Suma Root

August 17th, 2008

Botanical Name: Pfaffia paniculata
Family: Amaranthaceae (cockscomb)
Other common names: Amazon Ginseng, Brazilian Ginseng, Brazilian Carrots, Para Todo, Pfaffia
Kingdom: Plantae

Division: Magnoliophyta

Class: Magnoliopsida

Order: Caryophyllales

Genus: Pfaffia

Species: P. paniculata

Habitat:Suma is an indigenous plant to South America, most notably Brazil, Ecuador, Peru and Venezuela.

Description:
Traditionally it has been used as a food product for many forest foragers and was occasionally administered for medicinal reasons. Modern use has isolated it for its ability to act as an adaptogen, hence its other common name “Brazilian Ginseng”. While not a true Ginseng, it has displayed properties very similar to the Ginseng (Panax) family. Because of the vast array of constituents contained within Suma, this plant is being thoroughly explored, used and studied for treatment surrounding many of today’s most common ailments. Because of its rather Vanilla like flavor this botanical can be easily consumed for those with palatable sensitivities.

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Suma plant..………………………....Suma………………………………………...Suma Root

Suma also called Brazilian ginseng (Pfaffia paniculata syn. Hebanthe paniculata, Gomphrena paniculata, Gomphrena eriantha, Iresine erianthos, Iresine paniculata, Iresine tenuis, Pfaffia eriantha, Xeraea paniculata ) is the root of a rambling ground vine found in South America used traditionally as a medicine and tonic. Nicknamed “para tudo” which means “for all,” suma is an herbal medicine with adaptogenic qualities that serve to normalize and enhance body systems, increase resistance to stress, and boost overall functioning. It has been used for a variety of ailments with good efficacy, hence the name “para tudo.”

Pharmacology and mode of action
Suma is said to support hormonal balance, reduce inflammation, inhibit cancer and leukemia cells, enhance immunity, increase libido, and a provide a number of normalizing and rejuvenating effects. One of the reason for its myriad effects may be its ability to increase oxygenation and energy efficiency at the cellular level. Suma contains germanium, beta-ecdysterone, allantoin, and a group of novel phytochemical saponins called pfaffosides.

Called the “Russian Secret”, suma root has long been used by athletes from that part of the world as an alternative to steroids. This may be because it contains the phytochemical beta-ecdysterone, and several related chemicals, as well as an unusual concentration of common nutrients and amino acids.

Constituents
Rich in Amino Acids, electrolytes, trace minerals, pfaffic acid, Germanium, Sitosterol, Stigmasterol, Beta-ecdysone, and Saponins.

Parts Used
Western herbal medicine uses the dried root in whole, cut or powdered form. Fresh root seems to be fairly “tannic” for palatable consumption.

Typical preparations
Tea decoction from the root, powdered root sprinkled on food or in beverages, as a liquid herbal extract, and capsules (non-standardized) from powdered root.

Summary
Not much research has been carried out for this particular botanical and to date there have not been any released notes on possible medicinal contraindications, side effects or potential health hazards. This particular root has been used successfully for thousands of years and the empirical evidence of the ages speaks for itself. It comes highly recommended in times of severe strife and stress induced fatigue. Modern reports have suggested this root to be a great dietary addition to increase ones stamina and endurance. It should be noted that Suma should not be consumed for long periods of time and is better reserved for those “times of need”.
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Disclaimer:
The information presented herein is intended for educational purposes only. Individual results may vary, and before using any supplements, it is always advisable to consult with your own health care provider.

Resources:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pfaffia_paniculata
http://www.botanical.com/products/learn/suma.html