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What are the Side Effects of Natrol Maca?

Natrol Maca is the commercial name of a compost made with the root of Maca (Lepidium meyenii), a plant grown in South America. According to the manufacturers, Maca has been used in Peru for its aphrodisiac, energizing and fertility-enhancing properties since ancient times.

Apart from Maca root extract, the compost also contains gelatin, silica and magnesium stearate, according to Health Product Reviews. Although there are no listed side effects to Natrol Maca, it is important to notice that Maca root contains substances called glucosinolates, which can be linked to goiter (swollen thyroid gland), according to eVitamins.com.

  1. Goiter

    • Glucosinolates are found in maca root extract and other plants of the genus Lepidium. According to Sea Coast Vitamins, glucosinolates taken in excess can cause goiter, which is characterized by the enlargement and decreased activity of the thyroid gland.

    Insomnia and Flatulence

    • According to Dr. Ray Sahelian M.D, maca root has few side effects, but if taken in high doses it can cause insomnia. Over-consumption of maca supplements can also induce bloating and flatulence, according to Wellness.com.

    Maca During Pregnancy

    • According to the website eMed TV, an intake of maca from food sources is not a cause for concern for pregnant women, but when used in health supplements, maca components are present in higher concentrations and can be harmful to pregnant women. In fact, there is no scientific research to prove that maca is safe to pregnant or breastfeeding women, according to Wellness.com

    Warning

    • According to Wellness.com, patients with hormone responsive cancers, such as breast or prostate cancer, as well as women taking contraceptive pills, should talk to a doctor before taking Natrol Maca or any other supplement containing maca root, due to the its potential effects on sex hormone regulation.

      Patients with hypertension (high blood pressure) must also use maca supplements under medical supervision, as it can stimulate the central nervous system, according to Wellness.

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