Herb Pharm Maca
Brand: Herb Pharm · Form: LIQUID, SUPPLEMENT FORM [E0165]
Our assessment
The evidence shows that this product contains calcium, a mineral essential for bone health. For a general audience seeking a supplement, our assessment is that calcium is well-studied, but you must be aware of the specific risks and interactions associated with it. Data on the specific "Herb Pharm Maca" product is limited, so we focus on the known effects of its ingredient, calcium.
How it works
Think of calcium as a building block for your body. It supports bone mineralization and density, and it is critical for neuromuscular relaxation and nerve signaling [NIH ODS]. Without adequate calcium, your body will leach it from your bones to support these vital functions, which can weaken your skeleton over time.
Safety profile
FDA has received a total of 592,059 adverse event reports for products containing this ingredient. You should be aware of serious safety concerns: high calcium intake might increase the risk of heart disease and prostate cancer. Excess calcium in the blood and urine can cause poor muscle tone, poor kidney function, low phosphate levels, constipation, nausea, weight loss, extreme tiredness, frequent need to urinate, abnormal heart rhythms, and a high risk of death from heart disease [NIH ODS] [FDA data]. Calcium can also reduce the absorption of several medications, including bisphosphonates, tetracycline antibiotics, fluoroquinolone antibiotics, levothyroxine, and phenytoin [NIH ODS].
Our recommendation
Do not start this supplement without first consulting your doctor. Because of the significant risks and medication interactions, you need a personalized assessment. If you are taking any of the medications listed, or if you have a history of kidney problems or heart disease, this supplement may not be safe for you [NIH ODS].
AI-assisted analysis. Data sourced from NIH DSLD.
Supplement Facts
| Brand | Herb Pharm |
|---|---|
| Serving Size | |
| Contents | 1.0 fl. Oz. 30.0 mL |
| Market Status | Off Market |
How to Read This Label
Supplement labels contain several key sections regulated by the FDA:
- Serving Size — The recommended amount per dose. Always check this — some products require multiple capsules per serving.
- Amount Per Serving — Shows the quantity of each nutrient in the product, typically in IU (International Units), mg (milligrams), or mcg (micrograms).
- % Daily Value (%DV) — Indicates how much a nutrient in a serving contributes to a daily diet. 5% DV or less is low; 20% DV or more is high.
- Other Ingredients — Lists inactive ingredients like fillers, binders, and capsule materials (e.g., gelatin, cellulose, magnesium stearate).
- Suggested Use — The manufacturer's recommended directions for taking the supplement, including timing and dosage.
Source: FDA Dietary Supplement Labeling Guide