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Suma Extract Concentrate

Also known as: Pfaffia paniculata, Suma root, Brazilian ginseng, Para toda, Suma

Overview

Suma extract concentrate is derived from the root of *Pfaffia paniculata*, a vine native to Central and South America. Traditionally used by indigenous peoples, it is classified as an adaptogen, purported to enhance the body's resilience to stress and support overall health. It is commonly marketed for its potential to improve energy, sexual function, immune response, and as a general tonic. Key characteristics include its content of bioactive compounds such as pfaffic acid, saponins (pfaffosides), and antioxidants. Despite traditional use and preliminary animal and in vitro studies, the research maturity level is low to moderate, with limited high-quality human clinical trials and no systematic reviews or meta-analyses specifically on Suma extract concentrate. The quality of available evidence is generally weak, relying mostly on animal studies, small human trials, and anecdotal reports.

Benefits

Suma is traditionally used to combat fatigue and improve physical endurance, but robust clinical evidence in humans is lacking. Animal studies have shown increased sexual behavior and hormone levels in rats and mice, but human data are insufficient and inconclusive. Laboratory and animal studies suggest Suma contains compounds that may reduce oxidative stress and inflammation. In vitro studies indicate Suma extract may help normalize red blood cell shape in sickle cell disease, but human trials are absent. Animal models show potential for reducing intestinal inflammation, but human evidence is lacking. No well-powered human RCTs have confirmed benefits in specific populations such as athletes, menopausal women, or patients with chronic diseases.

How it works

Suma’s bioactive compounds, including pfaffic acid and saponins, are thought to exert antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects by scavenging free radicals and modulating immune cell activity. Adaptogenic effects may involve modulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, enhancing stress resilience, but this remains speculative without direct human evidence. The extract may influence sex hormone levels, as suggested by animal studies, though molecular targets in humans are not well characterized. Absorption and bioavailability data for Suma extract compounds are not well documented.

Side effects

Suma extract appears generally safe based on traditional use and limited studies, but comprehensive safety data from controlled human trials are lacking. No well-documented common adverse effects in humans have been reported. Uncommon and rare side effects are also not reported in the literature. Drug interactions are unknown due to insufficient data. Caution is advised in pregnancy, breastfeeding, and in individuals on hormone-sensitive conditions due to potential hormonal effects. Safety in children, pregnant or lactating women, and those with chronic illnesses is not established.

Dosage

No standardized or clinically validated dosing regimens exist for Suma extract concentrate. Traditional and supplement product labels often recommend doses ranging from 500 mg to 1000 mg daily, but these are not evidence-based. Timing and form-specific recommendations are not defined. Absorption factors and required cofactors are not documented.

FAQs

Is Suma extract effective for boosting energy or sexual function?

Animal studies suggest potential benefits, but human evidence is insufficient to confirm efficacy.

Is it safe to take Suma extract daily?

Likely safe in moderate amounts, but lack of rigorous safety data warrants caution.

How soon can effects be expected?

Unknown due to absence of human clinical trials.

Can Suma extract replace conventional treatments?

No; it should not replace evidence-based therapies.

Research Sources

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/37864474/ – This study investigates the impact of exercise on the gut microbiota and metabolome in mice fed a high-fat diet, revealing that exercise can partially reverse the adverse effects of the diet on gut health. It identifies specific microbial changes and metabolic pathways influenced by exercise, suggesting potential therapeutic targets for obesity-related metabolic disorders. The research highlights the importance of exercise in modulating gut microbiota composition and function.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10183306/ – This review explores the potential of natural products, including plant extracts and phytochemicals, in preventing and treating sarcopenia, an age-related muscle wasting condition. It discusses various mechanisms by which these natural compounds can promote muscle growth, reduce inflammation, and improve overall muscle health. The review emphasizes the need for further clinical trials to validate the efficacy and safety of these natural products in sarcopenia management.
https://greatist.com/health/suma-root – This article provides a general overview of Suma root, discussing its potential health benefits, including its adaptogenic properties and antioxidant content. It also touches on the traditional uses of Suma and highlights the lack of extensive human research to support these claims. The article serves as an introductory resource for those interested in learning more about Suma root.
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/suma-root-benefits-downsides – This article reviews the potential benefits and downsides of Suma root, covering its nutritional content, traditional uses, and purported health effects. It also discusses the limitations of current research and emphasizes the need for more human studies to confirm its efficacy and safety. The article offers a balanced perspective on Suma root, highlighting both its potential and the uncertainties surrounding its use.
https://www.ebsco.com/research-starters/health-and-medicine/sumas-therapeutic-uses – This research starter provides an overview of Suma's therapeutic uses, discussing its traditional applications and potential health benefits. It highlights the bioactive compounds found in Suma and their potential mechanisms of action. The research starter also emphasizes the need for further research to validate these claims and establish safe and effective dosing guidelines.