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Brazilian ginseng-Suma

Suma, also called Brazilian ginseng (Pfaffia paniculata) is the root of a shrubby ground vine which has an intricate and deep root system. The plant is indigenous to the rainforests of the Amazon basin, as well as other tropical parts of Brazil, Ecuador, Panama, Paraguay, Peru, and Venezuela.

The main active constituents of Suma are the saponins, including pfaffic acid and six unique pfaffosides, which are divided into two groups. Pfaffosides A, B, and C are classified as nortriterpene gluconisides; and pfaffosides D, E, and F are nortriterpene saponins.

Suma Root contains 19 different amino acids, a large number of electrolytes, and trace minerals including iron, magnesium, cobalt, silica, zinc, and vitamins A, B1, B2, E, K, and pantothenic acid.

Introduction

Since its first botanical recording in 1826, Suma has been referred to by several botanical names, but most importantly Pfaffia paniculata. In South America Suma is known as para toda (which means "for all things") and as Brazilian ginseng, since it is widely used as an adaptogene with many applications (much like "regular" ginseng).

Brazilian ginseng has its roots in South American culture. It is an herbal supplement known to help the body overcome stress and diseases. Suma has been used for hundreds of years as a "women's tonic" for treatment of menstrual cramps. Now, it is gaining popularity in the western world.

	Photo: Brazilian ginseng is a plant with an elaborate root system. In addition to the roots, the shrub was originally used by native inhabitants of the rainforest as a medicine.
	Photo: Suma has an extensive network of roots below the surface of the earth. The root can be ground and used for medicinal purposes. It can also be added as flavoring or used to make tea.

Application

Brazilian ginseng can be taken in capsules, and as a tea beverage. It can also enhance the flavor of chicken soup. Suma root products are now becoming more widely available; several encapsulated, ground-root products, root extract powders and liquid extracts (decoctions) are out there.

Brazilian ginseng is mostly used internally but it can be found in certain cosmetics, such as facial creams, moisturizers and shampoo.

Some sources say Suma extract can help strengthen the water barrier function of the skin, and giving the skin a smoother, softer appearance.

Medicinal action

Brazilian Ginseng is considered an adaptogene: a plant that increases the body's resistance to adverse influences by a wide range of physical, chemical, and biochemical factors and has a normalizing or restorative effect on the body as a whole.

The indigenous peoples of the Amazon region have used Suma root for generations for a wide variety of health purposes: as a general tonic, for more energy, to rejuvenate, as an aphrodisiac, a calming agent and to treat ulcers for at least 300 years.

Suma is used as a tonic for the cardiovascular system, the central nervous system, the reproductive system, and the digestive system.

Contemporary research studies have shown that the use of Suma can result in increased endurance, stress resistance, enhanced immune function, accelerated wound and fracture healing, decreased cholesterol levels and increased synthesis of protein. Suma is also said to support hormonal balance, reduce inflammation, inhibit cancer and leukemia cells, and provide a number of normalizing and rejuvenating effects.

Main Uses of Brazilian Ginseng:

as a general tonic;
for hormonal disorders (menopause, PMS, etc);
for chronic fatigue and general tiredness;
for sexual disorders (impotency, frigidity, low libido, etc);
to reduce stress;
as an immunity modulator.

Industrial application

Nothing is found that Brazilian Ginseng is used for any other purpose than as a food component or in cosmetics.

Dosage

For therapeutic effects, dry Suma root is given at high dosage of 5-10 grams per day preferably divided in 3 applications per day.

As a food supplement Brazilian Ginseng is most often advised in dosage from 2 - 4 grams of dry root per day.

If a concentrated Suma extract powder (ratio = 10:1) is used, a dosage of 100-250 mg per day should act as a preventative.

Little is known about the right dosage of Suma in cosmetic products in order to provide noticeable medicinal effects. For working Suma extract powder into cosmetics, most often an up to 1% concentration in the final cosmetic product is mostly added.

Contra-indications

There is no indication that Suma could be dangerous. No toxic effects are seen when used orally or topically.

Brazilian Ginseng may have estrogen-like effects. Therefore it is advised to consult your doctor when has estrogen-positive cancers.

Be advised:

In rare cases, the root powder might cause asthmatic allergic reactions if inhaled. Avoid inhalation of the root powder/dust;
Ingestion of large amounts of plant saponins in general has shown to sometimes cause mild gastric disturbances including nausea and stomach cramping. Reduce dosages if these side effects are noted.

More information / news

2004-08-16

RFI Brazilian ingredients


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