Maca Yellow vs Parsley

Side-by-side comparison of medicinal herbs

Herb

Maca Yellow

Lepidium meyenii var. flavum

Nutritive

Petroselinum crispum

Nutritive

Maca Yellow

❌ Not recommended in pregnancy

❌ Not recommended while nursing

Parsley

❌ Not recommended in pregnancy

❌ Not recommended while nursing

Description

Most common and widely studied maca variety, used for energy and general hormonal balance.

Far more than a garnish — a nutritional powerhouse rich in vitamins, iron, and volatile oils with diuretic and digestive properties.

Active Compounds

macamides, glucosinolates, amino acids, minerals, alkaloids

Myristicin, Apiole, Apigenin, Volatile oils

Traditional Uses

Andean energy and fertility food, Incan warrior staple, llama fodder at altitude

Urinary support, Digestive aid, Breath freshener, Menstrual regulation

Modern Uses

energy and vitality, general hormonal balance, fertility, cognitive function

Diuretic, Antioxidant, Anti-inflammatory, Nutritive

Adult Dosage

1.5-3g gelatinized powder daily

2-4g dried herb or 6g fresh as tea 3x daily

Contraindications

thyroid conditions, hormone-sensitive cancers

Pregnancy (therapeutic doses), Kidney disease, Oxalate-sensitivity

Side Effects

insomnia with large doses, digestive upset (raw), altered cycles

Photosensitivity, Oxalate kidney stones, Uterine stimulation

Drug Interactions

0 known interactions

Reviewed by: HerbAlly Editorial Team, Medical herbalists and healthcare professionals

Sources: WHO Monographs · NCCIH · PubMed · Commission E