Meta Information
ID:maca-root
Name:
Schema Version:AIM-2.0
Interactions
Target id:
/condition/hormone-sensitive-cancers-and-conditions
Target name:
Hormone-Sensitive Cancers & Conditions
Severity:
major
Interaction type:
adverse
Nature:
absolute
Temporal spacing:
null
Description:
Maca may exhibit estrogen-like activity, which could potentially stimulate the growth of hormone-sensitive tissues or cancers (e.g., breast, uterine, ovarian cancer; endometriosis).
Actionable advice:
Avoid Maca completely if you have a history of hormone-sensitive cancers or conditions.
Target id:
/condition/pregnancy
Target name:
Pregnancy
Severity:
major
Interaction type:
adverse
Nature:
absolute
Temporal spacing:
null
Description:
Due to a lack of safety data and potential hormonal effects, the impact of Maca on fetal development is unknown.
Actionable advice:
Avoid using Maca completely during pregnancy.
Target id:
/condition/lactation
Target name:
Breastfeeding (Lactation)
Severity:
major
Interaction type:
adverse
Nature:
absolute
Temporal spacing:
null
Description:
It is unknown if components of Maca pass into breast milk or what effects they might have on a nursing infant.
Actionable advice:
Avoid using Maca completely while breastfeeding.
Target id:
/condition/thyroid-disorders
Target name:
Thyroid Disorders
Severity:
moderate
Interaction type:
adverse
Nature:
absolute
Temporal spacing:
null
Description:
As a cruciferous vegetable, Maca contains goitrogens, which can interfere with thyroid hormone synthesis, particularly in individuals with iodine deficiency or pre-existing hypothyroidism.
Actionable advice:
Use with caution if you have a thyroid condition and ensure your iodine intake is adequate.
Target id:
/class/antihypertensives
Target name:
Antihypertensive Medications
Severity:
moderate
Interaction type:
adverse
Nature:
absolute
Temporal spacing:
null
Description:
Some evidence suggests Maca may lower blood pressure, potentially leading to an additive effect when combined with antihypertensive drugs, increasing the risk of hypotension (low blood pressure).
Actionable advice:
Monitor your blood pressure closely if you combine Maca with blood pressure-lowering medication.
Target id:
/class/estrogens
Target name:
Estrogens and Progestins (Hormonal Therapy & Contraceptives)
Severity:
moderate
Interaction type:
adverse
Nature:
absolute
Temporal spacing:
null
Description:
Maca's potential estrogenic effects could interfere with the intended action of hormonal therapies or contraceptives, though the clinical significance is not fully established.
Actionable advice:
Discuss with your doctor before combining Maca with any form of hormonal therapy.
Target id:
/circadian/sleep
Target name:
Going to Sleep
Severity:
minor
Interaction type:
adverse
Nature:
temporal
Temporal spacing:
Hours before target:
6
Hours after target:
null
Description:
Maca is often reported to have an energizing or stimulating effect in some individuals, which could potentially interfere with sleep onset.
Actionable advice:
Take Maca in the morning or early afternoon to prevent potential sleep disturbances.
Target id:
/dietary/meal
Target name:
Any Caloric Meal
Severity:
minor
Interaction type:
synergistic
Nature:
temporal
Temporal spacing:
Hours before target:
0
Hours after target:
0
Description:
Consuming Maca with food can help mitigate potential gastrointestinal side effects, such as bloating or upset stomach.
Actionable advice:
Take Maca with a meal to enhance tolerability.
Target id:
/class/anticoagulants-antiplatelets
Target name:
Anticoagulants and Antiplatelets
Severity:
minor
Interaction type:
adverse
Nature:
absolute
Temporal spacing:
null
Description:
Maca contains vitamin K, which plays a role in blood clotting. High doses could theoretically reduce the effectiveness of anticoagulant medications like warfarin.
Actionable advice:
Consult your doctor before using Maca if you take blood-thinning medication.
Target id:
/condition/hepatic-impairment
Target name:
Hepatic Impairment
Severity:
minor
Interaction type:
adverse
Nature:
absolute
Temporal spacing:
null
Description:
The metabolism and safety of many herbal supplements, including Maca, have not been formally studied in people with liver disease.
Actionable advice:
Consult a healthcare provider before using Maca if you have a known liver condition.