and having menopause-like symptoms when I had normal periods before. Anyone heard of something like this happening?
Hi ,
I recommend to use an organic maca powder. I’ve been using the maca powder from hidalgofoods.com for 1 1/2 years now. And i have no plan to stop using maca powder. For better results you can use the maca powder on your daily menus. Where you can enjoy your maca with no problem.
well i don’t use maca capsules. This might contain any other chemicals that cause bad side effect.
Thanks everyone for your suggestions and help! I have tried both the organic powder and gelatinized capsules. I get a really bad upset stomach when I am on both and had to quit. I am really upset that this did not work for me and have wasted money! I really wanted it to work for me, but something is not allowing that to happen!!
I’ve been taking it for a month and I’m having to come off it (since yesterday) because I’m having severe stomach cramps. Does anyone know how long it takes for these to go away? It’s been approximately 30 hours since I last took it and these cramps are worse. The cramps don’t include vomiting or diahorrea so far thank God.
I have been taking a multivitamin which also contains Maca (as a female herbal blend), for a couple of weeks now. I really like it because I have more energy, I feel focused and my libido has increased. I was a little moody at first, but I feel great now. I am 44 and going through menopause. I am not sure if they have helped with my hot flashes, but I think so. I haven’t had any recently……
[...] & Yerba Mate Health Benefits maca root Lepidium meyenii – Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia What Nobody Tells You About Maca Root Powder – Dangers And Side Effects — High on health gotu kola extract InteliHealth: guarna extract Guarana At least two of the ingredients contain [...]
Thank you so much for this information. I’m researching the meca root and yours in one of the few articles that tells both sides. Roots, herbs and vitamins: “natural cures” are not something to randomly take.
A little knowledge is a dangerous thing. I appreciate you educating us on the positive as well as the negative of this herb.
With Gratitude,
Gwen
While taking Maca for many months, I have noticed many benefits, to include increased energy, short term memory improvement, alertness, reduction of greying hair (odd?), and reduction of acne. However, the people above having adverse reactions would do well to ignore the brand names, use sensible dosing, and above all, research the source and processor, as you should with many herbs (as you would anything you eat). The symptoms mentioned resemble reactions to toxins probably introduced during harvesting and processing from unsanitary conditions (widespread in Peru particularly).
-BHG
Hi Fran,
Thank you for the update. Congratulations on finding what works for you.
Warmly,
Gwen
BHG, so do you think that it is better for the maca to eat cooked? As i love cooking and i used maca in my recipe do you think it is safe for the whole family?
Maca, acai and other trendy superfoods have their place but it is unquestionably, in a mixed diet which includes around 10 times the number of different foods (and probably about half the quantity) most of us eat in a year.
I add over 2 dozen foods I would not otherwise eat by including Kakadu Juice in my daily diet. An ounce two to three times a day gives me lots of energy, boosts my immune system and enhances my mental processes significantly while the evidence suggests, also controls psa (prostate specific antigen) levels, lowers the glucose response from meals, reduces inflammation in various tissues and joints and a whole lot more. I know that it has allowed me to abandon my allopurinal medication for gout and I haven’t had an attack for years.
There’s a booklet available on the kakadu Juice website called Super Foods for Super Health which explains the science and is well worth a read but just try some of the Juice and see for yourself.
Hi everyone. I just got the organic Maca powder 2 days ago and after taking two doses devoloped itchy rash on my face and neck. Has anyone had this? I really want to continue taking this herb for hormonal imbalance, but affraid of symptoms getting worse. Any feedback is appreciated. Thanks.
I suggest you stop taking it right away…I don’t know if you read my previous post, but I too developed an itchy rash after 1 wk of use followed by MASSIVE bleeding w/ huge clots (required a trip to ER). Everyone is different and I suppose that’s the way my body reacts to Maca.
Reading through each response …….
I am almost convinced its all about the many available but different MACA BRANDS QUALITY PROCESSING & PACKAGING.
There are far too many BRANDS jumping on this money making natural superfood wagon. Like all good products there are another thousand claiming to be the same and the consumer has no idea, as they are all marketed cleverly with the same name and health benefits.
BE CAREFUL WITH WHAT YOU ARE PUTTING INTO YOUR BODY. You wouldn’t buy cheap blended inferior petrol to put into your car because it can wreck the engine.
I personally would like to see responses with brand named products so others don’t suffer the same outcome. BLACK LIST the sham brand products or else they will continue to profit with your money after you have suffered and tossed it in the bin.
Post #62 … JUSTINE 55y who has taken it for 15 years PLEASE PLEASE tell us all the BRAND NAME of your Maca.
I am 55y Menopausal suffering depilating chronic hormone imbalances etc and have just started to take recommended 1/4 teaspoon twice day with meals *MACA GOLD powder Organic Certification by SKAL no additives no soy no blended species. Contains certified genuine Lepidium peruvianum Chacon super strength premium organic Maca root powder.
http://healthyfoodshop.com/shop/cat202_1.htm
Has any one else tried this BRAND ? or have I compromised my health and waisted my money. I live in Australia and purchased from Health food shop @ 300g $46.20.
keep you posted !
Is Maca good if you have underactive thyroid (hypothyroid) I have got the organic powder form and havent yet taken it.
I tried the maca powder, it only cost you 12.99 per pounds.
Here in Australia there are warning labels on the quality brands of Maca advising caution for for pregnant,menopausal or people with stomach ailments.
Its also recommend taking anytime before lunch when your stomach is most active upon waking.
I love adding it to my oats(after heating) in the morning and Ive had no problems for at least 5 years that Ive been taking it. 1 teaspoon is more than enough to gain the benefits.
People should also realize that Maca(powder) should be taken with food and not on empty stomachs. Ive heard reports of people who do have reactions to the tablet forms but not because of the maca itself but from the capsule encasing when it dissolves in the stomach.(once again source only quality brands) it can also be aggrevated if your stomachs bacteria is inbalance. its why its recommend to be take with food rather than just with water. Go the powder pop it in a smoothie or on your oats and its all good. Oh I thoroughly recommend the brand Macagold
I used MACA powder in green smoothies and for a little while it seemed okay. Then I started putting in more powder (the tin says 1 to 5 teaspoons) so I put in 2 teaspoons and vomited at work twice in one week (very inconvenient place to be sick!!!). So I may try it again but will definitely stick with a flat teaspoon and will only try it when I’m home. The brand I’m using is by Loving Earth and is certified organic.
Started MacaSure 6 days ago and take 3@750mg/capsule
no adverse symptoms…so far only increased energy…I am looking forward to the changes in hormone balance…
My bottle states Certified Organic Maca Root Extract Pure Gelatinized. $39.99
Maca is a root vegetable! It’s a member of the radish family. I think the issues folks are having with it, is when they take a “Blend” suppliment that is mixed with a filler or something other than true maca root. I have had no issues with this root powder!
I have been taking Maca Magic Capsules (1) 2x a day for 2 weeks now and have noticed a huge increase in my energy level, so far I have had no ill side effects.
Today I just began to take Ruth’s Orgnic Hemp Protein with Macha and flaxseed. This is a raw powder that you can mix in with smoothies, etc. I put the recommended 2 scoops (comes with it) into 2 cups of unsweetened almond milk. Not too bad, kinda nutty flavor. I will let you all know if it gives me energy; it claims to have 5000 mg maca per serving.
I’m 52 and began taking Maca yesterday to reduce menopausal symptoms (severe fatigue, chronic aching joints and muscles) and within a couple of hours began to feel relief. 24 hours later, I feel like a new person – joint and muscle pain is completely gone and my mood and energy level is much improved. I’m taking the liquid form and adding 40 drops to my orange juice 3 times a day. The brand I’m using is Maca Magic, and the product is Maca Magic HRT, http://www.macamagic.com. I’ve only used this product a day, but I haven’t felt this good in 5 years! This product was recommended to me by our local herbalist – she said she’d recently lost 2 pant sizes using it – weight she’d gained and kept on after having her last child (who is now two).
is there an information that MACA powder may have any of the side effects that the Chinese herb ( ma wang sp? ) has such as increased BP, stroke, heart attack etc. Is taking 1 teaspoon aday a safe dose?
My MACA update.
I have now changed Maca products to
*Femmenessence MacaPause.
55yo severe Menopause/ Stress hormone imbalances.
Now in my 2nd week after lots of exhausting research and inquiry believe this Maca product to be a hopeful winner for myself and family.
My progress so far with a little improved energy, a little clearer calmer thinking.
Started my 80yr old active Mum on it also with no improvements to date.
Starting 80yr old Dad on Macalibium as soon as it arrives.
Not available yet in Australia (available 2010) passing TGA approval.
Purchase atm through NZ NHI distributor has proven difficult with long delays and sadly little customer product support and service.
NHI does have a very informative Web site http://www.naturalhi.com/ however little support staff at present, so lets hope it lives up to all its extensive clinically proven lab data.
CEO is attempting to rectify the problems and changing its NZ distributors atm.
Anyone elce tried NHI Femmenessence
*MacaPause ( Women Menopause ) *Macalibrium ( Men )
They have told me its being happily used with great sucess by many Australian customers ???
I too use Maca Magic, 1 teaspoon every day in a smoothie. I’ve been using it for about 2 weeks now and feel awesome! The powder is way better for you than pill supplements. If you are considering it, do it.
I have to wonder about the people here who are having adverse reactions and blaming it on Maca. Possible other changes in their lives or other supplementation they have recently added to their diet???
I time, too. I bought a hemp protein powder supplement to enhance my workouts and it has maca and acai. I love it and have had absolutely no ill effects — just the muscle I was looking for and a protein supplement since I am strict vegetarian. The acai and maca have given me strength, endurance and clearer mind. I, too, think it is something else in their lives.
I am a 40 yr old female and began taking Maca (Lepidium Meyenii) in capsule form in which I had purchased from StarWestBotanicals.com. I suspect the quality is not so good as I bought it in bulk (500 veggie caps) and think I only paid 40 bucks or so. I am not really certain that one sub-species could really be that different from another, or the effects of processing change the re-action so drastically. I mean common, Ginger root is Ginger root and Garlic is Garlic. It still has the same make-up no matter how it is processed right? Anyway, I purchased it raw.
I am completely confounded at the different symptoms indicated in these posts! Especially by ranchgirl who took a trip to ER. I never had any stomach cramping, nausea, head-aches, etc. although now that I think back may have had insomnia and a little anxiety along with my major adverse side effect in which I will share with you. But firstly I must say, I really liked the Maca primarily because of the “good energy” it provided. I felt a great natural buzz on it that really made me feel wonderful. Ok, now the bad part. I began having a my menstral cycle early every 3-weeks or so and I have NEVER had an irregular period. I am like clock-work ever 28 days. I have NEVER taken a supplement that AFFECTED ME IN SUCH A POWERFULL WAY so you can imagine my first response was I had no idea what was going on. I thought perhaps I had a cist that was causing me to bleed eccessively since my periods were heavy and now more frequent. I can appreciate the idea of the body detoxing and balancing, and trust me, I have experienced detox symptoms before and this was not detoxification. I have a difficult time understanding how my body would come into balance taking this supplement since it was completely throwing me out of balance and screwing up my cycle to no end. At first I assumed it was stress that was causing the problem, but now I realize it was the Maca. I suppose it makes sense that it would be appropriate for women who are going through menopause and am sad that I cannot experience the great energy for fear that I may bleed to death!! I suspect it takes some time to completely re-cover from the symtoms of Maca root as well as it took me a couple of months to get back into my normal cycle which is healthy for a female. Anyway, any one out there have any thoughts??
…I was taking a couple of 500 mg capsules twice per day. I was not completely regular with that but did try to be consistant for around 2 months or so. This was several months ago and the reason I found and read every single post in this string is because I was considering taking it again. Now, I am fearfull and may never take it again.
I take Health Force’s MacaForce which has mostly Maca but a few other ingredients. I have not had any problems, all positive results. They have it in two flavors, vanilla spice and peppermint. I mix my vanilla spice with almond milk and a tablespoon of raw organic Cacao or i throw it in a smoothie. I vary my dose but usually a tablespoon or two a day (seperated.) Keep in mind that it isn’t 100% maca so the dose isn’t as high.
Hi Fran,
do you still use Maca and what about Maca root powder, which is what I use for smoothies. I like to use organic root powder and was putting about a tablespoon in my smoothies. I haven’t noticed anything yet, but am wondering if it’s different than the capsules.
Let me know! Thanks.
I started using Femmenessence MacaHarmony after my doctor recommended it instead of birth control. I had not had a period in 18 months. 2 weeks later I had my first period and have had 3 since regularly. My energy and mood has significantly changed also. I did notice a little stomach upset but my doctor told me to start taking it with meals instead of away from food and this made all the difference.
Rather than listen to some of the scaremongers posting on here, do yourself a favour and go to this site, it simply confirms an awful lot of what the author is saying and adds some additional and very important information:
http://www.healthline.com/natstandardcontent/maca-1?brand=
…Then come back here and read the posts.
As someone who has a healthy diet and takes supplements (after treating my body like garbage for years until it finally told me to stop in no uncertain terms) I am going to make a sweeping generalization: If you have stomach problems on maca -at first- it’s because you either eat garbage (i.e. a diet heavy in the ‘white food group’ aka refined processed foods, you don’t exercise, and you’re obese through excessive eating, in which case DO NOT TAKE THIS SUPPLEMENT, it’s a heart attack waiting to happen!), or your simply taking too much too fast. Any health professional worth their salt will tell you that any dietary supplement from Vitamin C to Splenda has an initial ‘bowel tolerance’. There is also the subject of sensitivity; a dose that works for one person may be completely overboard for another -again, back off and take it slow, find your limit. Take too much and you will get the ‘Pepto Effect’ amny people on here have complained about. It’s not the maca, it’s your body telling you it’s too much too fast, it’s a shock and it’s letting you know. Listen to it. Maca is also related to brussel sprouts; you try mega-dosing without giving your body time to adjust on those and see what happens to your little flatulence and diarrhea problem…’nuff said?
On a serious note, I’d be interested to find out with some of the people who experienced rashes if they aren’t allergic to one or two things and they were having a rather severe reaction either to maca as a vegetable, impurities or cutting agents (this is an unregulated industry in North America, they can put anything in a cap and call it whatever they like, but that’s another story) or to the gelatin used in the caps themselves which sometimes contain soy, which is in the top five of allergenic substances in North America, or more likely, mold from an ineffective drying and storing process. Love Peru, love Peruvians, but they really ain’t that picky when it comes to modern hygiene standards a couple of thousand feet up and permanently high on coca leaves earning less everyday than you paid for the slurpy your drinking while you read this.
Contra-indications (according to the above medical site) also include women with fibroids, high blood pressure, women on birth control, blood clotting problems, men with prostate cancer and those who have an allergy to the brasica family of vegetables that maca belongs to (turnips, radishes, cabbage, mustard (who knew?!) etc.)
This is a powerful substance that can have a profound effect on your hormones and pituitary function as well as thinning your blood. If you experience severe reproductive problems it may be the maca triggering your body/condition telling you that there is an underlying medical problem that you have unknowingly exacerbated.
Personally, I take it for depression and anxiety following an IED explosion. It knocks the socks off of the convulsions, brain shocks, erectile dysfunction, anorgasmia and constant fatigue that my doctor only told me about AFTER I had started taking them were just “par for the course” while taking SRIs. Not to mention the two months of hell I went through going through withdrawal which, again, nobody told me about before I went on them and made smoking, amphetamine, and alcohol withdrawal look like a walk in the park -sugar withdrawal was worse believe it or not!
Dietary supplements with any kind of stimulant effect are still a drug in some way or form and to think that they won’t have some kind of side-effect, even just temporary, is naive. I’m not saying this to be mean, I’m saying this because I have been there too and I don’t want people to make the same mistake: With any drug it is vital that you research it properly and thoroughly and make an educated decision about it before taking it -and this includes Googleing whatever it is and including the words “withdrawal”, “side-effects”, and “contraindications” in your search . It is not a case of “nobody told me!” it’s a case of “I didn’t bother researching the reams of information publicly available from health professionals and make an educated decision based on that”. You’re a grown-up, nobody is here to hold your hand and we all make mistakes sometimes, that’s life. Just don’t externalize your blame on a badly informed decision YOU made. Oh, and be very wary of what you read on bulletin boards from angry people who think that a headache and an achy stomach is the end of the world, otherwise you won’t do anything in life. Just my opinion and my experience, take it or leave it, but I’d prefer you learn from it. There are no magic bullets in this world. In combination with a totally revamped healthy diet, exercise, going on the wagon, quitting smoking, and decent councilling I have been able to make huge strides towards becoming the productive, creative and loving person that both a bomb and SRIs robbed me of.
Neem is the best for acne…!
Any adaptogen or any detoxing / balancing herb will cause the skin to break out. Fo-ti is excellence TCM
Baking soda paste facial scrub will clear up acne.
Your kidneys may need to be detoxed which could cause the acne as well.
Well, Enough said.
I started taking maca pills yesterday. I take one 500 mg pill in the morning. One yesterday and one today. Both days I have got tired and exhausted around supper time – ready for bed basically. I thought it was supposed to give you energy, not take it away? Other than the tiredness, I haven’t noticed anything else from taking the pills.
Is this normal? What should I do?
I am 29y and have infrequent periods as I have had since I was a child. I have slightly high testosterone levels so I was on birth control for years but I really dont like taking it and would like to eventually have a child. Does anyone know if taking maca will help with this? I have read so much about it regulating hormones, just wanted to know if anyone has a similar situation and have tried maca root.
Kristy it sounds like you might have PCOS. I know several people who have used a concentrated maca based product called Femmenessence MacaHarmony for this instead of you taking birth control. One person I know hadnt had a period in 10 months had one within 3 weeks and has had regular period ever since.
Maca root works great for me and i take 2 tablesoons a day, not teaspoons. i believe it depends on weight and sensitivity, and the body’s need for it.
side effects occurring with any nutritional supplement means you need to do a body cleanse prior, taper off a bit till they subside. your body wants to get rid of what’s accumulated in your tissues, cells,colon etc.
I now use it as a staple in my own diet. taking one week off after three weeks use. I take it for a chronic illness that can be debilitating, maca is an excellent bone mineralizer, and anti-inflammatory as well as the obvious mentioned benefits.
Laura, I have noticed the same thing, getting tired around dinner. I’m absolutely exhausted by dinner. Started taking Macasure two weeks ago and yesterday I skipped it and had more energy. Apparently women are supposed to just take it a few weeks out of the month. Will write more when I find it again in the book I’m reading about Maca.
I am on Ortho tri cyclen and have cystic acne (24 yrs old and have acne for about 4 years). I have it at all times of the month. I was purchased Maca today. It is 525 mg per capsule and recommends taking it 3 times per day. I would like to know everyones opinion. Is this too much per capsule. I wasn’t planning on taking the whole dosage just once per day (at least at first). Also are you supposed to take it only during your period or everyday? I need to find something that helps. I read primrose oil helps acne too. I just want something that won’t mess my body up. Thanks!
3 MONTHS NOW taking Femenessence *MacaPause still waiting for any improvements.
I understand body Hormone imbalances, exhausted Adrenal glands, Thyrohyoid, blood sugar levels, can all take a very very long time to recover, rebalance and harmonize during a woman’s Menopause.
So no instant magic pills, praying only time will tell and heal, combined with other healthy supportive supplements, lifestyle changes and exercise.
NOBODY !!! ever tells you or prepares you for your life, bodies dramatic depilating changes and battles you could be in store for after 50.
NOTHING or NO ONE should ever be generalised, we are all so very individual as we respond to our life and our current upbringing.
Dear Dezigner,
That is very unusual with Femmenessence. However we do have one case where it took 4 months and then they had significant improvements.
Can I suggest calling our toll free number 888 668 3661 and speaking with one of our doctors in person tomorrow to maybe help you with some additional advice.
Regards,
James Frame
CEO
Natural Health International
I have tried taking maca a couple of times before. I always felt that it was overstimulating to me and I really was only taking 500mg a couple times a day.
I decided to try again. For a couple days took 500mg in the morning and then 500mg in the afternoon. Had a night were I felt too hot and really light sleep. Took the weekend off. Yesterday I took the same, and felt ok but at times a little anxious and spacey. I read on another post someone mention they felt these feelings taking less, and felt calmer taking more. So what the heck?? I took 1 teaspoon 2 times today, and felt awesome. that is about 4x as much as yesterday, yet I felt so much better. Energetic yet relaxed, better thinking and better response to stressful situations.
I am excited that it seems to be working well for me at this dose, yet puzzled why the larger amount seems to have none of the negative things that seemed to accompany the lower dose.
Thanks for the great info everyone is sharing here. I will try to check back in another week or so to post how things are going.
i start taking it 6 months ago for a month because i dodnt had any periods. i noticed an increase in my weight but i thought it was due to maybe eating more. i got my period after a month on 1600mg per day and then stopped as it was making me feel really bloated and putting on weight. I got my period again next month with out it.but it is 4 months that i didnt get it. I am eating a lot better than before and more and dont seem to increase my weight. I start taking it yesterday and the syptoms are a hell. I have headaches , i am feeling like on a trip, like my mind is not clear, i got bloated immediately, really tired,dizzy, i can not walk as my legs hurt probably due to water retention and it seems that it decreased my appetise as before i was constantly hungry. Yesterday i ate almost nothing as i wasnt hungry but i am 2 kilos up. should i stop taking it or give it a few days?
I was in a terrible depression fog when I came upon the information regarding maca. I’d actually been researching my symptoms when I found it. I was diagnosed with hypothyroidism many years ago but haven’t been taking the synthroid for these many years. I bought Whole World Botanicals Royal Maca and Royal Camu, both of which I am only taking 1/3rd of a teaspoon daily.
Within hours of the first dose, my fog lifted and I felt better. I’m still run down but am feeling better overall. I’m sure it took time for me to get to that poor state and will take me time to come back from it.
I will also keep posted.
thanxs for ur posting im in the same boat and just heard of Maca let me no how u r..
I am a long-time maca grower and eater.
Maca is not meant to be eaten raw. It is always to be cooked. Raw maca is very difficult to digest – no wonder people are having intestinal distress and other problems! I am rather annoyed with much of the negligent “health food” marketing in the USA for this plant/food, as it can be very beneficial when cooked and eaten as a food, as it is supposed to be. Companies selling products in the USA (and worldwide) pay no attention to proper preparation, or the the Peruvian “traditional use.” Many companies simply put raw maca in capsules and sell it as a therapeutic dose, when you would have to ingest practically 1/2 the bottle. It’s ridiculous. Or, they extract the alkaloids, thereby ignoring/negating the rich nutritional synergy of the food itself. It’s really a shame.
If you’re going to use maca, cook with the flour Add it to cookies, breads, even brownies. If you are making nutritional shakes, then use gelatinized maca (this product is designed for that purpose). I recommend black root maca (strongest nutrient proflie). Most of these problems are being caused by improper use of maca.
Of course, some herbs don’t vibe with some people – but using the herb correctly helps immensely.
Timothy,
I agree with the cooking idea since that is what I found from searching for the traditional method of eating maca.
Any idea on where to find the maca ‘flour’? I only see powder and capsules in searching online in the U.S. How does the strength of the flour compare to the strength of the powder or capsules? So we can know how much flour to eat each day. Can anyone grow the maca root or is it just in the high altitudes?
Any information you can provide on the cooking and obtaining the actual root or flour would be helpful.
Thanks!
Elisa,
What US companies are calling “maca powder” is actually what is called in Peru “maca flour” (harina de maca). They are one and the same. In Peru, maca flour is $2 a LB, or even less. It is a relatively inexpensive commodity. In the USA it is far more expensive- as such, “health food” companies routinely have profit margins that are 5-6x what they pay for the product (and it is no wonder they pay no mind to how it’s supposed to be used).
I have gotten good maca flour from Amazon Discovery (dot com) but you have to specify, via e-mail that you want the -unsterilized- maca flour. Most maca flour that enters the USA is irradiated, and this affects the flavor terribly. Good maca flour (from the common golden root type) is light cream colored, with tan flecks. Use it as an additive in breads, cakes, etc – a few tablespoons worth.
If you’re going to make shakes, or want mostly therapeutic maca, use “gelatinized” maca. It is pre-cooked, has the fiber removed, and is about 5x as potent therapeutically. Even this product should be relatively inexpensive – some people charge $100 a kilogram!. I get my gelatinized from bonethruthenose (. net) at a fair USA price.
Hope that helps –
Timothy
Maca can only be grown at an elevation above 5,000 feet or so. If it is grown any lower, the fat roots do not readily form. In Bolivia it is grown at lower altitudes, so their types may grow more readily at lower elevations.
Thank you for the wealth of information! I’ll look into the gelatinized maca since I would be trying it for therapeutic reasons. Residing in Phx would negate growing it myself (unless the Bolivia type would work), but maybe I could convince the family in N Az to attempt it – LOL ; ) Thanks again!
Elisa,
There is a seller of Bolivian maca seeds presently on eBay. Query “maca seeds” on eBay.
Matter of fact, I just had about 1 tbsp of black root gelatinized maca with strawberries in a milkshake. Maca mixes really well with berry flavors, I have found.
Google “black root gelatinized maca” – black root maca is the strongest therapeutically, and I feel it has the most positive energy – there are only a few companies selling it. That’s the type I recommend.
Timothy
(and, for anybody else reading)
Again, I cannot stress the importance of cooking maca. The fibers in maca are dense and difficult to digest, this is well known (this is why a concerted effort was made to develop the fiberless ‘gelatinized’ maca in the first place). It is very odd to Peruvians that people would eat the uncooked maca flour. Even the flour used for making on-the-go shakes in major Peruvian cities is from cooked roots.
It seems that many companies selling maca in the USA are selling the raw flour plain as a nutritional supplement. Given many of the responses above, I have to consider this irresponsible, not only for people’s health, but for people’s understanding and impression of maca. Selling raw maca flour/powder as a nutritional supplement is promoting a number of negative experiences. I often hear about them myself, and am saddened by the irresponsibility of these companies who do not know/care for it’s proper preparation. The native Peru price of maca flour would be equivalent to $2/lb. You see how much it gets marked up!
Cook your maca powders/flours – and use gelatinized maca if you’re making shakes. That way you’ll at least have a legitimate maca experience, and know if the herb is right for you.
Maca root is a great food. I’m taking maca powder (raw is important) for few months, 1-2 teaspoons as it is recommended. I feel great. Of course anything can be harmful if it is overdose. I would recommend raw maca powder, not a concentrate.
Hi I am so happy I have found this site, I have been taking pre femessence for 11 weeks, had 7 days off after 8 weeks use. I started on the reccomended 4 a day but felt awful after 4 weeks roughly and was advised to reduce to 3 capsules a day, 2 am and 1 before 3pm. The product has helped the hot flushes( I am 47) and was told by my gp last year that I am going through the memopause. I am finding my sleep is disturbed and I have had no real increase in libido. Have been thinking of trying the powder or drops from Maca Magic, I currently purchase from NHI femessence. I do have quite abit of stress in my life but these days who doesn’t, I seemed to have had a good response in the first 2 weeks but then the results seemed to have faded away, but still feel better than I did before taking the Maca but would just like to feel better and sleep better so may not take the afternoon capsule? Oh I have had a nasty boil/acne spot on my chin which is now thankfully smaller but developed after taking the femessence and is still to be felt under the skin? not sure if this is to do with the Maca though? Just thought I’d add my experience to the rest and hope it helps others new to Maca.
I feel compelled to counter the widespread notion in the US “health food” community, that maca should be eaten raw.
“Gelatinized” maca is not designed for the purpose of being a concentrate. It is designed to address the digestion problem which many people have with maca, to make an acceptable product for general consumption. Bear in mind that gelatinization is only used on vegetables with a rather dense fiber matrix.
Now, I realize that raw-foodists (and companies who sell raw flour) always say it’s unilaterally better to “eat it raw” – and I realize that they are the primary maca advocates in the USA. However, in their efforts, they completely ignore traditional preparation. I can assure you that maca is cooked deliberately and for a very perceptible reason. Maca is never eaten raw in Peru, and the whole concept of eating it raw is strange.
If you have strong digestion, and eat vegetables regularly, than indeed maybe you can handle raw maca. However, in my experience growing and eating maca, raw maca flour is simply not suitable for widespread general consumption. It causes upset stomach in many people. Raw maca also slows up the thyroid, because it is full of goitrogens, being a cruciferous vegetable. It will throw off metabolism and can affect hormones in a negative way. The eating of raw maca is the primary reason for all the negative experiences people have with the herb.
That is why cooking is maca is so important, and why I will always recommend eating it that way. It is important that people understand the identity of this plant.
The Royal Maca I’ve been taking is a non-irradiated, gelatinized version. Since I began taking it about a month and a half ago, I have increased the amount to 1/2 tsp every day. I also am taking 1/2 tsp of Camu Camu. Between the two of these, I am feeling much better. I am still somewhat tired during the day but that can also be from my irregular sleep patterns.
The difference is noticeable even to my husband. He said that I am less moody, more even tempered and back to the way I was when we first met for the most part. And, to say it is a definite improvement is an understatement!
I have noticed a marked difference in my menses…for the better! Ever since I started having it, it has always been a trial – very heavy bleeding with labor pain like cramps that would radiate down into my thighs and it would be like that for a week and a half. I thought it was normal. NOW, my period lasts 5 – 7 days with a much lighter flow and hardly any cramps. It’s quite heavenly! LOL
Timothy, I’m curious to know. The research I’ve read says that in Peru female children begin eating maca when they’re around three years old. Is this because it’s incorporated into the daily diet and that’s about the age children are weaned in Peru?
Rachel – Your experience with gelatinized maca is precisely the type of experience that should be had from good maca. It is strong medicine when needed, yet also a good fortifying food when not being used for therapeutic purposes. The whole “eat it raw” thing in the health industry baffles me, quite honestly.
Maca is eaten from an early age by almost everyone, not just the women, though women are more encouraged to eat it as it benefits good development of reproduction. It is nearly always cooked extensively – porridges, breads, or roasted. The ‘raw’ root is rather bitter (as any person who consumes the raw “flour” will surely know), but much like a turnip, this bitterness goes away with proper cooking. Cooking breaks down the molecular bonds in the dense fiber, as well as rendering the goitrogens inert. It becomes much easier to digest.
Timothy – I wonder if you might have any recipes or specific instructions on incorporating the raw maca into the diet. I make my own bread and wonder how to add it to the dough and if it would change the taste….especially since I don’t particularly care for the taste of maca. LOL But, all the nutrients provided by maca root are worth adding, IMO.
HI Fran.
Thank you so much for the warning with the maca. I have just begun and will take heed. Meanwhile, I HAVE had such a positive response already in just one day. Your message however is a worthy caution to “easy does it.” SO, thanx again.
Meanwhile, regarding acne… Have you ever tried Pearl Powder?
The real stuff direct from a China town ground in front of you. I am living here in Asia and started taking it a couple of months ago and my skin is the preetiest it has very been.
As if I have had $800.00 worth of photo facials! So well, just wanted to share about that.
Take care,
Tera
WOW! I just read all the responses through 02.18.2010, all 143 of them, and I am soooooo glad that I did. What brought me to this site in a first place was my search of maca side effects due to the problems I started having about a week ago. Well, fist of all, I started taking Femmenessence MacaPause about a month and a half ago, I’ve been taking the recommended dosage of 4 capsules a day (each 500mg) 2 in the morning and 2 in the evening. I am 48 and I had no period for 14 months. I started having some stomach cramps about a week ago (5 weeks since started on Femmenessence), they were getting worse from day to day until finally I got really sick and vomited all night. That was just a day ago. Since then, stomach cramps continued and that’s when I realized that maybe maca is what’s not agreeing with me, and that’s what brought me to this site tonight. It’s 3am, I was searching maca side effects because I can’t sleep due to the terrible stomach cramps. I see that others had similar problems with using maca, so maybe it’s not for me, not everything is for everyone I guess. Also, I should mention the other issue that might be due to maca: After not having any period for 14 months, well, it came back this week as well, in all it’s glory, pain and all. Oh, and as an added bonus, I also started breaking out like I never did before, just like some of the other people mentioned in their responses (I didn’t even realize the cause until I read some of the responses above). I started taking maca because I wanted to get my body into harmony, I guess that it didn’t work that way for me. I am not trying to put this product down or anything, I am just writing this response because I know that reading the above responses helped me realize that maca is probably behind my mysterious, horrible stomach upset and most likely my period came back due to it as well. Unfortunately, I took the evening dosage already before I read all the responses above, but I won’t take it anymore, and hope that my stomach will settle down soon. In all fairness, I will response again if that’s not the case, but I have no reason to blame it on anything else in my life, and I do live a healthy lifestyle, in case anyone is wondering. In conclusion, I hope that maca will help many people, but I wanted to share my experience with those of you who are having similar problems with it like I am. I just don’t want you to feel alone and confused, I know that I did, until I read all the responses that people took time to write on this site. To all of you who did, good or bad, I am very thankful!
Thank You!
Best wishes,
Iveta
Dear Iveta
I have been taking the pre femessence for nearly 3 months but started having stomach ache/cramps just the last few weeks along with terrible sleep problems. Just so you know NHI who sell femessence have an excellent specialized health team of Naturopathic doctors and you can ring or email them just look at the nhi website. I originally reduced my dose to 3 capsules that’s 2 capsules am and 1 capsule before 3pm also I made sure I had with food or after, as I originally started taking before food as suggested on the box. just recently I have tried breaking open the capsules on my food and reduced to 1 capsule am, that was after a few days break but I found my moods terrible with returning sweats at night. I too am 48 this year and have had no periods since last August 2009 and I was told by my gp that I am at the start of my menopause, I don’t get much help from my gp they just seem to want to have you in and out in 5 mins. So like you I am on my own with this awful situation, infact I have been contemplating going to my gp and asking for HRT which I really didn’t want to do but with the sleep disturbence and stomach aches/bloated stomach etc I am getting close to it! However I have just started yesterday on one capsule am with food and I will see if things improve. I did email maca magic re there hrt drops but had no reply this I did twice so there customer service isnt too good, and the delivery cost to the UK costs more than the product itself! I also take a B vit and coral calcium and evening primrose I know its not these causing the stomach ache as I have been taking these for the last two years or so. I have had a very large acne cyst on my chin since I started taking the femessence which is now just a small red lump but still there? it was horrendous originally very large and red and full of pus which kept hard for at least 2 months so I couldnt do much with it apart from covering it with make up, its the worst I’ve ever had but as I said its now just a small red lump. I think because I started on the 4 capsules a day it may have been too much too soon. I just wish I could go to bed and sleep at least 5 hours solid without waking up! this just maybe the menopause and not the maca but I thought the maca was suppose to help with sleep not disturb it? Has anybody else found that they wake up every hour or so until early hours then I may sleep for 3/4 hours? but its not being able to get up early like I use to thats the problem I’m having to sleep to 9-9.30AM after faling into a deep sleep around 4am, its very weird I know and I’ve never had anything like this before. I hope by listing my symptoms that it helps you understand you are not alone with this horrid situation. Perhaps you should try cutting down the amount of capsules and take with food? I am 5ft and weigh 8st 10 not sure if this make s any difference?
Good luck
Best Wishes
Lorraine in the UK England
The Feminessence website says this:
“Maca-GO™ is not a standard Maca product but is one of the highest quality nutraceuticals on the market today. Maca-GO™ is an organically grown and processed, proprietary combination of four major phenotypes of Lepidium peruvianum Chacon – a specific species of the herb commonly known as Maca. There are a number of different phenotypes of Lepidium peruvianum Chacon – each appearing to display different gender and age-related effects. From the organic Maca roots, which are planted and grown on NHI’s plantation at 4,300m in the Peruvian Andes, NHI selects only specific phenotypes.”
Then, it goes on to say
“NHI’s entire process, which avoids extreme heat, chlorine and other chemicals, is the only 100% natural and organic method currently in operation in Peru.”
This is all purely marketing fluff, and beneath these words is vague dishonesty. I really don’t like addressing these companies’ claims, but this needs some clarification –
1. “lepidium peruvianum” is the latin name applied to ALL cultivated maca. It is not “a specific species of the herb” – it is in fact the only one in extensive cultivation. The other – ‘lepidium meyenii’ is an an older botanical name for the same cultivated plant.
2. There are 4 major phenotypes (ecotypes) – red, black, white, green. There is some variation among the white ecotype -mostly selected for sweetness, and size. Black is the strongest medicinally. White is cheapest. The website makes no mention of which they select.
3. Organic -nearly all maca is grown organically. There is little initial need for agricultural chemicals at such altitudes, and maca is itself a natural pest repellent. The fields are fertilized with alpaca and sheep manure. The natural phytosteroid content of cruciferous vegetables ensures optimum growth – chemical fertilizer has little effect on maca. To claim that one place “is the only organic operation in Peru” is not fair or accurate. There are dozens of organic maca fields.
– - – - – - – - – - –
The clinical trials in the past 15 years in Peru have nearly all been conducted with “gelatinized” maca. It’s about 6:1 ratio compared to raw roots. There’s no need to think that “raw” maca is somehow better – these ‘enzymes’ that raw foodists go on about are broken down into amino acids during digestion anyway. The same as happens in cooking.
I want to encourage scientific literacy, not just with maca, but generally. Please, do your own research. Look for genuine scientific studies, not advertising “science.” Peer-reviewed, genuine studies. Maca is a great plant and herb, and I do not want to see the dishonesty of many US companies distorting people’s understanding of it. Try the herb yourself, as a food, as it is intended to be. It is always stronger, yet more gentle.
I have inquired a bit further, and found out that NHI is one of a handful of companies who are trying to patent Maca, so they may have a legal right to an exclusive / particular use of the herb.
Sadly this practice is permissable in today’s world. It takes rights away from native growers – the people who bred and grew it for milennia in the first place. It is wholly unethical.
A US company did this a few years back (when they tried to patent MacaPure) and there was a boycott and many angry people in Peru.
We should not support this practice in any form.
Hi Tim,
I wish you had contacted someone at our company before you started making incorrect comments.
1. Lepidium Meyenni includes many different plants called maca in South America. This is the reason Dr Gloria Chacon has made it her life’s work since 1968 to demonstrate that the maca in Peru is different to the rest of South America which it is. We have worked with over 20 different herbarium’s around the world and shown that as an example maca from Bolivia is very different from maca in Peru. While you are right in one respect most of the maca on the market is Lepidium Peruvianum there are some companies we have found in Europe who use maca from Bolivia making the same claims which they can’t prove.
2. Each maca phenoptype has a different DNA and in some cases analytical profile. Yes we do not mention which combination we use as it is the result of 10 years of research and millions of dollars. It is a trade secret not how you later state patented. I don’t know if you looked into the head of our R&D Dr Henry Meissner but he is a world renowned expert in herbs and natural products and in fact he is the one who started researching individual phenotypes and through our initial evidence Dr Gonzales who is probably the premier researcher on Peru on maca and men also started to look into this.
3. I don’t know if you have been to Peru but there is extensive mining in some of the areas where maca is grown. While the initial lands are definitely organic there is potential concern in some areas due to mining and run off. Also not all facilities in Peru which manufacture are organic and virtually none but ours is also EU Organic, JA Organic, GMP and Kosher.
4. If you look at the clinical trials on Maca-GO our ingredient you will see that Gelatinization is part of our process and in fact Dr Meissner is the scientist who perfected it as we have a 99.9% water solubility versus other “gelatinized maca” products. As an aside all products are not actual gelatinized but reach a pre gelatinized state.
5. Our clinical trials have been peer reveiwed and are published in international medical journals including the North American Menopause Society (NAMS) journal Menopause. We have also done full pharmacology and toxicology. One of our shareholders owns over 100 hospitals and employs over 30,000 doctors and nurses who would have major issues with “false science”. On top of that we have Dr Tori Hudson on our medical board who is regarded as probably the top Naturopathic Doctor in women’s health and is the head of OBGYN at National and Bastyr ND Universities. Dr Hudson actually includes our research in the education of MDs and NDs.
6. We are not patenting a plant like Pure World tried to we are patenting a manufacturing process. In fact I take real offense to your lack of due dilligence in this process. NHI works with local farmers and contract grows crops to our exact specifications. We employ local people all year round for the planting, growing, harvesting and drying process. Then unlike nearly every other international company we also have our own manufacturing in Peru ie we do all our value adding in Peru employing people all year round as well. So instead of exporting a $4 powder we sell a $100 finished product around the world significantly supporting both the Peruvian economy and the hundreds of people involved with NHI. As an aside we have operations in Vanuatu where we do the same and many other countries.
I suggest you read some of these artciles which give you some more information http://www.naturalhi.com/Editorials.aspx
James Frame
CEO
Natural Health International
Dear Iveta & Lorraine,
I am sorry to hear about your reaction. We actually have full time Naturopathic Doctors on staff who can talk to you at any stage on 888 668 3661
It is very interesting that you took Femmenessence for 5 weeks and only now are having a reaction. Also Femmenessence is manufactured so it isnt raw but in a pre gelatinized state. However even then it is important for some people to take it with food.
It does appear that as we sometime see 4 capsules per day can be too much so reducing the dose is important.
Also timing can be key. If you take the product at around dinner time it can boost your energy just when you want to go to sleep. So ideally taking it first thing in the morning and the afternoon an hour before you normally have an energy low.
Also many women experience toxicity around menopause which can both cause other issues and sleep trouble. Again can I suggest ringing and speaking to one of our doctors so they can not only help you with dosing but also other lifestyle support.
Regards,
James Frame
CEO
Natural Health International
Thank you. Much of my anger is misplaced, it seems. I am lumping together where I ought not to. (Only wear the shoe if it fits.) I have seen too much hijimnks with maca, particularly in the USA – where people are selling $2 quantities of maca flour for $15-20. This, and many similar practices have made me very cynical about the “natural health” industry. Thank you for responding to clarify.
No worries Tim, I share your frustration at our industry and that is why we are trying so hard to lead the market and educate as much as we can.
Regards,
James
Hi Emma,
dosage of maca as with any supplement whether food,herb or chemical, always has to be adjustable according to a persons body weight,sensitivity, and how often they cleanse, if they are diabetic or have digestive diseases.
I’m an herbalist/acupuncturist.
with a product such as this, start with the minimal and work your way up. if you have done lots of cleansing/detox on relular basis, minimal health problems,no digestive problems or diabetes, i’d work up to 1.5 – 2 tbs. if you weigh near a hundred lbs dont take over 1 tbs.
unless you have a strong allergic reaction which is probably rare for this product, with other side affects just back down a bit until they go away and increase slower.
oh yes, and just so you know, I dont sell maca or any maca products.
Hey to all … i must say that taking Maca has been an a journey… so i am going to tell you myh story and hope that it help others. I was told that i have a condition called P.C.O.S ( please look up)… which causes my body not to be able to produce the hormones that i need. I was giving every kind of birth control all of which seem to make me sick, but it did allow my period to come. But i would die from the cramps that i had …So i went to a health food store and was told to take Royal Maca and at first taking 3 pills which is 1500mg seem to make me have cramps the same day so talking to my mother decided that i should just take one a day and grow to two, and thats what i did, i have had my period, and my hormones are balanced, i have no acne, no not -so-normal hair growth, my mood as improve, i have energy because of the greatness i have had with the product my mother now takes it for menopause symptoms. ALSO A PLUS MY WEIGHT SEEM TO DECREASE. ….. I use Whole World Botanicals-Certified Maca Root Vegetarian Capsules ….. (Please Note because it is a herb the goverment has nothing to do with it…..living through other experiences make us stronger) i hope all the luck i have find …..i wil keep you updated on any other side effects ..love Maca Root ..
Thank you everyone for posting your reaction to Maca. I think I will hold off trying it.
From what I can gather from the comments, it appears that people try Maca and if they have a negative response, immediately state that it’s bad and shouldn’t be used.
I’ve had such a wonderful response from this root that I feel it’s sad people read the comments and immediately state “uh oh, not going to try that”. As with anything, IMO, the amount is what is important. I started the Royal Maca in gelatinized powder form at the smallest measuring spoon I had and then eventually moved it up to 1/2 teaspoon a day.
In the meantime, my menses has gone from a 12 on the pain, flow and clotting scale to about a 4-5. It hasn’t affected the cycle length that I have noticed. It still appears to be about every 30 days. In fact, my husband said he had no idea my menses had begun because I didn’t have my normal mood issues. THAT was a surprise as I didn’t realize I WAS having a mood change beforehand. LOL
My energy flow is MUCH better, I am not angry all the time or short tempered like I was. No mood swings. Now to be fair, I am also taking camu camu with it. 1/2 teaspoon of each every day.
IMO, I’ve suffered from a lack of proper nutrients to support my endocrine system, hence my hypoglycemic diagnosis years ago. Maca is a food chock full of nutrients that the body needs, not a magic pill.
I would suggest researching the root and, if it sounds like something you would benefit from, start at the LOWEST serving possible. SLOWLY move up from there keeping track of how you feel.
And, it may be that people’s reactions are because of the wide range of information about how much to take. For instance, I read at http://www.ehow.com/how_2058280_use-maca-root-health.html that the Discovery Channel said to take 3,000 to 5,000 milligrams per day for beneficial results. But, I’ve received benefits from taking the recommended 1/2 teaspoon (1250 milligrams). I’m not sure what my reaction would have been if I just jumped into the amount recommended by Discovery Channel. I can well imagine it would not have been a pleasant transition.
Anyways, that’s my take on it.
what about if I want to use for balance hormones and acne – I saw at the food store they just put maca in the shake and that’s why I bought some. I am confused if I have the powder do I have to bake in oven before adding to my shake? Please clarify
For some reason the “health food” industry encourages people to use raw maca flour in shakes. It is well known that eating maca like this can cause digestive trouble. If it you already know it doesn’t bother you, then I suppose there’s no problem. In Peru they use pre-toasted or gelatinized maca for shakes. Raw flours are for cooking and baking. Only outside of Peru do people use it for raw. But again, there’ no problem if it doesn’t bother you, it’s just not the traditional use – and doesn’t do well for many people.
in raw form(powder) is where you get your enzymes, minerals and vitamins. cook it and it minimises the effects. If you have digestive problems, GO SLOW, GO MINIMAL, and work up. you can also take probiotics which are important to take for health if you live in the u.s. anyway.
this is an excellent product, just use it with dare is say, ‘caution’ as with anything you ingest.
I know that the ‘health food’ industry constantly suggests otherwise, but for consumer education, I have to point out that the raw maca flour (powder) [harina de maca] is an inexpensive provincial baking ingredient. They pay $2/lb and get to sell it for $25-30. That’s why many companies hock it so liberally – it’s a huge profit margin. My understanding is that the active effects of maca arise from a synergy of unique alkaloids and amino acids. “Enzymes” in most any raw food are broken down into more basic peptides and amino acids by the stomach, similar to what happens in cooking. Enzymes are not absorbed by your body in ‘enzyme’ form – they get broken down for processing by our faculative mammalian digestive tracts, just like everything else. Traditionally in the Andes maca is always eaten cooked – if you have ever tried maca chips, granules, or gelatinized maca, then you know that cooked maca is by far more efficacious in it’s effects. I much more highly recommend a product of a cooked nature over raw maca powder. If people want a good genuinely “raw” maca product, then I recommend the freeze-dried juices recently available. They are excellent! (and more easily digested)
That’s my 2 cents.
I should mention that I am certainly a raw enthusiast – I have a sizable collection of fruit trees and a large fresh vegetable garden. I always encourage people to eat more raw foods – however I feel some foods are traditionally cooked for a good perceptible reason – and maca is one of those foods – it is cooked for good digestion and increased effect.
Thanks Timothy. I’m interested in learning all I can about maca and must say, what I advise is generic for any supplement. I do do not know enough about maca specifically, except for taking it myself which has helped tremendously for bone re-mineralisation, feeling stronger, bringing down inflammation of RA as well as pre-menopause or menopause by now:) so I guess just as with Beans, maca has certain enzymes that are too difficult to digest for a lot of people in raw form? where do you get your information on maca. I’d like to learn more so I can inform my patients when I suggest it to them.
Thanks again for your contributing information.
It’s really just a familiarity with maca itself. I have been eating and growing it for some time, and specialize in horticulture. Interestingly, the community of maca exporters and growers keeps a close watch on the popular US “wikipedia” page for maca. So, their list of resources / references is unusually comprehensive.
Maca has a dense nutritional matrix, and also lots of fiber. This fiber is tough (particularly raw) and is known in Peru to cause digestive difficulty. It is softened by cooking. A “gelatinization’ processs for maca was developed specifically to address this digestion issue. That’s the only reason the process is really used.
All live foods contain enzymes, the more fresh a food is, the more intact enzymes it contains. Enzymes are biochemical catalysts- they instigate chemical reactions. Their ubiquitous presence in fresh foods is due to their crucial role in all the biological processes of that food as it grows. Enzymes are mainly proteins – amino acids. When eaten, they are broken down into their basic parts – amino acids. This happens in cooking (application of heat) as well.
Hi Timothy,
Just like beans. I am very familiar with the physiological break down of food stuff and rough fiber in the human body, but was not aware of the maca having high fiber.
What I’m more interested in are the property changes of the maca root. With herbs(herbs are plants also), the medicinal properties of properties can often but not always weaken and some change all together and thus the benefits change, and may no longer be used for a particular ailment, now, more beneficial for some other unrelated health issue. This is my concern about cooking it. do you know if it has synergistic effects of the same properties or have you noticed any other differences as well and do you know if there is any research out there so I can find this out?
Thanks
Yes, many herbs change in properties by the application of heat, and some lose their potency altogether. I have a personal everyday preference for gelatinized maca because it’s effects are strong, both energetically and nutritionally. My personal experiences with maca are anecdotal – though I do know that clinical studies and peer-reviewed studies often use extracts (some being alkaloid only), or the gelatinized products. In general, alkaloids (nitrogen-based – physically active / psychocative molecules in plants) are not destroyed by heat. Neither are amino acids destroyed by heat unless it is a high heat, or is for a long duration.
I would say that my experiences are:
- Maca flour: mild physical effects – some digestive difficulty when used raw.
- Maca chips (toasted whole-food maca): Warm, energetic, easier on digestion.
- Gelatinized maca: Warm, energetic, positive mood, etc. Notably stronger physical mental and therapeutic effects.
- Freeze Dried Juiced Raw Maca: Like gelatinized, but even stronger and more intense.
- Maca Liquid extracts: Usually energetic, similar to coffee, but not as profoundly physical.
That’s been my experience. I find also that “black” maca has a bit more of an edge than the common white/cream colored roots.
This posting is just spreading fear for a product that is used everyday by many people without negative side effects.
Anyone in their right mind knows that you cannot continue to increase any herb or medicine just because it seems to be working.
This is a common, western mentally of want a miracle over night, instead of allow the body time to heal itself with the aid of an herb or medication.
I use maca and have not had any negative side affects.
Stop spreading fear………..this is probably posted by one of the large pharmaceutical companies …lol!
Hi, I took maca when my menstruation was late 10 days, next day boom, my period…a week later I took it, trice, 2 days, just to be healthy, and anxiety attacks, nightmares, headache and stomach cramping, major insomnia (heart racing) and libido up in spite of this. I didn’t think it was the maca, but that’s the only thing I did differently…oh and RAGE! It is the same exact symptoms of panic disorder, even the increased libido, so I’m hoping it’s the maca, and I’m back to normal soon, I did not take it yesterday, but experienced all of those symptoms…anyone?
Okay, I took out my maca it is from Peru – lepidium meyeni – says organic maca powder.
What’s best way to use this form of maca for it’s benefits to balance hormones, energy and nutrients?
I always keep some maca powder (flour) on hand to use in cooking – pancakes, breads, etc. Goes great in brownies, banana bread, or anything with ginger, pumpkin, chocolate or coffee.
If the raw powder does not upset your stomach, then you can use it raw, but it can be harsh on the thyroid (goitrogens). Only cooked macas should be used for hormonal or thyroid type therapies. Raw macas can actually produce very undesired effects in thyroid patients, where the cooked macas assist. This is a case of cooking versus not cooking can produce nearly opposite effects.
If it doesn’t bother you, and you feel it is of benefit, there’s not much danger in taking it raw, I suppose. I find that the medicinal effect is not as potent as more refined products. For therapy purposes, the gelatinized is certainly more versatile (and less bitter).
macalady,
Some of those symptoms can indicate that your body is receiving unwanted stimulation. I have the same (or similar) sensations with some herbs I use. This can be caused by alkaloids such as caffiene, or “macanes’ and “macamides” in maca, which also have lifting physical effects. It can also be hormonal. Because it has substantial goitrogens (like and raw cruciferous vegetable does – broccoli, turnips, kale, etc) raw maca will sometimes throw hormones off by slowing the thyroid in sensitive individuals. If you are using the flour (powder), try cooking with it, or use gelatinized maca. Either one is more gentle.
Timothy, you make a good point here about ‘unwanted stimulation’to the body. The whole reason people go to me or another healthcare practitioner who has been trained in herbal/food(dietary) supplements is to see what their body requires so it returns to balance. many people take this and other herbs to increase libido when the cause is not necessarily a deficiency of corticostseroids etc and thus can cause anger/rage in an individual. this is just one example and is not directed to anyone specific here. it may or may not be the issue for them. one would have to have a health consultation with a licensed Acupuncturist trained in herbal and dietary supplementation to tell you for sure what’s going on and if it is right for you. sometimes, there is no telling for sure unless you try it. I would just not consider maca or any product a ‘bad’ remedy because it causes problems in some people and not in others. get checked and see if it is right for you. hope this helps.
Yes – some herbs just don’t vibe with people, due to their bodily ‘constitution.’ These very same herbs which cause anger and upset in some can be very positive & life-changing for someone else. I have several foods and herbs I have to avoid. Coffee makes me very edgy, for instance. Maca is one of those herbs that just vibes well with me.
Hi
Can anyone tell me if Lepidum Meyenil Walp (whole herb) non gelatnized is ok on the stomach it is sold in capsules vegetable cellulose and water are the only other ingredients? 500mg per capsule states take just before food. No Gelatine and sold as Natural 100% pure. Peruvian Maca from seventh wave.
Any advice appreciated.
lorraine,
many companies are simply putting maca flour into capsules – that sounds like what you have there. 500 mg is a very small amount of maca. at such small amounts, they pay pennies for the maca, and most of the product’s initial cost is packaging. the rest (likely 6-7X markup) is all profit for them.
for maca flour, 10,000 mg (10g) is a good therapeutic amount – many in Peru eat much more on a daily basis. i eat at least three times that equivalently. even then, I wouldn’t recommend using “raw” maca flour. i recommend gelatinized because it is 6X concentrated and therefore easier to get a therapeutic dose. with the flour, one has to cook, bake, and eat much larger quantities to achieve the same effect.
Hi Timothy
Thank you for that, I thought it was but the company promote it well. Seventh Wave.com It seems quite difficult to get good gelatinized maca here in the UK, I did like the look of Maca Magic HRT due to it being oral drops and there was some good feedback on this site but shipping costs more than the product itself! I’ll just have to keep searching. Many Thanks
I’m wondering if maca is perhaps toxic in its raw state like other starchy roots, such as African yams and the Philippine cassava root (also known as yuca). I am part Filipino and have lived in the Philippines, and I know that cassava root is NEVER to be eaten raw. In fact, the last time I visited the Philippines, there was a news report about a family who all died after consuming the root since they didn’t cook it properly to thoroughly destroy all the toxins. Depending on the region where it’s grown, the toxic levels of the cassava root can vary from being minor (resulting in minor illness) to highly fatal. In my opinion, the best way to eat something is to find out HOW it was prepared and eaten by the natives and indigenous groups. Also, many times certain food items are traditionally combined with other food items for good reasons (e.g. raw fish and wasabi). There’s a lot of ignorance being taught among the health gurus who mean well but don’t realize their concepts don’t always apply to all foods nor to everyone. Although I eat a lot of raw veggies, I’m not totally buying into the modern health craze that preaches we should eat EVERYTHING raw for optimum health. My mom never had a salad in her life until she came to the US, and before moving here, she was slim, energetic, and highly fertile (lol). Many of her ancestors lived past the age of 100 with perfect vision and a sound mind, and they never incorporated a lot of raw foods in their diet, except for maybe fruit.
LeAnne
Maca itself is safe and non-toxic. It is cruciferous, the same plant family as broccoli, turnips, and horseradish. Cassava (Maniot) you mention is indeed toxic (deadly) when eaten raw – it has to be processed correctly.
Maca however doesn’t really have any measured toxicity levels at all. What has been happening with maca is improper preparation. Like you say, the “health food” industry (particularly raw foodists) are selling loads of maca flour (powder), which has always been a traditional baking ingredient. It is meant to be cooked. They pay $3-4 a kilogram for raw maca flour, and turn around to sell it for $50, by proclaiming the benefits of it being “raw” “with enzymes” and other science-esque descriptive words.
People who eat this flour raw are likely to experience digestive difficulty, or thyroid problems (as maca is very high in goitrogens) when using it in large quantity. Cooking, even lightly, eliminates this problem with maca entirely – it breaks down the harsh fiber and neutralizes the goitrogens. That’s why people in the Andes cook it – the body responds better to it. There is usually a logical reason for the native use of a plant/herb, after all.
Raw-foodism can be healthy, but should not be followed unilaterally as a food religion (which it is for some). Humans have faculative digestive systems, and our relationship with fire has played an important role in our past. It is always best to know as much as possible about what you are eating – and not have some unbased preconception of “how” you should eat it. The ‘health food” industry sadly tends to encourage the latter.
I eat maca every day. But it is always cooked. Toasted maca chips, gelatinized maca, or cooked maca flour. I scratch my head continuously at those who insist on eating it raw. It is baffling.
Timothy,
Thanks so much for the response. I’m really glad to know that maca itself isn’t toxic because after reading the first several comments, I started to get scared for all the people who have been taking the powder in its raw form. It was only a few weeks ago that I found out about maca after googling herbs that help balance hormones. I was impressed by all the health benefits attributed to this root, but wanted to learn more about it before buying. I wasn’t sure which type to get seeing that it comes in a variety of supplemental forms. Since I’m interested in mixing maca into my smoothie blends, I’m convinced that the gelatinized powder is what I should go with for now. By the way, I went ahead and ordered the gelatinized black maca powder from the site you mentioned. Their price is certainly excellent compared to other sites. I am very much looking forward to incorporating maca into my diet!
I started to take maca roots thinking that could help for hair loss and i hope to increase my hair density. So far arter 4 months, i noticed that the hair loss has slowed down but i started to use Nioxin shampoo in about the same time. I am just wandering what did help. Is anyone who takes maca has seen something different with their hairs… By the way, i’ve never had any bad side effects so far taking Maca roots, i just feel more energetic.
Just wanted to thank Timothy for his *superb* posts in this thread. Clearly the voice of experience.
My experience of *raw* maca in the form of capusles from “Now Foods” was very unfortunate. I had not even planned on taking this herb right now, but stupidly had reached into my closet and thought I had taken down a bottle of bromelain! it looks exactly the same.–
Imagine my distress as I’m suddenly dealing with *serious* abdominal pain, cramping, bloating, etc. They thought ot was my gallbaldder even though the ultrasound was inconclusive. So I’m being prepped for surgery next week. Damn!
Cleaning up my kitchen I knocked over my bottle of “bromelain” and — well — it wasn’t bromelain. But maca. Apparently of the raw variety.
Lessons learned the hard way. Off it now for a week and no more problems. And I still have a gallbladder. Sheesh…
I remember in Chris Kilham’s book “Tales From The Medicine Trail” (a great reference, actually) there’s an entire chapter on maca’s traditional use. The author also cites the toxicity studies – Maca has none.
Yes, the black root gelatinized is great stuff. At least one fruit/vegetable shake I make per day contains it. I use about 1 tablespoon or so, but it’s probably best to start out at 1 teaspoon.
Bonethruthenose.net also sent me a collection of smoothie recipes with my order last time. One recipe included durian! (wow, if it’s your thing…)
Timothy—
I have a big ol’ bag of raw maca (i was told that raw is best!) I don’t want to put it in baked goods-can I roast the powder in the oven??-I hate to waste it (and it cost so much!)
Thanks for all of your info.
I can’t believed I received my package of maca from Bone Thru The Nose (Skyfield Tropical) so fast! Especially since I selected the cheapest method of shipping and didn’t expect my order to arrive for at least a week. I have to say, I am EXTREMELY pleased with the product and have no idea why many people have said they can’t stomach the stuff. I added an entire tablespoon to my smoothie and found that it added a wholesome, nutty flavor to my drink that I can appreciate. The company also included with my order a sheet with a list of smoothie recipes, which I’ll have to try out. Although, I’m really not a fan of durian because of the way the fruit smells, but I do like jackfruit! Timothy, thank you so much for recommending this wonderful product!
@ “harsh side effects” –
I would say that’s the “raw” maca messing with digestion. It doesn’t do this to everybody – but some people just have a bad reaction to it.
@ LeAnne – Yeah, Bone Thru The Nose.net is good, very rapid in my experience too. That ‘black root’ maca has a nice, warm lift to it. Love it.
If you ever cook with the flour (i recommend the white root unsterilized kind), you’ll notice that same warming, happy feeling when you eat the foods. That’s how good maca should feel.
I understand what people mean when they say they don’t like maca’s flavor. Uncooked maca flour is bitter (goitrogens in all raw cruciferous veggies are a bitter flavor). It does not surprise me at all if people who eat the raw flours do not like the bitter, off-flavor. Cooked macas do not really have a bitter flavor, they actually have a fragrant, nutty, slightly sweet flavor.
Sonia,
Raw is often best for fruits and leafy vegetables. I myself tend to cook tubers, roots, and hypocotyls (turnips, beets, radish, etc), though it does depend on what it is (Jicama, an exception for instance).
I also have several lbs of raw maca flour, mainly for baking. To heat the flour, I might suggest speading it in a glass cooking pan of some sort and heating it 180-200F for an hour, until heated through. Low temperature, at length. I use this same method to dry herbs in a pinch. The principle is just to lightly cook the maca.
However, for the breakdown of fibers, ideally there should be moisture present. In which case I might suggest simmering (but not boiling) the flour in some coconut or almond milk, then chilling and using as needed in shakes that way. This is how I use some root herbs. Just some ideas.
In Peru maca flour is just a few dollars / Kg. For reference, a good USA price is $20-25 per KG (2.2 lbs). There are a few vendors offering fair prices, mostly online.
Dear Timothy
I have just found a company here in the Uk that sells gelatinized Maca powder and capsules, its a 250 gram pot of powder for £15.00 INC post. Its Premium Organic Lepidium Meyenii. I was taking Lepidium peruvianum Chacon Maca Go from NHI but having had several very annoying problems such as insomnia I am trying the powder, I haven’t seen a menstrual cycle for 7 months and I am experiencing menopausal symptoms such as fog brain, moods,tiredness and lack of sleep amongst many other symptoms, so I will see how I go on the powder, I started with 2 capsules in the morning and 2 capsules before 3pm with NHI but found this dosage too high and have been experimenting with a lower doasge and went from 4 to 3 to 2 to 1 a day but I still have sleep problems and feel I need a higher dose to manage the menopausal symptoms but when I did increase the capsules I got stomach cramps so I broke open the capsules and sprinkled on my porridge but to be honest I now feel it best to try another maca product, as I have been taking NHI’s capsules since November 2009. Do you have any suggestions as to how much I should use? the tub states 4-6 teaspoons a day but I’m very nervous of trying this dose as I have only been taking one capsule for several weeks of the other product. I hope you don’t mind me asking you but you seem to know so much about Maca and I need all the help I can get. I am 47 years old and I weigh around 54 kilos height 5ft, not sure if this matters but thought it best to include. Any sugestions greatly appreciated. Thank you.
Lorraine, I’m no doctor, but I’ll try my best to answer what I can-
With maca, the difference between capsuled products and powdered products is mainly nutritional. You are getting a whole synergy of nutrients when you eat maca – each contributing in some subtle way to the overall effect. In addition to the active alkaloids, maca has a unique combination of amino acids, and trace minerals (even some iodine).
What sometimes happens in the extraction / standardization of herbs (contrary to the intent) is that some character, or potency of the whole herb’s effect is lost inadvertently. Commercially available Kava or Ashwagandha products are ideal examples of this phenomenon – where standardized extracts of these herbs are not nearly as good and pleasantly efficacious as fresh, potent herb material. That’s because there is a more subtle synergy going on, that is difficult to fully isolate. That, plus herb potency itself can vary immensely – anyone who has grown their own will know what I mean.
This can be the case with maca, which is why I take interest in the powders. I find the effect of eating maca to be more rounded, more total. More pleasant. Then again, that’s just me. Concerning dosages, 4-6 teaspoons – that’s a bit high to start off with gelatinized maca. Start with one teaspoon and you can work up to 3 (1 tablespoon), until you feel comfortable with the effects. Some people use more, and it is of course perfectly safe to do so.
£15 seems like a bit much for 225g – I know a few companies which will give you twice that amount for the same price (US dollars). I don’t know if BoneThruTheNose.net ships internationally (they might) – but you can also investigate Imperial Gold; (imperialgoldmaca.com) or Intimaca (www.intimaca.com). Or, query “gelatinized bulk maca” and see what else turns up.
I hope this is somewhat helpful,
- Timothy
Hi! Guys and gals all of you are treating the simptons not looking at the cause. The cause of illness is in your spine. The vertebras out in your spine pinch the nerve restricting life to the organ or limb. Eventually no spark no life. Put your spine back into align before your illness changes into cancer down the track. I scan patients all day with spinal damage. I see the connection to the organ and the damage to this organ from restriction of nerve, blood, oxygen, minerals, vitamins and hormones. Eventually cancer strikes these organs or the patient has a heart attack from no function of the blood flow ,nerve etc to and fro. the patient feels pain right through the heart to the lung like a knife blade through them. This doesn’t mean you are having a heart attack from cholesterol built up in the arteries when you are young. Because young people burn off the fats with exercise. But a MD will give a by pass operation on this patient any way because he is not trained in the spine and its connection to the bodies function. Every illness you suffer you have vertebra out of alignment. I specialise in this diagnosis and read all illness through the spine. This is how we pick up Cancer long before md’s and gp’s, ten years in advance to their machines they use in hospitals and clinics. When there is no nerve, blood etc there is no life in this area so an illness develops. Check out my web page on Natural Therapies Pages. Code. Practitioner
4885.
Hi Timothy
Thank you so very much for all your advice and help, I have ordered the black gelatinized Maca powder from bonethruthenose. I have stopped using the NHI pre femessence and my sleep has improved, although I did have some good responses to this product i.e hair/nail growth less flushes and my moods improved I just couldn’t stand the constant lack of sleep even on just one capsule. I have started with one teaspoon on my porridge and will gradually increase to one tablespoon with the new powder.
Have a great weekend
Best Regards
Lorraine
Lorraine,
In my experience, maca is a very good herb/food. So, if someone isn’t having an ideal experience, I always recommend that people try different forms of it. The products on the market vary widely in their presentation of maca. I hope you have a better experience with some different products. I myself have tried many, many products across the board. I would also recommend Chris Kilham’s book “Tales From the Medicine Trail” if you want to learn about maca’s heritage and traditional use (it’s really inexpensive @ amazon.com).
Good luck,
- Timothy
Hi Everyone starting macca powder today, i’ll keep you all posted on it’s effects on my menopausal symptoms.
I’m a 54 yr. old woman who recently had hormone postive breast cancer. Presently taking Aramatose Inhibitors to prevent my body from producing hormones. Also on anti-depressant, so sensation is numb. Is Maco a good choice for me?
In Elaine Hollingsworth’s book ‘Take Control of Your Health and Escape the Sickness Industry’ she has cautioned anyone, male or female, who have hormone related cancers from taking Maca powder. The following is from her book. “Maca: Contraindications
Because Maca regulates hormones, and because no double-blind testing has been done to prove
its safety when used by those with hormone-related cancers (breast, female organs, testicular,
etc) we advise extreme caution. Maca should not be taken during pregnancy, nor while breastfeeding.
Also, consult your health practitioner if you have bladder or liver disease or high
blood pressure. The use of fertility drugs, black cohosh, dong quai, ginseng or licorice root
along with Maca is not recommended. E.H.”
I am peruvian and I am taking Maca for some time now. Of couse, like with evertyhing else, I take it with moderation since we are all different and our bodies may have different responses. I had very bad acne and i am perimenopausal(hot flashes). So I started taking 1000mg twice a day for 3 to 4 days and then stopped for about a week.Took Maca again the way I explained above and the flashes stopped for about 4 months. when they came back i started taking the Maca more often. I took 1000 mg for 4 days stopped for that week and then again for another 4 days . Flashes stopped in a two week period after I started again. My understanding since I am peruvian is to take Maca a max of 3 month and then stopped for 6 months. That is what I have always know the treatment should be. I take Maca everynow and then( once or twice a week and then wait for a couple of weeks or so). My acne has cleared so much, but honestly this won’t happen overnight. It did take me about 8 months to stop the breakouts. Remember ,Maca is a natural product and we need to understand that and let our body adapt slowly. Good luck to all!
Thanks for all the great information on Maca. After reading your information I was very excited to start on bought some Maca online http://www.zobilgreens.com.au
I took1.5tablespoons of Maca on days 1-14 and than half this 3/4 tablespoons on remaining days. My skin has improved by nearly 70% in last 45 days, I am so impressed.
I have not had a period for over a year, I am 54 years old. But after taking Maca, I am wondering if that is why now all of a sudden I had a period and my breasts were extremely tender? Should I discontinue? I don’t want periods again if this is causing it.
Hi, very interesting forum, I came on here because myself and my sis have both been taking maca. I know people who have had amazing effects.. however my libido is low and has remained low. My sister’s libido was boosted.. however she got severe breast pain, really bad pmt for 2 weeks every cycle, worse anxiety and period pain than normal… .And i know for some people it helps normalise period pain. Firstly, we were taking too much… she was taking up to 2 tablespoons a day. I would take a smoothie with a tablespoon in it, but not every day. Neither of us knew to take it only on days 1-14. I did get, on 2 occasions, a severe stabbing pain in the breast. I was taking the raw powder, and was thinking it wasn’t strong enough… i noticed no boost to my energy either. Anyway my question is… I can see that the raw powder is problematic for many and can be hard to digest ( i eat mainly raw food and hadn’t had probs digesting it) and my raw foodist friends had always recommended the freeze dried juice of the root as the best most potent way to take it. So I’m thinking of getting it and just taking maybe a teaspoon or half of one, days 1-14 and seeing do I get a result. Any recurrence of that breast pain though i will be stopping it.. it was severe! I’m wondering what people on here think of the freeze dried juice products? Is the juice ok, even if the raw flour is not really suitable to eat unless cooked?
The primary issues that come with ‘raw’ maca, though they are not too common, are generally are twofold:
1. Goitrogens – maca is cruciferous, so just like raw turnips or raw broccoli it is rich in goitrogens. This can interfere with thyroid in some people. It can negatively affect hormones in sensitive people. This may be responsible for your sister’s bad experience. Cooking deactivates goitrogens.
2. Fiber – raw maca also has dense fiber, which causes digestive issues in many people. This is a main reason why maca is cooked traditionally.
Freeze-dried raw juice – I am a huge fan of the raw maca freeze-dried juices. It is fantastically strong maca (at least 10x stronger than raw powder). It is a very strong product that will ignite things like you can’t believe. Not for the faint of heart, you will notice this maca. Even I won’t use it every day, and if one uses too much… you’ll be climbing on the ceiling for a bit not unlike spiderman. Intense maca for intense personalities. My only real issue with it is the price – It’s very expensive.
As I said in some earlier posts, my preference is for the gelatinized ‘black’ maca, chiefly because it is strong, but not too strong (about 5-6X stronger than the flour). It also tends to be half the price of freeze-dried raw juice, so it just seems like the best choice economically. I’ll use freeze-dried juice once in awhile, but I use gelatinized ‘black’ maca daily. You get an equivalent effect, albeit muted in comparison, but honestly I find it more pleasant. Absorbs quickly, and it’s difficult to accidentally use too much. — Also, if the breast pain was caused by goitrogen hormone interference, gelatinized (or cooked / toasted maca) would be the only way to avoid that problem.
Both macas are good products, but different, for different types of people. That’s my 2 cents there…
This is a question for Timothy…I have organic maca powder from Mountain Rose Herbs; it seems it may probably be raw since the packaging does not indicate it has been toasted. If I cook a little in milk to make hot cocoa, would that sufficiently cook it?
I am feeling enlightened by this discussion, especially the goitrogenic activity of raw maca. I began taking maca for hormonal balance (low progesterone, estrogen heavy), and for a while, was feeling an instant boost in energy, less need to dip into my daily nettles infusion (which I make for energy and adrenal support). But I started taking a bit in the late afternoon as well, when my energy would take a dive; it would help my energy but then I would have stomach upset. I figured last night I was taking too much. I’ve also felt other emotional imbalances which are not normal for me, and am breaking out on my face, whereas I usually do not have this problem at all.
I am going to adjust my dosage and stop during the second half of my cycle, but when I use it, to also cook it somehow; I was thinking that cooking it for several minutes in water or milk to make a hot drink would be easier than actually whipping up batches of maca muffins all the time.
Will my idea sufficiently deactivate the goitrogens? I think that is what was messing me up, as my thyroid is already affected by adrenals that are taxed and progesterone/estrogen imbalance.
Really glad I found this thread….
Hi All, Really glad I came upon this. I have been taking maca for about 5 months to increase libido. I also have problems with painful periods/pmt etc and thought this was ideal as it would solve all my problems in one go. How wrong I was! Yes it really helped my libido but I feel this was at the expense of everything else. Since about 3 months into taking it my menstrual cycle has taken over my life. My periods are even heavier and far more painful than they were (and not responding to painkillers like they used to) and then my pmt seems to begin from about day 14 and continue until my period again but is worse than it ever has been in 15 years! Also I have the WORST breast pains that start right from ovulation and get steadily worse until start of period. I never had all of this before. I had PMT for 4/5 days before period but nothing in that league and I had slight breast pain but again nothing compared to this. I have now totally stopped taking maca!! I was probably taking far too much but I am now scared to take it at all and hope my body will go back to normal but dont know how long this will take.
Thanks for your response Timothy that really answers my question. I had been wondering when I was taking maca what everyone was raving about energy-wise and re the libido… but yes i had been recommended to get the freeze dried juice and at the time I couldn’t find any, so I got the raw powder… now I see where I went wrong! I might actually try the juiced stuff as I wouldn’t mind experiencing this big burst of energy… and my boyfriend would be happy if my libido increased by any degree… but i will bear what you say in mind and not take it every day.. and I won’t take it after day 14 of my cycle as the breast pain thing was horrendous! thanks again and for all the other comments, I’ve found this site invaluable
Hi everyone just thought I should tell the rest of my story as when I last wrote I was about to try the black root gelatinized maca after taking the NHI pre femessence capsules and having several problems including insomnia even though capsules were taken before 10am everyday. Well I did attempt the black root maca from bonethruthenose.com who I must say are brillant and extremely helpful. I took half a tablespoon on my porridge for 2 days and I began to feel so much anger and rage with worsening insomnia with a racing heart and headaces, breast tenderness. The only benefit was an increased libido! I contacted bonethruthenose who immediately told me to stop taking the black root as I may be sensitive to the alkaloids in the maca, and after a great deal of help from them I realised that this must be the reason I have had so many problems since taking the maca. It was suggested I only consume the white gelatinized maca but with great caution, may I again say how brillant bonethruthenose.com is and they also gave me a full refund even though I had ordered a 1kg bag of the black root maca. Some people can be sensitive to the Alkaloids in Maca if you find coffee keeps you up at night then you may be sensitive also to maca as coffee contains the Alkaloids. I started taking pre femessence NHI back in November 2009 taking the suggested 4 capsules a day, I did find relief from my hot flushes and my mood improved along with my fog brain! but very shortly I started having problems with my sleep and stomach upset so I reduced to 3 capsules broken open on my porridge but this didn’t work so I reduced to finally 1 capsule a day, this however has helped me with my moods slightly and less hot flushes but its no way elliminated my menopausal symptoms but I will say I am less depressed even with one capsule so I am scared to stop taking them as I don’t know what else I can take. Recently I developed very tender painful breasts and just assumed this pain was down to the menopause. I don’t have a gp locally who can help me they just tell me to try HRT and they know nothing about maca or alternative medicine and aren’t interested either, I took a list of symptoms to a local lady doctor and she said THERE’S NO NEED BLURTING OUT ALL THESE SYMPTOMS I CAN ONLY TREAT ONE THING AT A TIME! and so as you can imagine I did not return to this gp but as I live in a small town with only 2 doctors surgeries choice is limited, so I try to treat myself. Anyway to bring you up to date, I have had terrible breast pain and tenderness while taking the maca and have now found a lump in my left breast. I saw a doctor yesterday who has referred me to a specialist and I should be seen within 10days, I am very scared and so so worried but I know I will be seen by the right people as I have chosen a hospital 300 miles away that has a specialist breast unit as the local hospital here is far from good and continues to have ward closures due to norvovirus. I never had breast pain or tenderness on this level before taking the femessence and I didn’t suffer from insomnia either infact it was the opposite I slept for 8 hours plus a night! I just thought the insomnia was due to the menopause but my sleep has improved since reducing the femessence capsules obviously due to my worries right now sleep quality isnt too good. I have been taking one capsule of the pre femessence for a while now but I know I must stop due to having the breast lump and I know my mood will be horrible with depression and more hot flushes but having seen all the problems other ladies are having I thought it best to write my story, it may not be anything to do with the Maca. I know it has helped me greatly especially within the first 4 weeks and my mood is defintely better when taking the femessence but with all the other problems including insomnia I worry what else I may have done to my body!! Just be careful girls!! as I don’t see any men logging in with any problems taking maca, so I assume it effects more women due to our hormones? I will keep my fingers crossed that my breast lump is nothing and I will keep on looking for an alternative treatment for my menopausal symptoms.
Aine,
The raw juice powder is awesome. I myself don’t use more than 1/2 teaspoon, but always adjust to how you feel. 1Kg of that stuff lasts quite awhile. It will certainly enhance the libido substantially. I have gotten mine @ intimaca.com in the past.
If it turns out you are sensitive to raw macas, the best price on gelatinized (black root) is BoneThruTheNose.net. You can get it at intimaca.com also, but BTTN has a more reasonable price.
Lorraine,
I’m sorry to hear about your problems with maca in general. I’ve heard that some people are sensitive to maca like coffee… If I take 6or7 tablespoons of gelatinized I start to get the symptoms you describe there… racing heart, insomnia, headache. With all substances it’s always a matter of quantity. I refer people to BTTN for gelatinized maca because I’ve had very pleasant interactions, they seem to be informative, nice people.
As you are doing already, I would certainly see a doctor about any breast lump. I do know that maca itself is entirely non-toxic, no carcinogens, nothing that can directly cause breast lumps. My understanding is that these are systemic and form over time (unless it comes from an injury). Maca can affect hormones, though, and in most people this is normalizing effect. I would suggest also that everyone proceed with caution with anything new, start small and see how your body handles it.
One of the biggest factors for the body is stress, stress hormones (cortisol) can cause all sorts of troubles. If you are sensitive to an herb, then it can possibly make stress on the body worse. In your case Lorraine, I would probably avoid coffee, maca, and other energy herbs altogether. It sounds like your body is reacting to unwanted stimulation. There are all sorts of factors with body stress, though, so do what you can sort it out step by step.
I wish you good luck, too. Eat lots of greens, fruits and vegetables. Exercise pushes stress hormones right out, so if you can, that always helps.
Hi Lorraine,
Yes I am not sure who suggested black maca but that is primarily for energy so would have been the worst type for you to take. FYI nearly all maca products on the market have the phenotype combination for men that is why they dont have issues. There are specific types for women which as you have seen work better such as Femmenessence. The issues you are having seem to relate to dose as you are having benefits but also other issues. Something that we have seen which is very beneficial for women taking Femmenessence is supporting their detoxification ie liver and kidneys (Milk thistle, dandelion, pH Quintessence) as this is also important during menopause as well as DIM to help metabolise estrogen properly in the body. Can I suggest you call us on our toll free number and talk to one of our Naturopathic Doctors 888 668 3661 who can give you some help and recommend a doctor in your area.
Regards,
James Frame
CEO Natural Health International
Generally, yes, black maca is energetic. In my experiences I think it really depends on the person. After a few days of taking it, the stimulating, energetic effects subside as the body adjusts. Maca is generally like this, which is why for energy purposes it has to be cycled. The body quickly builds a tolerance to the energy aspect. I use it every day, and the energetic effect for me is small. Some females I know swear by the strength of the black maca, or by that of the freeze-dried raw juices, to help their menopausal symptoms. They require something strong, and these macas are the only thing that works for them. It depends on the person, at least IME.
James makes an -excellent- recommendation about the liver supplements. Metabolism is very important aspect of hormonal regulation.
Claire,
Not sure why your comments didn’t post here, but I did receive it -
Raw maca “powder” = maca flour unless marked otherwise. It’s basically ground, dry maca. It doesn’t take very long to cook maca properly, just a few minutes. Goitrogens should be destroyed quickly by heat – the maca will become less bitter. You can try different methods – I am accustomed to adding it to breads (even pancakes / waffles in the morning). Whatever ideas you have for cooking it may be better than any I have.
Hi everybody.
My husband and I take about 2 tablespoons of Maca daily and we only use Maca from a reputable source – no capsules. Or of you have a great maca in capsules, open the capsules and sprinkle it your water. Check out http://www.sunfood.com for the Healthforce Nutritionals Maca Force or get pure, organic maca powder without anything else in it.
I take so much for fertility reasons (it’s helped so many people). I haven’t had any symptoms at all, but I do take it with water and on an empty stomach and wait an hour to eat/drink anything else. (I think 1 teaspoon – 1 tablespoon daily is fine. Try it on an empty stomach and wait to eat anything for an hour.)
Perhaps some people are just mixing too many fruits/vegetables and food right away and are having symptoms from a poor combination.
Maca is not a supplement – it is a food. Try it in pure filtered water and see if you have any luck.
I wish you all good health and please stop taking anything that is making you miserable – the key is to feel good (sometimes detox does happen so patience may be needed).
HI,
I note some of the comments on here regarding taking of maca so thought I would share my experience. I came across Joyvit selling maca on the internet whilst looking for something natural to help with menopause symptoms. The worst of it was hot flushes and lack of energy. I read up on Maca and thought it was worth a try. I started with four capsules a day and within a matter of days the flushes had stopped altogether and I had so much more energy. I am now on my second bottle and have reduced the dose to three a day and am still fine. I acknowledge that care must be taken when taking natural things not prescribed but for me it has been a miracle cure.
Having grown and used maca for many years, I can say with some certainty that taking maca in water is a particularly disgusting way to eat maca, especially for the uninitiated… One of maca’s best aspects is the flavor mixing – coffee, chocolate, fruit, honey etc. Mixing raw maca with plain water is a sure way to gross people out, especially in larger therapeutic amounts. Using raw maca powder, 2 tablespoons is a relatively small amount. For instance, I often eat 1/2 a cup of maca flour in some cooking / baking uses.
As for “reputable sources” – I have to consider such claims to be a matter of opinion. If a person has a good experience, likes the people they interact with, or perhaps even represents the company(s) they mention, then to them it’s obviously “reputable source.” In my experience, every single maca supplier you encounter, if asked, will have a litany of praise for their own maca source as being “pure” or “non-contaminated” or “non-irridiated” “organic” and so on, compared to everybody else’s maca. Always take such claims with a grain of salt.
Indeed I am familair with ‘Sunfood Nutrition’ = David Wolfe’s products. He is a raw-foodist and recommends that people eat the “raw” maca flour (he markets the red-root maca). However, as has been delineated thoroughly above, raw maca powder/flour is in fact the form that is least suitable for general, widespread consumption. Raw consumption is the main reason why people are having bad experiences with maca in the first place.
I read that raw maca has anti-hormones and digestive suppressants, Peruvians always had it cooked. Rats taking raw maca had lower birth weight…
Yes. Maca is always cooked in Peru. Cooking concentraers/enhances the effects, and makes it digestible. It is a wonderful food when used correctly.
What has been happening is that companies are buying the raw “maca flour” (harina de maca), a very inexpensive provincial commodity, re-packaging and selling it with all the claims of “traditional therapeutic use.” Raw-food enthusiasts are particular culprits of this practice. Doing so, they make 6-10X back what they pay for the maca in the first place. This type of price-gouging is one reason why the “health food” industry has suffered little during the economic recession. Herbs like Maca can be huge, huge money-makers for anyone involved. (Acai berry is an even bigger goldmine – Brazil has 1,000,000 Kg surplusses every season…)
It is sad, to me, because it all ends up hurting the image of a powerful, effective food (Maca). People get weak products, have bad experiences, all because of a basic lack of knowledge of the herb’s traditional uses. So, I encourage everyone to take marketing aqnd pricing with a grain of salt, learn where herbs/plants come from.
I use maca to mitigate my ADHD sintoms but I noticed that my pennis growed 2 inches since I bought it 4 weeks ago.. this is great.. my ADHD is not as bad as it was, i do not have anxiety problems anymore and my I can focus in college.
my girlfriend is loving it too
Mitigating ADHD and focus issues is one of the most underemphasized aspects of maca. It can be VERY effective for this purpose. Green juices – spirulina, wheat, oat, or barleygrass (freeze-dried) – are a prerequisaite for any focus issues. If you use the green juices alongside maca, the results for focus are amazing. I would highly recommend this combination to anyone with serious focus issues. I use Garden Of Life “Perfect Food” with the gelatinized black maca, and it makes a world of difference for both mood and focus.
As far as the phallic extension… that’s been reported by others as well (anecdotally), but it’s certainly not a typical result (despite optimistic advertising)…
Is maca similar to an herbal adaptogen, in that it balances an imbalance or depletion/deficiency in hormones, adrenal function, thyroid function, etc? (As opposed to *only* being suitable for a certain kind of action, i.e. increasing progesterone, or suppressing thyroid activity in hyperthyroidism, etc). For some people, would it be a more natural way to balance estrogen to progesterone ratio than, say, oral or topical natural progesterone? So if someone has too much estrogen and/or is not making enough progesterone anymore, maca can act to balance that; or vice versa, if someone is low on estrogen, it can bolster that hormone production to more optimal levels?
My understanding is that maca “balances” hormones by providing the building blocks for the body to naturally rebalance itself. Here’s an encyclopedia entry from an herbal research project:
http://www.rain-tree.com/maca.htm
It seems to provide the information you are looking for.
- Timothy
Thanks, that was a helpful link! Here’s relevant info from the article in case anyone else had the same question I had and wants the “cliff notes”:
“Other benefits and anecdotal reports touting maca for hormonal balancing, endocrine and thyroid function enhancement, and even immune system enhancement are likely related to maca’s amino acid and nutrient content as well. The endocrine system drives many functions in the body, including the production of many types of hormones (which, in turn, regulate many other bodily processes). Although hormones are chemically diverse, they are constructed simply from amino acids and cholesterol. If given sufficient levels of starting materials (natural amino acids), the body may use them as needed to construct hormones which keep the body in balance. Where diet and nutrition are poor (a common problem in the Andes, home to so few green, leafy vegetables), maca is a vital part of the diet – providing the necessary nutrients to keep the body healthy and functioning efficiently.”
—
I noticed it talked of how the Andes people have little access to green, leafy vegetables….makes me wonder (anecdotally) if that’s a relevant cause for hormonal dysfunction in those of us who have access to leafy greens….but just don’t eat enough of them!
Thanks again, Timothy –
~Claire
By the way, I also was interested to see by exactly what mechanism the maca improves libido, and it is by histadine, which the body converts to histamine.
“The amino acid histidine also is found in maca root in high amounts. This amino acid plays an often-overlooked but important role in sexual function: during ejaculation and orgasm. The body utilizes histidine to produce histamine, and histamine in the corpus cavernosum (penile erectile tissue) ultimately is responsible for the way ejaculations happen.”
There is medical evidence that some people are predisposed to produce higher levels of histamine naturally than others (google “high histamine”)…these are often the high energy, high achieving types but high histamine can also be associated with rage, short temper, etc. Something that might be of interest to those who have had an adverse effect related to their moods while on maca. As Timothy and others have suggested, maca will interact uniquely with each individual; suits some, not others. In the case of getting extra “histadine” which your body will convert, there may then be some point to being judicious in how much you take each time. Some may have a predisposition toward higher histamine expression anyway, and then when on too much maca (for them), it makes them feel irritable, angry, snappish, tense.
Just my theory; thought it was interesting. The libido effect comes from the histadine, and does not improve libido by directly raising testosterone levels…..(this is in the article link from Timothy)….
~Claire
I was on Yaz for 4 years. I am 34 and went off Yaz in Sept 09 to try to concceive. Since I have had one real period. All my bloodwork and ultrasound of ovaries came back normal EXCEPT my estrogen very low. Dr wanted me to go have it done again today. HE said if still low I need to have MRI to make sure a tumor isn’t creating this problem. I wonder if it is because I had bulimia for many years. I began taking maca today and I am waiting a few weeks to have the bloodwork done. Hopefully there will be good changes. I am so depressed.
also my other bloodwork in regards to hormones was normal…just the low estrogen
I just want to thank everyone for writing down their experiences which have been so helpful for me. I tried Navitas RAW Maca BEFORE reading this and broke out in hives on the second day. I only took 1/2 tsp day one and 1/4 tsp days 2 and 3 then had to stop due to the allergic reaction. I just ordered Whole World Botanicals Maca (gelatinized/pre-cooked) for Women with DIM (due to a family history of breast cancer). I hope it works! If I am relieved of lifelong hormonal imbalance after having tried everything under the sun EXCEPT HRT I will try to remember to come back here and post it’s success. I did lots of research on the RAW Maca and it appears to be a definite no no. If you go to http://www.wholeworldbotanicals.com/royalMacaDiffernce.html you can read all about Maca. I am not recommending the product because I haven’t used it yet and I can warn you now their customer service is pretty bad which is not a good start. I hope the hives go away before it arrives in the mail ’cause I wanna start right away!
Hi
I’m going through my menopause and I don’t want to go through the HRT route. So after hours searching the net I came across this products that apparantely hlp with irritability, memory problems – the Etherium products, Marine phytoplanktons, Krill oil and of course Maca. The article above was written in 2008. I just wonder if there is any update on Maca, and also if you know anything about the products mentioned. You call people up but no one wants to discuss them!!! Thanks
Hi,
Not sure if you are addressing someone in particular or anyone who will answer. Here’s my update on maca: After almost 2 weeks on 1 capsule per day of Royal Maca (even skipped 2 days) I ended up with hives again, it just took longer with the gelatinized vs the raw (or maybe it was a smaller amount). It is an unusual reaction for me. I know nothing about the Krill oil or phytoplanktons though recall reading something somewhere of a possible benefit. I’m discouraged and tired of trying to find a solution and of the time-consuming research and of spending thousands of dollars on remedies that don’t work. The only thing that ever worked for balancing the hormones was a very very strict nutritional regimen coupled with moderate exercise and lots of purified water with a few supplements (veggie green drinks) that worked for me. I just couldn’t live like that for more than a few months at a time but they were the best months as far as balanced hormones, balanced mood, and a “normal” life. The Maca did nothing for me regarding mood, in fact, it seemed to make matters worse for me after time. Maybe that was part of the balancing out but it almost sent me over the edge. I think I’m going to stop experimenting with anything for awhile because nothing seems to work and always seems to make it worse. I wish I had good news with my Maca experiment; the disappointment is much worse when your hopes are high. Maybe I will just have to live with a severely restricted diet and lifestyle for the rest of my life; at least that works.
Hi Dawn/Maggs
I too have given up with taking the Maca I tried all cooked/raw black root/gelatinized etc and I had similar symptoms to you dawn and infact my moods got worse with terrible insomnia, I am short on time so I will keep it brief, please have a look at http://www.scandacare.com the natural herbal product menocool. Scandacare are product researcers,developers and specialist distributors. In short they search the world looking for products that offer safe,natural and non surgical solutions. When they find a product they learn everything about them rigorously check their safety and test that that do exactly what they say, if the product doesn’t meet these requirements they are not distributed by scandacare. The information on Menocool at scandacare is current scientific opinion of many independent pharmacists,bio chemists and herbalists. I am in the UK and scandacare supply and deliver to me here in the Uk for overseas enquires please phone or email info@scandacare.co.uk I am giving this information so that you may try this product as I know how awful the menopausal symptoms are I was a victim of a hit and run accident and 2 years later at 44 along with other health problems I found out I was at the start of the menopause night sweats, hot flushes, tiredness with brain fog, terrible mood swings and depression along with terrible insomnia and hair loss.
I have tried lots of different remedies and vitamins as I too didn’t want to take HRT and I nearly did start HRT after my Maca experience( I have the presciption from my doctor unopened) but I fell upon an ad in Readers Digest offering a solution to the menopause free!!
I rang scandacare and answered a few questions and within a week my tablets were delivered FREE. All that the company ask is that, if you have a positive experience with the tablets that you order at a reduced cost of £19.99 per month for 60 tablets and tell your friends/gp about your experience! But you are given the 60 tablets free to try first!!! which I think is brillant as I have spent a fortune on trying different remedies. I started my menocool 6th May and within my first two weeks my sweats are almost gone along with my hot flushes although I still get the odd one now and then but I am told the full effects are felt after 1 mth and I have only been taking the tablets for 2 weeks! my mood is better and I am sleeping better also I have noticed I am not losing so much hair! which is brillant no hairs on my pillow when I wake up and not plugs full after washing my hair! All in all I think its a good product without any harmful ingredients. I wish I could scan the ingredients off the box so you could all read it but unfortunately I can’t. It is a food supplement containing HOPS,DIETARY FIBRE,BUCKWHEAT,BLACK OATS,MALT,RYE,BARLEY,WHEAT,MAIZE,COLLOIDAL SILCA,NATURAL ISOFLAVON COMPLEX,VEGATABLE MAGNESIUM,STERATE. I have a wheat intollerance and I have no problems after taking my tablets. I started with 3 a day for 7 days and then reduced to 2 a day, I think the maintenence dose is one a day but I won’t be on maintenence for a while I don’t think. I know how frightning HRT seems with its side effects with its added risk of cancer due to taking for longer than 2 years, its worth trying to protecting yourself as much as possible thats why I am trying natural remedies and hopefully I won’t need to start HRT. Good Luck to you both, I hope this information helps. I know I have had a positive response to Menocool and I hope you do too!!
Sincerely
Lorraine
Sorry guys that you’re not too happy with this product. It’s so disappointing that there are all these health sites promoting products that promises heaven and earth, when they don’t do such thing!! However, products on Scandacare look interesting. I’ll give it a try and let you know how I got on. Thanks
In some people, it’s hard to tell what the overlap is between their original complaint/symptoms and the effects/side effects of a supplement. That’s why there are statistical studies and research.
For me, Maca GO has presented enough stats/studies to prove that it works, and with minimal side effects.
For menopausal women who are having horrendous times, there is only synthetic HRT or bio-identical HRT. The synthetics have side effects and longer term effects and the bio-identicals are still at an early stage of study to determine if they really are safer. Black cohosh and red clover are great early on and if your symptoms are milder.
I also think there are great variables within Maca products, such as type, manufacterer/grade and dose.
But, for many women, Maca GO is a great alternative, effective and without major side effects. Please don’t throw the baby out with the bath water.
Be very careful with the maca. I am taking thyroid medication, and no one warned me about taking the two together. It upset my whole metabolic system with tremors, sweats, nausea, trembling, fast heart rate, I couldn’t think, I was hypoglycemic and felt awful. I have stopped taking it for over a week and still feel the effects. So check with your doctor or pharmacist, the health food people are good they just don’t know about the prescription drug interactions.
Maca is cruciferoous, very rich in goitrogens, much like raw broccoli or raw turnips. People with thyroid issues should never consume raw macas. Cooked or gelatinized maca should be ok (since heat destroys goitrogens), however one should always proceed with caution, if at all.
Unfortunately, since raw maca is a cheap commodity, it is also the predominant whole food form of it. Peruvians never eat it raw. It’s a baking / cooking flour.
Thanks Lorraine for your recommendation. I STILL have the hives from the Maca so I’m not willing to entertain the idea of another remedy at this point. I’m also not menopausal, as I’m only 41. I’ve had the same hormonal issues since about age 16. I did the saliva testing through Sabre Sciences and had natural cremes designed specifically for my body’s needs and it threw me into a tailspin. The Maca is the second worst thing I’ve tried for the hormones, as I don’t recall having hives before. I personally think my body responded to the Maca like a previous response to poison oak; the first contact with the raw Maca gave me the hives, then the second contact (gelatinized) made it worse, a cumulative effect.
In response to Nan’s comments, I have read that the “statistical studies and research” on Maca are only conducted/funded by the companies who are marketing/promoting/selling the Maca; there don’t seem to be independent studies from non-biased parties. Maca was originally promoted as the new Viagra and when that didn’t work as promised they changed their target to hormonal issues (from what I’ve read). Maybe we are all a part of their research. All I know for sure is that it didn’t work for me for hormonal balance (maybe I didn’t take it long enough) and caused an allergic reaction. I will give it one positive, though, it did appear to increase the libido but since I have no boyfriend/husband at the moment it was a wasted benefit for me. I think each person’s body responds differently to everything. My recommendation is if you want to try (gelatinized) Maca (from a reputable company) just pay close attention to what your body is telling you and if there are any negative changes whatsoever consider the possibility that they are a result of the Maca and stop immediately. Don’t make any other changes in your diet or lifestyle so you can isolate it to the supplement.
Maca certainly isn’t a panacea, though they often try to market it as such. I’m trying to think of everything I’ve seem maca marketed for – let’s see – libido, hormones, muscle mass, dieting, energy, focus, adrenal support, endurance, bone density, blood tonic, hair & nails, prostate health (only in red maca)… there are so many claims being made about maca.
Yes, indeed maca “science” is often conducted and or cherry-picked by people with interests in selling and distributing maca. This is kind of a routine in the “health food” industry. Only a relative handful of herbs have genuine, peer-reviewed science to back them up (Kava, or Turmeric for instance). A lot herbal product marketing is basically just compiled anecdotes, supplemented by cherry-picked science. Maca seems caught in limbo. The only peer-review science I recall seeing are for a lab-confirmed increase in libido. (I’m looking for the studies right now). There’s certainly a lot of conversation and marketing for the hormonal treatment properties.
Speaking of anecdotes – I have had a generally positive with the black gelatinized, and a few other forms. Definitely an herb that works well with me, hence my enthusiasm for it. I have noticed far more positive responses to it when people use suitable forms (there are lots of reactions to raw maca, on top of it being over-priced).
Most companies go for the image of reputation, fancy web pages, etc. With any herbal product, I always try to find people who are honest, straightforward, informative. I have had some negative interactions with many large maca retailers, and with some small ones. It’s a gamble sometimes.
Timothy, thank you for your in depth answers and your willingness to share your knowledge. Maca was recommened to me by a work collegue and I feel confident now in going out to source it. Thanks again
As far as NHI’s statistics being “their own,” regarding their Maca GO brand. Well, many companies, including the drug companies, have their own stats on their own products. Whether or not they’re skewed, well, probably every stat is skewed for every product on the market. How much, who really knows? What is objective research–everything is seen through our own (and researchers’) lenses. And, biases.
And every thing you buy has some risk–dairy, sugar, meat, additives, artificial this and that. It’s endless. Ibuprofen can cause GI bleeding in some, aspirin tinnitus.
For prescription drugs, look in the PDR, endless paragraphs of endless side effects and contraindications. Pages and pages for 1 drug.
You can’t watch TV without looking at men wanting to get their erection problems cured (now, with hearing loss as a new side effect), cures for “acid reflux” (with bone problems as a side effect). Every drug, every substance can have potential problems. Even air itself can produce allergies in people.
It’s just looking at your own constitution and seeing what’s a good match for you.
I’ve looked at menopausal symptoms from my own view and if you look at synthetic hormones, the side effects can be alarming, and it’s a crap shoot what’ll work or won’t, how much to take, etc. The bio-identicals are user friendly and much easier on your body–but they’re still exogenous and can and do cause side effects. Look at the research for them–they lump them in with the synthetics, which isn’t accurate, and the ones promoting them are all the compounding pharmacies or the naturopaths selling them.
Maca is a good alternative for menopause versus the other alternatives that are not great to bad.
Sue,
You are welcome, I try to share everything I’ve learned these many years taking maca.
Nan, I agree completely.
Wow, I just found this page. Never knew Maca can effect people differently. I was doing a search on possible side effects of Maca since I started taking it almost two weeks ago. I have noticed feeling basically lethargic after taking it, sometimes it seems I get a migraine a few hours later but that could be from a food trigger to. I got it from a nearby health/organic store and the lady who worked there told me to start out with a very small amount and see how I am with it.-1/6 tsp-which I have not yet increased. The brand I got is whole world botanicals royal maca, says it is sun dried gelatinized concentrate. The reason I am trying it is because of learning that it helps balance hormones, gives energy, libido…but mostly the hormone balance because I have gotten migraines since childhood, and now are mainly brought on with my cycle. I am also changing my diet to eat more fresh foods-cut out any preservatives. Does anybody find that it can make any kind of difference to mix it in a shake or with food at all? So what I am really curious about is could the lethargy and migraine I’m experiencing be a syptom of my system detoxing with the maca, or could it be that it is not agreeing with me. I would like to continue with it and see if I can get some benefit but right now I am comcerned that something is going on that is not so good. Anybody have experience with this, or suggestions? By the way, great posts everybody!
Okay, let me share something very interesting that may apply to someone else who stumbles across this forum. For me, my experience with maca and subsequent hives was a blessing in disguise because I’ve been trying for many years to figure out what has been going on with me and why my hormones were so out of whack (which is why I took the maca in the first place). I researched day and night for 3 days straight (after my hives) and came up with this: chronic dehydration leading to histamine intolerance. Maca has histadine which converts to histamine which is already in the body in excess if the body is dehydrated. Read “Your Body’s Many Cries For Water” or look up the website watercure.com. When I introduced more histamine (maca) I ended up with an allergic reaction: hives. Interesting to note that I can tolerate another product well (Amazing Grass Green Superfood) which has some maca in it with no problems so maybe it’s in combination with other green supplements or because I drink it with a full glass of water. From what I understand dehydration is responsible for loss of energy, hormonal imbalance and lack of libido (and a million other ailments including headaches) in the first place so maybe all we need is water (don’t forget the electrolytes, especially sodium/water balance) and not the maca at all. I hope this helps someone else ’cause it was a blessing for me.
Dawn,
I was reading and I think perhaps the answer as to why you can take the “Amazing Grass” product is probably just a matter of concentration. There isn’t much maca in it – less than 500mg of the raw flour (that’s about 1/10th of a teaspoon). L-histidine is one of the predominant aminos in maca, but the dilute amounts in the Amazing Grass product probably don’t amount to an overabundance.
I myself use the GOL “Perfect Food” product for greens.
Fran, I’m 43, with two children and two previous miscarriages. Since the birth of my second child two years ago, my periods have been totally out of whack, ie.. been three months since my last menses. I really want to get pregnant again. How much would you recommend that I take? Thanks again.
Timothy,
You might be right about the concentration of maca.
I was taking Perfect Food for one year while on a vegan diet and took a blood test and was deficient in many minerals. I have tried almost all of GOL’s supplements with no success at all but I know others swear by them. Maybe it’s a malabsorption issue which is related to the dehydration. When I’m fully hydrated I might try GOL again. I believe some of their products go through a fermentation process and people with histamine intolerance are suppose to stay away from anything fermented.
Hopefully I won’t need to try the maca again because I have hope of balancing the hormones through hydration and electrolyte balance.
Thank you for the wealth of information in your postings.
Timothy,
I am hypo-thyroid and have been having fertility problems such as a low egg count. I have been researching this product all week to help with my low egg count along with my symptoms of low energy and weight gain due to my thyroid. Do you suggest the gelatinized capsules or the gelatinized powder? Thanks for posting so much and informing us all about this product. Also could you suggest a website on where to purchase this? Thanks again.
Fran, I came across this by chance, as I had recently started taking Maca. I wanted to see what there was on the internet regarding side effects.
You say that you’re trying to deal with a skin problem. I would like to share with you my my own skin problem and the remedy I found for it.
I had a pretty bad skin problem that was constantly dry skin. After taking a shower, within 30 minutes, my forearms would begin to flake. My legs were just as bad.
I’ve actually had this for a number of years. (I honestly can’t remember when it started. Somewhere in my late teens to early 20’s.) I more or less stumbled across a remedy by researching workout supplements and routines.
My skin began clearing up immediately after taking high doses of magnesium. It’s a critical mineral for building muscle. I was taking from 400-750mg a day. My skin does not flake any longer. I feel great as a result, too, because I was always self conscious about it.
Look into it, and talk with your doc about it. 400mg is normal. If you take more than that, spread it out through the day. If you take too much, you’ll know by having soft stool or diarrhea. There are many forms that you can take, and you can also combine it with magnesium chloride flakes for bath soaking (or foot baths). The transdermal absorption of magnesium does not affect your digestive system adversely like pills.
As for the Maca, I have noticed that I do not suffer from fatigue at the end of my work day. I can go home and still feel up for doing anything.
Hi all,
l have a wife ,low on energy, sleeps 12 hours a day if she can, and has low labido.
l am the opposite, sleep 5 hours heaps of energy, average labido.
We will both start taking Maca poder 1 tsp a day on food after tomorrow and will keep you posted on any major changes and results.
My wifes cycle was irregular from 19 to 21 days only with pre menstral mood swings [off in own world, with no sharing and switching off completely for 2 days ].
Now been on wild yam cream nearly 3 months for oestrogen level balance, and from first month, has 26 to 28 day cycle for the first time since l have known her [5 years now]
l started today on dose 1teaspoon a day in cooked food.
My wife won’t start for another 7 days till her cycle starts again on day 1.
i have the whole world botanics MACA with DIM because I dont get periods due to low estrogen. I have only been on them for 3 weeks so lets hope I get a period. But my question is,
I dont digest capsules so I started opening them and pouring the powder in my mouth. But the next day i got all itchy. Anyone know why?
Maybe you are dehydrated like me. Check out the book Your Body’s Many Cries For Water or go to this website:
http://www.watercure.com/faq.html. It sounds like an allergic reaction, like I had, which is due to histamine release and histamine is the water regulator of the body that kicks in when you are dehydrated. I’m not a dr but I’ve spent sooooooo long studying health and nutrition and this is the only thing that addresses the ROOT of almost all problems and doesn’t just target the symptoms and makes logical sense when you understand the body and it’s basic requirements. Save yourself 20 years of suffering and check out the website just in case it applies to you and experiment for fun. Try drinking the recommended amount of water per day or 1/2 your body weight in ounces and see if the itching goes away. Remember it takes time for your body to rehydrate. Anything that causes an allergic reaction should be stopped or taken in smaller doses (preferably stopped). I was on the same maca and ended up with hives after the itching. Don’t scratch, get some cortisone for topical application. If you scratch you might get hives. Call the company and ask their rep. for advice. She wasn’t in town for one month when I had my problems with it but maybe she’s back. Good luck and hope this helps. By the way, the book I recommended explains malabsorption issues, hormonal imbalance, and allergies, all of which you mentioned, in relationship to dehydration. If this helps you, please leave some feedback so others may benefit.
Im a 26 year old female . I have tmj and a bulged disk in my neck at the moment. I also have really bad heart burn and gas i guess. It started getting worst with all the tmj stuff. Im taking a 1multi vite..1vite-c..1flax oil…and just a pinch of maca powder a day in food. Do you think thats ok?
to Ava #242
Have you tried wild yam cream to rectify hormone imbalance you may have?. My wifes periods went from 19-21 days average to 26-27 the first three months on that starting 27-26-27 to this the third month. May help rectify moods as well.
supplies natural Estrogen Ava
thanks everyone. I got some cortizone and it helped. I emailed the company too but havent heard back yet but will update you.
hoepfully I will get my period soon! fingers crossed
I been on Maca now [ref post 6/16/10] for a few weeks and don’t notice any difference really, but there again , l have energy already.
My wife has just started, and l will keep you posted.
l found a good way to take it cooked as the puruvians do in porridge, but l simmer a bit by self in good water and add it to my favourite smoothie fruit whips. Can’t notice the taste then.
Andy
we both gave it up as both of us got headaches and it could have been the powder helping it on as mine was the second in 3 weeks and last for 3 days [light migraine l do get every so often about 2 monthly av.
Didn’t make me more sexy either but only 1 tsp a day. Might give it a miss folks
Hi everyone,
I’ve been taking Macafem brand 500mg tablets twice per day for 4 weeks. The suggested dosage was 3 times per day but I decided to start a bit lower and increase or decrease if necessary/possible.
I have been having some good, as well as some confusing symptoms lately.
I started maca because I was going off birth control (which was preventing PMS symptoms) and wanted something natural to help with the symptoms instead, mostly moodiness (excessive laughter one day changing to excessive crying the next few – not a rollercoaster I want to ride every month, or put my guy through).
At this point in time my period is over 2 weeks late and this site is the only one that mentions this as a possible side affect of maca. Along with the emotional sensitivity I’ve been experiencing (crying, irritability), mild nausea after some meals, mild stomach cramps and diarrhea, until I read this site I was convinced my boyfriend’s vasectomy had sprung a leak! And to our surprise we were actually happy about that possibility!
I took a pregnancy test a week ago and it was negative. I was going to make a doctor’s appointment this week just to make sure, and because of the symptoms I’ve been having. I really didn’t think the maca could be responsible for everything that I’ve been experiencing, but everyone’s comments here have started to change my mind.
On the up side, my emotional sensitivity seems to be evening out now and I feel really good in a slightly different way than usual that I can’t really put my finger on. Again, I was leaning towards thinking that was a sign I was pregnant, but after reading everything, it seems more plausible that it’s the maca (should we reverse the vasectomy after all?! He had it done long before we met).
So, bottom line, I wasn’t crazy about the moodiness of the last few weeks (and my boyfriend was put through the ringer!), but I think that has lifted. The stomach cramps and nausea have been mild and not a big concern. I will likely go to the doctor just to confirm everything. I may also reduce the maca to one tablet and see how that goes, or leave it the same as long as my emotions are stable.
Thanks for having this information available! It’s a bit interesting not knowing what is happening with your body, so it’s nice to find info that helps solve the mystery!
I will post again if it does turn out I’m pregnant, but at this point, I don’t think that anymore. And I’m fine with being late!
Take care everyone,
~ Julie
hi there, this response is directed at timothy.
Sorry to assume your help but you do really seem the most knowledgeable and unbiased individual on the net on the subject of maca! But please anybody respond.
I’m a twenty year old male, and up to this point since the age of 7, I have been diagnosed with ADHD, asperger’s syndrome, depression, and personally it has always just felt to me like confusion, fatigue, and the inabiity to think/exist in more than a very basic way.
It’s been very frustrating as I’ve had occasional patches of slightly better brain function, allowing me to reflect back on my life- very empty.
I was wondering if you feel that this mental state could be improved by maca? ive been taking it for a few days and have felt more content and operational but i still really do want to eliminate this helpless feeling of running underwater with regards to the most basic brain function, eg: maintaining continuous thought of a task for more than minutes. (took me 3 days to read all these posts)
Looking into adaptogens, it all sounds very encouraging! i have ordered hemp & chia seeds, maca & wheatgrass in the hopes of blasting away my brain fog, superfood-smoothie style. will give updates, thanks for reading.
Any advice? dosages, combinations etc. Also my penis is bigger but that’s the last thing i could care about right now.
Hi Christer,
I’m only responding because I started my journey at about your age and am now almost 42. I have done extensive research and cannot say I have all the answers, but…what I do believe is that no one supplement is going to heal you. From my reading, and yes, with every piece of reading material you will find conflicting material, the body is able to heal itself if given the proper tools. The body works as a whole, and when something is missing, each part of the body responds differently, as the missing component affects each part of the body differently, so you may have different bodily responses at various times in your life depending on the type/length of deficiency(ies). The tools to help the body are: healthy, nutritious diet, unpolluted water (and unrefined sea salt like Himalayan sea salt), sufficient sleep, daily exercise, reduced environmental and life stressors. You should see a drastic difference in your brain fog if you change your diet (and drink water), leaning towards a more vegetarian or macrobiotic diet, at least at first. Then, you can slowly introduce new food items and see how your body responds. I am reading The China Study now (check the reviews on Amazon.com) and cannot recommend Your Body’s Many Cries For Water enough. The M.D. who wrote that book says all the things you mentioned come from lack of sufficient water to allow your body to function properly. Try drinking 1/2 your body weight in ounces of water, and eat lots of varied fruit and veggies, maybe some BROWN rice, and see if you don’t feel better quickly. You must listen to your body and see how you feel. NO SUGAR, and NO CAFFEINE, and no drinks other than water. If you want to take nutritional supps, look at whole food supplements like you are doing with the maca, not synthetic supplements. Remember, maca is a food, and you should be able to heal yourself with food, as bad food was probably a contributing factor that got you in the predicament that you’re in in the first place. I wish you the best of luck and hope you find wellness. Being unhealthy can change the entire direction of your life. You are still young enough to figure it out. Your body is trying to tell you something, always listen. Do not disguise the symptoms, get to the ROOT of the problem.
[...] syrup [or you could use honey] ► good pinch salt ► 1 heaped tbsp maca powder [Maca Magic and Fran's experience give more information and different viewpoints on this supplement/superfood] ► 120g cacao powder [...]
Hi everyone. From what I understand, and have experienced, Maca should never be eaten raw. The native people of Peru always ingest it cooked, primarily using it as flour, and don’t eat the enormous amounts that some websites would have you believe. Raw maca can cause great gastric distress and enormous amounts would have to be taken to achieve any of its intended effects. There are a few very reputable companies that sell maca cooked, or “gelatinized” which is essentially bringing the raw powder to it’s intended disgestable, flour-like state. The amount taken would be low, maybe 2 capsules a day, as in it’s cooked form it is far more potent. Raw powder can bring a whole host of problems — fungi, yeast, etc. — that no one wants. To really experience maca, you could try a site like Royal Maca, which I find wonderful, or raw food sites and/or cooking sites that sell maca flour as opposed to raw maca. Hope this helps.
I bought Maca root powder from Z Natural Foods. I used a quick cap gizmo, size 00 and made my own caps. I have extreme hormone imbalances, (too much testosterone) PCOS, and hypothyroidism, and well as PMDD. I take Moringa twice daily, and Chaste Berry (vitex) during days 1-14 of my cycle along with 2 tabs of Trace Minerals.
Two Maca Cap’s daily (one am and one pm) was too much for me. Mood changes, and all the other things other people have said and more began to happen. This stuff is powerful. I can only tolerate one cap in the morning, taken four hours after anything else, and with food. By dosing this way, I have no side effects, but great results! All the benefit’s that people talk about having on Maca, I can achieve this way and this way only. I will continue to monitor as I get past day 14 of my cycle to see if this changes. But so far I have lost 10 pounds, and my skin is clearing up and I am a happy girl.
I had ordered whole Maca Root powder from Herbs America. The dosage said to take 1/2 to 1 teas. daily.
After reading these articles. I took 1/8 of teas. and mixed it with my pancake batter then cooked them. That night I came down with 102 degree fever,. The next night it came down to 100.6 and stayed there. I took it last Monday morning and finally felt better this morning(Fri, no fever). That was the only symptom I had. Has anyone else had this reaction or heard of this before, or is this just some kind of crazy coincidence?
I started taking Maca caps from Femessence 5 weeks ago. I started taking it for estrogen dominance/high testosterone levels. I am 44. I started with 2 caps. Week one was great ,felt great. Week 2 the acne started. My period was a week late. But felt awesome! Week five on 2 caps my acne is out of control. Oily skin, huge pimples, itchy skin. I have very congested skin, very odd for me. The people at Natural hi were very supportive and helpful with their suggestions.
I just cannot take the acne! I know there is a process involved in the balancing of hormones. But by week 5, I expected it to be better. The funny thing is I feel great!
Upbeat, positive, calm, balanced. Any thoughts?
Hey, does anyone know if its safe to use both maca root powder and spirulina together? Spirulina is also a herbal super food.
I started with one tablet a day the first few days, to make sure it wouldn’t upset my stomach. I then went to the twice a day remedy. Things were okay for the first few days, but now, it seems that I’m having some kind of adverse reaction.
I should preference this by telling you that I am 36, I occasionally have a few acne breakouts and 2-3 pounds of weight gain the week before my cycle starts. However, this time, I have now gained almost 10 pounds in the past 2 weeks. My entire back is covered in breakouts as well as some acne on my face and neck. I’ve never, including the teen years, had my skin breakout this badly. I also have never weighed as much as I do right now.
In addition, I realized today that I haven’t left my house for 2 days. I didn’t even unlock the front door! It seems that something about the product has spiraled me into the worst PMS I’ve ever encountered. Depression, weight gain, acne …. I have not noticed any of the positive effects I had hoped for – no extra energy either … obviously or I would have probably noticed the front door hasn’t been opened.
The only thing I’ve changed in my life/diet has been the MacaHarmony product. I’ve been taking it for about 2 weeks now.
I’ve contacted the makers of the product to ask them for information or advise.
KLC in around 10% of cases with PMS women will have an adverse effect of a much worse period than normal. Unfortunately in cases like this rebalancing hormones is not pleasant as the body is also detoxing to some extent. In fact one of our doctors experienced this so you are not alone. The upside is that while your first cycle on MacaHarmony is worse than normal, the second period is usually better than normal and in these 10% cases usually by the third you have no symptoms at all as it has corrected the imbalance.
One aspect which is also important is supporting your detoxification. Products like milk thistle, dandelion and one of ours pH Quintessence are a great combo for 6-8 weeks.
Can I suggest contacting our medical team if you have more questions medical.team@naturalhi.com
James Frame
CEO
Natural Health International makers of Femmenessence MacaHarmony
Personally I feel you should stop the product, but that’s just my opinion. IF it is a detox symptom, you are having too strong a reaction and your detox needs to be slower. I am doing The Master Cleanser by Standley Burroughs and it is inexpensive and detoxes the body (colon), not just targeting one issue. The booklet can be found in most health stores and on Amazon, where you can read hundreds of reviews. You can find the info all over the internet, as it’s been around for over 30 years. You need to follow the instructions EXACTLY, so I would recommend reading the book; it’s only $6.50 new in the store. It’s short and easy to follow. I’m beginning to think these supplement companies are similar to drug companies (in fact some of them are). Listen to your body and do what YOU think is best. Maybe you should try an easy body detox and try the Maca after IF you find you still need it. Sounds like you need to ease into a detox program as well so your reaction is less intense. I wish you luck:)
Recently started taking maca tablets, 3 tablets before food. I am going through the menopause and for the first time in ages, my nights sweats were not so bad. Im not saying its because of the tablets as it is early days. However, to go from being constantly dripping wet all night long to being able to sleep for several hours with the quilt on me is quite an achievement. Now I do realise it could be just my body balancing itself out, if so great. In the meantime I will keep trying this medication but giving myself a day off in every 3. Fingers crossed
I have never heard of anyone detoxing from Maca. I have heard of discomfort in the balancing process, of course, but more commonly you hear of adverse reactions in those who have fungal or another type of infections. The adverse reactions would be much like what they call “die-off” from antifungals. This can happen to women who use a good, natural progesterone cream also. A yeast infection, whether it is of the skin, scalp, etc., would thrive on and devour progesterone, leaving the woman feeling wildly estrogenic. So it is usually recommended that any type of this infection be treated first so that the desired product can do it work. Also, I find it curious why that the product is sold the way it is… is there more to it than maca? I really couldn’t find any information on it that wasn’t put out by Femmenessence itself. I do agree with taking a break. And, as I posted earlier, I know two native Peruvians and have a friend who has traveled Peru many times… the native people eat the maca root COOKED, mainly in soups, or use the cooked root as flour for baked goods. They really do not eat the roots raw. So if you do want to try maca again, try the powder, or maybe a gelatinized version that has been through a cooking process to remove starch and impurities. Navitas has both, wonderful products, and there is a company, Royal Maca, that only sells the gelatinized maca, as well as a host of other good companies. And start with a very small amount to see if your body tolerates it. If so, you can always build up a litle each cycle until you feel balanced. Best of luck to you and I hope you start feeling better soon.
Mike, I use Spirulina and Black Gelatinized Maca together. It is perfectly fine, and works great for enhancing focus.
I myself cannot emphasize Diane’s point enough – maca is COOKED in Peru. Raw powders are a baking flour (harina de maca). You have to use the cooked product to glean the most effective benefits. Either bake with the flour/powder, or get a gelatinized product. You will notice a tremendous difference in efficacy.
Thanks timothy. I would also like to know how much of each product to use. Is it still ok to take the recommended dosage of each product? And do you take them at the same time of the day? or separately?
I started royal maca gelatinized powder 2 1/2 months ago. Had some strange lethargic reactions to it at first taking just the smallest recommended dose of 1/6 tsp. I upped to 1/4 tsp two weeks into it, and learned that it helps me most when taken in the morning with food. I find it to be most beneficial as long as I keep my diet as clean as possible as well. I did have early menstruation the second cycle into it so am lowering the dose and only taking it on days 1-14 after learning from the posts that is what women are supposed to do. Will give it more time and see if that’s the trick. But I am enjoying improved mood and think I am noticing fewer hormone related migraines.
I think it is really important to point out that Natural Health International has been working with Maca now since 1999. The head of our research and development is probably one of the top 4 researchers of maca in the world http://www.naturalhi.com/DrMeissner.aspx . We have done more clinical research including pharmacology, toxicology and human double blind placebo cross over clinical trials than any other group in the world on maca http://www.naturalhi.com/Post-Menopause.aspx and we have tens of thousands of patients that our medical team have worked with. And our medical board includes the leading integrative practitioners in women’s health including Dr Tori Hudson http://www.naturalhi.com/MedicalTeam.aspx and recently Dr Christiane Northrup OBGYN included information about Femmenessence in her book so we really do know what we are talking about. In relation to Femmenessence we use a proprietary process which includes the most effective gelatinzation process in Peru making our product 99.9% water soluble. And this is not meant to offend any of the people who offer advice as much of it (especially Timothy) is great but if someone is using our product and having issues I would ideally like them to contact one of our Naturopathic Doctors to discuss what they can do because health is such an integrated complicated issue and as Diane pointed out often involves pre existing issues which need to be addressed before or symultaneously and a Doctor who understand all this, can work with a patient personally getting a full understanding of their health (and how strong Femmenessence is and what it can do versus normal generic maca) is best qualified to help.
medical.team@naturalhi.com
Regards,
James Frame
CEO
Natural Health International
Thanks to all for your comments. I’m concerned about the “detox” comment too. I’ve been told before that my body was simply “detoxing” and would get better. Both times something went very wrong and either I was having an allergic reaction, or as Dawn mentioned, the detox went badly or too quickly. In both cases I kept getting progressively worse and ended up in the ER. So, I get a little concerned when I’m told it’s a detox and that I should keep taking it.
However, I spent a lot of hard earned money buying this product and want to give it a fair chance. I have contacted the medical team and am awaiting their reply.
It is not normal to end up in ER from food unless you are allergic to it. Don’t listen to anyone or anything but your body. If it doesn’t feel right, it isn’t. I would start inquiring about a refund if I were you. I got a refund on my Royal Maca, I think it was 80% back from the original price I paid minus shipping both ways. If you had a reaction that resulted in an ER visit I would not try this product again in any amount. I, like another person who posted a comment, had never heard that maca acts as a detoxifier. I have not researched it since my bad reaction but I researched it during my reaction and didn’t come across that. Do what feels right and makes sense. We are all struggling to help ourselves, and no one has the right answer, and even the right answer for someone else may not be the right answer for your body. I read that we should not be trying to correct ONE problem in the body, that everything is interconnected and if one thing is out of balance, everything is. That’s when I came across the detox-again-and a complete change in diet. I believe that if you aid the body (give it the tools necessary to heal) it can heal itself.
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