Suma (Hebanthe eriantha), or Brazilian ginseng, is a plant species in the Amaranthaceae (amaranth) family. It's native to tropical areas of the Amazon rainforest.
The root of the suma plant has been used in traditional Brazilian medicine to treat a variety of conditions, from boosting energy and sexual function to lowering stress and blood sugar. Chokeberry Extract Powder
Available research focuses mainly on suma's anti-inflammatory and antitumor effects. However, most studies have been conducted in either test tubes (in vitro) or animal (in vivo) models. Due to a lack of human data, not enough is known about this supplement's side effects or interactions in people. Well-designed human trials are needed to determine suma's benefits.
This article discusses the potential uses, benefits, and safety of suma.
Dietary supplements are not regulated the way drugs are in the United States, meaning the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not approve them for safety and effectiveness before products are marketed. Whenever possible, choose a supplement tested by a trusted third party, such as the U.S. Pharmacopeia (USP), ConsumerLab.com, or NSF International.
However, even if supplements are third-party tested, they are not necessarily safe for all or effective in general. Therefore, talk to your healthcare provider about any supplements you plan to take and ask about potential interactions with other supplements or medications.
Supplement use should be individualized and vetted by a healthcare professional, such as a registered dietitian, pharmacist, or healthcare provider. No supplement is intended to treat, cure, or prevent disease.
Suma is one of many medicinal herbs that are referred to as adaptogens. Adaptogens are plants that may help the body regulate and cope with different types of stress, like fatigue, infection, or environmental factors.
Preliminary studies in animal models or test tubes have shown that suma may benefit inflammation, cancer, or mental health. However, since results from test tube and animal studies often don't translate into benefits for people, human clinical trials and more research are needed.
Here's the science behind suma's proposed uses:
Consuming a supplement like suma may have potential side effects. These side effects can be common and mild or uncommon and severe.
If taken at a high dose or for a prolonged amount of time, side effects of suma may include the following:
Parts of suma caused cell abnormalities and cell death in a 2016 rat study. More research is needed to determine if it has a similar action in humans. For this reason, some researchers suggest using it with caution.
Suma has not been studied in children and is not recommended.
Also, discuss using suma with your healthcare provider if you're trying to conceive.
Suma is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding because there's not enough research proving its safety.
Suma has been shown to decrease sperm quality in mice. A daily intake of 100 mg/kg was associated with embryo loss. It's unknown whether this effect also occurs in humans.
Always speak with a healthcare provider before taking a supplement to ensure that the supplement and dosage are appropriate for your individual needs.
No human clinical trials have been conducted on suma. Therefore, there's not a uniform suggested or recommended dose of suma. If you decide to try it, follow the manufacturer's directions.
There's not much data on suma toxicity. However, side effects seem more common if high doses are taken or if it's used for an extended period.
Because of a lack of human clinical trials, there's very little information on suma's drug interactions.
Suma could interact with erectile dysfunction medications like si Viagra (sildenafil) based on a study conducted in mice.
Suma has had side effects like high blood pressure and anxiety. It might interact with blood pressure medications or other stimulants, such as caffeine or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) medications.
It is essential to read the ingredients list and nutrition facts panel of a supplement carefully to know which ingredients and how much or each ingredient is included. Please review this supplement label with your healthcare provider to discuss any potential interactions with foods, other supplements, and medications.
Herbal preparations should be stored in a cool, dry place, out of direct sunlight. Keep suma out of the reach of children and pets. Discard after one year or as indicated on the packaging.
Other herbs known as adaptogens include the following:
Some supplements that may decrease inflammation are:
The suma plant is native to Brazil. In the United States, it usually is consumed as a tea or in supplement form.
Suma root can be made into a powder for teas or used as a food additive.
Suma can be found in several forms at health food stores, pharmacies, and online. These include capsules, powder, and extracts.
No U.S. government agency regulates herbal preparations. This contrasts with prescription and over-the-counter medications, which the FDA regulates. This means that the burden of finding a safe and effective product is on the consumer.
Look for supplements certified by third-party agencies such as USP, NSF, or ConsumerLab.com.
Suma has been used traditionally for many conditions and studied for its effects on inflammation and specific types of tumors. However, most of the medical research data comes from animal, not human, studies. More studies are needed to prove suma's safety and effectiveness for human use.
No. The safety of suma for infants and children has not been established.
Suma got its common name, "Brazilian ginseng," because of its structural similarities to Korean ginseng (Panax ginseng) and because both plants are considered adaptogens, which are believed to manage stress and restore balance in the body. But suma and Korean ginseng come from different plant families and differ in chemical makeup and health benefits.
It is not yet known. Test tube studies have shown promising effects of suma on liver cancer cells. However, its benefit remains unknown until human clinical trials are conducted.
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RX List.com.Sum up.RXList.com.
By Megan Nunn, PharmD Megan Nunn, PharmD, is a community pharmacist in Tennessee with over twelve years of experience in medication counseling and immunization.
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