Suma
Pfaffia paniculata• None
• Adaptogen (Improve Resistance to Stress) , Anxiety , Chronic Fatigue Syndrome , Immune Support , Menopausal Symptoms , Menstrual Problems , Sexual Dysfunction in Men , Sexual Dysfunction in Women , Sickle-Cell Disease , Sports Performance Enhancement , Ulcers
Suma is a large ground vine native to Central and South America. Sometimes called "Brazilian ginseng," native peoples have long used suma to promote robust health as well as to treat practically all illnesses. They called it Para Toda, which means "for all things." 1
What Is Suma Used for Today?
Suma's ancient reputation has generated worldwide interest. However, there has been little formal scientific investigation of the herb at this time.
According to most contemporary herbalists, suma is best understood as an adaptogen, a substance that supposedly helps one adapt to stress and fight infection (see the article on ginseng for a more in-depth discussion about adaptogens). Russian Olympic athletes have reportedly used suma (as well as other adaptogens) in the belief that it will enhance sports performance . In the United States, suma is often recommended as a general strengthener of the body, as well as for the treatment of chronic fatigue syndrome , menopausal symptoms , ulcers , anxiety , menstrual problems , impotence , and immune support . The herb also enjoys a considerable reputation as an aphrodisiac. However, there is is no reliable scientific evidence that suma offers any benefits for these conditions. Finally, one test tube study suggests that suma might be helpful for sickle-cell disease,2 but but it is a long way from such preliminary investigations to evidence of efficacy.
References
1. De Oliveira F. Pfaffia paniculata (Martius) Kuntze-Brazilian ginseng. Rev Bras Farmacog. 1986;1:86–92.
2. Ballas SK. Short Report: Hydration of sickle erythrocytes using a herbal extract (Pfaffia paniculata) in vitro. Br J Haematol . 2000;111:359–362.
Last reviewed April 2009 by EBSCO CAM Review Board
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