Suma Extract
Also known as: Suma root, Brazilian ginseng, Suma, Pfaffia paniculata
Overview
Pfaffia paniculata, commonly known as Suma root or Brazilian ginseng, is an herbal supplement derived from the root of a plant native to South America. Traditionally, it has been valued for its adaptogenic and tonic properties, believed to enhance energy, stamina, and immune function. It is also anecdotally used to support fertility and has been explored for potential anti-cancer effects. While traditional use is extensive, scientific research, particularly human clinical trials, is limited. Most current evidence stems from in vitro and animal studies, indicating potential biological activities but lacking robust human validation. It is crucial to differentiate Suma from sumac (Rhus coriaria), as the latter has more established research regarding metabolic benefits.
Benefits
Suma is traditionally used as an adaptogen to improve stamina and reduce fatigue, though robust clinical evidence in humans is currently lacking. Animal studies suggest Suma extract may increase sex hormone levels (estradiol, progesterone, testosterone) and sexual activity, potentially improving fertility; however, these findings have not been confirmed in human trials. In test-tube and animal studies, compounds within Suma, such as pfaffic acid and saponins, have shown potential to inhibit cancer cell growth and metastasis, and may enhance chemotherapy effects, but human data are absent. It is important to note that systematic reviews and randomized controlled trials demonstrating significant reductions in insulin resistance, systolic blood pressure, and triglycerides are associated with sumac (*Rhus coriaria*), not *Pfaffia paniculata* (Suma), and these benefits cannot be extrapolated to Suma extract.
How it works
The adaptogenic effects of Suma are hypothesized to involve the modulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and immune system activation. Its potential anti-cancer properties are thought to be mediated by saponins and pfaffic acid, which have been observed to induce apoptosis and inhibit tumor cell proliferation in in vitro studies. Fertility-related effects, as seen in animal models, may stem from its ability to modulate hormone levels. However, the exact bioavailability and pharmacokinetics of Suma's active compounds in humans are not yet well characterized, and further research is needed to fully elucidate its mechanisms of action.
Side effects
Suma extract is generally considered safe based on its long history of traditional use and limited clinical data. There are no well-documented common or severe side effects reported in humans. However, comprehensive safety studies are currently lacking, meaning the full spectrum of potential adverse effects is not yet known. Due to observed hormonal effects in animal studies, there is a theoretical possibility of interactions with hormone-sensitive conditions, but this remains unconfirmed in humans. No clear contraindications have been established due to insufficient research data. Individuals with pre-existing health conditions or those taking other medications should consult a healthcare professional before using Suma extract.
Dosage
There is no standardized dosing regimen for Suma extract established through human clinical trials. Dosing recommendations are primarily based on traditional use and animal studies, which show considerable variability. Therefore, minimum effective and maximum safe doses for humans have not been definitively determined. Furthermore, the standardization of bioactive compounds, such as saponin content, is not well defined across different Suma products. Until more rigorous human research is conducted, specific dosage guidelines cannot be provided. Users should exercise caution and consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice.
FAQs
Is Suma extract effective for fertility in humans?
Currently, there are no clinical trials in humans to confirm Suma extract's effectiveness for fertility. Evidence is limited to promising findings from animal studies.
Can Suma extract help fight cancer?
Promising in vitro and animal data suggest potential anti-cancer activity, but human studies are lacking. More research is needed to confirm these effects in people.
Is Suma extract safe to use?
Suma appears safe based on traditional use, but rigorous safety data from human clinical trials are insufficient. Comprehensive safety profiles are not yet established.
What is the difference between Suma and sumac?
Suma (*Pfaffia paniculata*) and sumac (*Rhus coriaria*) are distinct plants. Sumac has demonstrated metabolic benefits in human trials, which cannot be attributed to Suma.
Research Sources
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10861764/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis focused on the effects of sumac (*Rhus coriaria*) supplementation on cardiometabolic parameters in adults. It found that sumac significantly reduced insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), systolic blood pressure, and triglycerides, particularly with doses ≥3 g/day for ≥12 weeks. The study highlights the metabolic benefits of sumac, a plant distinct from Suma (*Pfaffia paniculata*).
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10183306/ – This well-designed crossover randomized controlled trial investigated the effects of sumac supplementation (500 mg twice daily) on metabolic markers. It demonstrated reductions in systolic blood pressure and triglycerides, further supporting the metabolic benefits of sumac. This research pertains to *Rhus coriaria* and should not be confused with *Pfaffia paniculata* (Suma).
- https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/suma-root-benefits-downsides – This article provides an overview of Suma root, discussing its traditional uses, potential benefits, and downsides. It highlights that while animal and in vitro studies suggest potential in fertility enhancement and anti-cancer activity, human validation is still required. It also emphasizes the lack of robust clinical evidence for many of its purported benefits.
- https://www.medicinenet.com/what_are_the_benefits_of_suma_root_side_effects/article.htm – This source discusses the traditional uses and potential benefits of Suma root, along with its safety profile. It notes that Suma is generally considered safe based on traditional use, but acknowledges the insufficiency of comprehensive safety studies and the lack of well-documented common or severe side effects in humans.
- https://www.ebsco.com/research-starters/health-and-medicine/sumas-therapeutic-uses – This research starter provides an overview of Suma's therapeutic uses, categorizing it as an adaptogen. It mentions its traditional use for energy, stamina, and immune function, and touches upon its potential in fertility and anti-cancer applications, while also pointing out the limited human clinical evidence.
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