A member asked:

Can maca root be taken with birth control? (ortho cyclen) i have read many good studies on this superfood and i hear it increases energy and sex drive

5 doctors weighed in across 2 answers

Interesting plant: There's no such thing as a "superfood" -- if the stuff you read on the "natural healing" websites was actually true, the research piranhas at the NIH would have a superfoods table. They don't. Maca has an alkaloid that has some effects similar to viagra (sildenafil). You'd be doing yourself a favor if you'd stop reading websites promoting things you don't need. I'll bet you have a great relationship already.

Answered 2/24/2015

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Dr. Johanna Fricke answered

Specializes in Pediatrics - Developmental and Behavioral

A meta-analysis of : all clinical trials of maca in improving sexual function showed that the total # of trials, the total sample size- 50 subjects or fewer & the average methodological quality of the studies were too limited to establish efficacy & safety. Maca contains many chemicals, including glucosinolate, which impacts thyroid functions. Check with your PCP or OB-GYN before taking it.

Answered 2/24/2015

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