Suma | Health Notes at WWSM | Health Information at WWSM

Suma

Common name: Brazilian ginseng, Para todo

Botanical names: Pfaffia paniculata, Hebanthe paniculata

Parts used and where grown

Suma is a large shrubby vine native to the rain forests of the Amazon and other tropical regions of Latin America, including Brazil, Ecuador, Panama, Peru, and Venezuela.¹ The root of the plant is used medicinally.

Historical or traditional use (may or may not be supported by scientific studies)

Although suma is claimed as an ancient Brazilian folk remedy, no confirmation of that statement is found in the modern literature on medicinal plants. Advocates have claimed suma is an immune enhancer, an adaptogen (helps combat stress), and that it possesses anticancer activities. Test tube studies do indicate possible anti-tumour activity of suma constituents called pfaffosides. Suma has been marketed as Brazilian ginseng, though it is not an adaptogen (a substance that invigorates or strengthens the system) and is not related to Asian ginseng or American ginseng. In light of the lack of known traditional use, and of modern research confirming health benefits, use of suma is not recommended for any condition at this time.²

Active constituents

Suma root contains a few major constituents, including the nortriterpene pfaffic acid, six pfaffic acid saponins (pfaffosides A–F), pterosterone, ecdysterone, and ecdysteroid glycosides.³ ⁴ Although widespread claims are made for this herb for the treatment of chronic fatigue, stress, menopausal symptoms, and diabetes, they are not supported by current human clinical research. What little research has been done focuses on the plant’s anti-tumour, anti-inflammatory, and aphrodisiac effects and has been completed only in test tubes or with animals.⁵ ⁶ ⁷ ⁸

How much is usually taken?

Suma root, 500 to 1,000 mg two to three times per day, can be used.⁹

Are there any side effects or interactions?

Very little is known about the adverse effects of this herb. Saponins, such as the pfaffosides found in this plant, can cause nausea when taken in excessive quantities. Occupational inhalation of suma dust has been known to trigger asthma.¹⁰ The safety of this plant has not been established for use during pregnancy or breast-feeding.

At the time of writing, there were no well-known drug interactions with suma.

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The information presented in Healthnotes is for informational purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro), clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with prescription or over the counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor, practitioner, and/or chemist for any health problem and before using any supplements or before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires September 2008.