Suma (Pfaffia paniculata)
Synopsis of suma
Suma (Pfaffia paniculata) is a sprawling vine native to the Amazon rainforest and other regions of South America. Commonly referred to as “Brazilian ginseng,” suma is not botanically related to true ginseng (Panax spp.), but it shares similar adaptogenic qualities—helping the body resist stress, restore balance, and enhance vitality. The root of the plant is used medicinally and contains a diverse array of active compounds, including pfaffic acids, beta-ecdysterone, saponins, stigmasterol, allantoin, and iron.
Suma is primarily used as an adaptogen, tonic, and rejuvenative herb. It supports endocrine function, physical endurance, immune modulation, and hormonal balance. It is often used to enhance energy levels, stamina, and recovery from illness or fatigue, making it popular among athletes and individuals experiencing chronic stress, adrenal fatigue, or hormonal imbalance.
In addition to its adaptogenic qualities, suma exhibits anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anabolic, and immunostimulant properties. Beta-ecdysterone, a plant-based steroid found in suma, has been researched for its ability to increase muscle mass, speed recovery, and support hormonal function without the side effects associated with synthetic steroids.
Historical Use:
Suma has a long tradition of use in Amazonian and Brazilian folk medicine, where it was considered a whole-body tonic and vitality herb. Indigenous tribes used the root decoction to enhance strength, boost libido, improve wound healing, treat ulcers, and fortify overall health. It was consumed during periods of illness, seasonal weakness, and intense physical exertion, much like true ginseng is used in Chinese medicine.
In the 20th century, suma gained international attention when researchers began to investigate its anabolic and adaptogenic properties. Soviet scientists studied beta-ecdysterone and pfaffic acid complexes for potential performance-enhancing and recovery-supporting effects—especially in the context of endurance sports and physical rehabilitation.
In Brazilian herbal medicine, suma has been used to balance hormones, particularly in cases of menstrual irregularities, menopausal symptoms, and low libido. Its mild estrogenic and androgenic balancing effects make it suitable for both male and female endocrine support.
Suma is used for these health conditions
Adrenal Fatigue (Traditional)
Anemia (Traditional)
Arthritis (Traditional)
Athletic and Exercise Aids (Traditional)
Cancer (natural therapy for) (Traditional)
Cancer (prevention) (Traditional)
Cancer Treatment (reducing side effects) (Traditional)
Circulation (poor) (Traditional)
Depression (Traditional)
Diabetes (Traditional)
Digestion (poor) (Traditional)
Energy (lack of) (Traditional)
Fatigue (Traditional)
Heart (weakness) (Traditional)
Inflammation (Traditional)
Memory and Brain Function (Traditional)
Stress (Traditional)
Wounds and Sores (Traditional)
suma is used to support these body systems
Adrenal Cortex (Traditional)
Adrenal Glands (Traditional)
Blood (Traditional)
Circulatory System (Traditional)
Digestive System (Traditional)
Glandular System (Traditional)
Immune System (Traditional)
Male Reproductive System (Traditional)
Muscles (Traditional)
Nerves (Traditional)
Reproductive System (Traditional)
