Does maca increase oestrogen?

Due to the association with maca and hormones often people are concerned about using it with conditions that are hormone sensitive. Common questions include: Does maca interfere with hormones? Does maca increase oestrogen? Is it safe for those on the contraceptive pill, with cervical dysplasia, cervical cancer or breast cancer?

There is no direct study that measures the effectiveness or safety of maca consumption with these conditions. However, a recent study did demonstrate that maca did not affect any phase of either the estrous cycle, number of ova recovered within oviduct, serum estradiol levels, wet uterine and body weights as compared with a placebo control group. In addition, a further study of 14 postmenopausal women showed no differences in serum concentrations of estradiol, follicle-stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone, and sex hormone-binding globulin between baseline with Maca treatment and placebo.

These findings suggest that maca has no androgenic or alpha-estrogenic activity. The authors concluded Maca (3.5 g/d) was able to reduce psychological symptoms, including anxiety and depression, and lower measures of sexual dysfunction in postmenopausal women independent of estrogenic and androgenic activity. Unlike other hormonal specific botanical treatments maca does not contain phytoestrogens and does not directly stimulate oestrogen production. It’s predominant mode of action is to regulate natural endocannabinoid function in the brain. If you have any concerns about the safety of maca with such conditions then please consult with your medical professional.
Summary: maca does not contain plant based oestrogen and works independent of hormones. It is unlikely to stimulate rapid hormonal production and shouldn’t interfere with hormonal medication.

To learn about using maca to balance hormones click on our treating hormonal imbalance with maca page.

Note: There is no upper limit with maca and everybody is different, so it is important to find your ideal dose that is right for your body, for some this may be less than the recommended for others it may be more. If you experience positive health benefits then we suggest you continue treatment at that ideal dosage. The material provided on this website is for information purposes only. It is not intended to replace medical advice or be a treatment for any medical condition. Users should consult a health professional if you have any concerns about your health, are starting any health or nutritional related treatment, or for any questions you may have regarding your own or any other party’s medical condition. Information and statements regarding dietary supplements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.