The maca root and ashwagandha are two well-known medicinal herbs with long histories of traditional usage. Although they come from different parts of the world, they are often used for similar purposes.
In this article, we will reveal the most important differences between these herbs, and answer the burning question of whether it is safe to take ashwagandha and maca together, or not.
Differences Between Maca root and Ashwagandha
Although they are often used for similar purposes, maca and ashwagandha are far from the same family of medicinal herbs, and there are clear differences between the two.
Firstly, ashwagandha is known as a true adaptogen with the capacity to control the body’s response to stress. Adaptogens are substances that are present in some plants and mushrooms and they may affect how your body responds to stress.
Maca, on the other hand, is a secondary adaptogen since it does not affect the HPA axis – a name for 3 hormone-secreting glands.
Secondly, both of these herbs can assist to increase physical energy and sexual function in various ways. Ashwagandha helps the body by promoting the production of hormones – primarily testosterone.
Although it does have the ability to improve sexual function, maca is unable to affect how the production of hormones. Maca does this through its rich nutrient profile, which is high in various minerals.
Is it safe to take Maca and Ashwagandha Together?
When taken together, these supplements have no known adverse interactions. In fact, these herbs may work well together to improve sleep quality and hormone synthesis at night while boosting libido and vitality throughout the day.
Although you could take them at the same time, many opt to take maca in the morning or the afternoon, followed by ashwagandha right before bed. Depending on whether taking these herbs together makes you sleepy or not, you could take them together at any time of day.
Benefits of taking Maca root with Ashwagandha
When taken on their own, these two herbs provide great benefits already, but taking them together could prove to be a potent combination.
Studies have shown that maca is a great supplement for physical activity since it has anti-fatigue effects on the body. Maca boosts energy levels in healthy adults, children, and athletes of all genders. It is crucial for improving endurance as well.
Similarly, studies reveal that ashwagandha is correlated with considerable gains in strength and muscle mass, indicating that taking ashwagandha supplements alongside resistance exercise may be beneficial.
It makes sense that taking these two herbs together, maca for its energy-increasing effects, and ashwagandha for its positive effects on muscle mass, could be a great natural performance-boosting combination.
Additionally, since both of these herbs are good for the libido, but for different reasons, taking them together may provide even more noticeable benefits.
Maca root and Ashwagandha Side Effects
Although both of these herbs are considered to be generally safe and free from side effects, the long-term effects of taking ashwagandha and maca root require more research to be conducted. If you take them together it would be best to exercise caution and moderation.
Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should consult their healthcare provider before taking maca because it is still unknown if it is safe to consume during these periods.
How to take Maca and Ashwagandha
The best way to take maca and ashwagandha will depend on the unique response that your body may have to these herbs. Since ashwagandha causes some to feel sleepy, they prefer to take it before bed.
As previously mentioned, maca has energy-boosting effects, which is why the best time to take it may be first thing in the morning. In any case, they may be safely taken together.
Both of the herbs may be taken both with food or without food, but some believe them to be more effective when taken on an empty stomach. If you do not experience digestive issues when taking them on an empty stomach, then this is probably the way to go.
It is unknown what dosage of maca root is ideal for use in healthy adults. However, the average daily dose of maca root powder used in studies is 1.5–3 grams.
Ashwagandha is generally taken in doses of up to 5 grams per day, but doses as low as 125mg may be effective in stress reduction.
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