Premium Suma Root Powder 

• Known as Brazilian Ginseng

• Popular Adaptogen

• Perfect for Suma Root Tea

About Suma Root

Popularly known as Brazilian ginseng, the Suma root (Pfaffia paniculata) is a herbal rhizome that is native to Central and South America specifically Brazil, Ecuador, Paraguay, Panama Venezuela, and Peru. The vine which grows along the ground is precisely found growing along the Amazon rain forest. The suma root is also referred to as pfaffia, corango-acu, ‘the Russian secret’, and ‘para todo’. The latter means for all. This alludes to the universal nature of the plant as far as its applications and efficacy are concerned. Suma root powder has a pleasant flavour that resembles that of vanilla. 

The suma root has relatively deep roots to reach the deep-seated nutrients within the soil layers. For this reason, the roots are quite rich in bioactive compounds compared to other plant species. The suma root is preferably used in its dried form as this is the stage during which it is most potent. Apart from the root, the leaves of the plant are also used to come up with herbal teas. The plant, which grows in the Amazon basin, thrives in a tropical climate where there is partial sunlight, moisture, and relative humidity. The most preferable soil for the growth of suma root is that which is well-drained with a relative amount of organic matter. The roots that are prime to be ground into powder are preferably harvested in summer or fall when they are relatively dry. They are then dried in the sun before they are ground into different usable forms i.e. powder, tablets, capsules, and liquor extract. 

The earliest use of suma root is traced back to over 2,000 years ago in the Maya-Quiché civilization era. Alongside being used as a herb, the root was used as a trade item. They exchanged it for other goods in an era where there the Maya people were introduced to agriculture, writing trade, complex societies, and organized housing i.e. cities and villages. Also, in later years, natives who resided in South America made herbal teas out of the suma root powder. They took the tea during special occasions especially when their bodies were fatigued and feeling weary. They believed that the tea replenished their low energy levels. Also, it was common among women who had difficulties siring children. They mixed suma root powder with cold water with the belief that it boosted their fertility over time. 

Efraín Contreras (1898-1986), is also credited for leading the way in research on suma root powder. As a renowned naturopath, he studied the rhizome to determine what made a special naturopath among South Americans. He highlighted that it complemented different therapies and natural remedies. It was referred to as the Russian secret due to its profound use by the Russian team especially in the Olympics that took place in the 1970s. The herb formed part of the supplements that were taken by the Russian team. The researchers who recommended the herb believed that suma root powder aided in faster recovery of sore muscles as well as elevated stamina. This meant that they would have a more athletic body which would put them in a better position to win most of the sports they participated in. 

• Please note it is against MHRA guidelines for us to talk about any potential health benefits for this supplement however a quick google search on the potential benefits and you may be surprised.

How To Use

We recommend taking 1 - 2 teaspoons daily, can be mixed with water, in juices, blended into smoothies or foods, or made into a hot tea