Pfaffia Paniculata (Pfaffia paniculata): Benefits, Dosage, Safety & Evidence

Questions fréquentes

How does Pfaffia paniculata work as an adaptogen?

Pfaffia paniculata (Suma) functions through active compounds called pfaffosides and beta-ecdysterone. These constituents help reduce inflammatory cytokines and modulate the immune response, assisting the body in maintaining homeostasis during stress. Beta-ecdysterone also contributes anabolic properties that may support physical stamina. Current evidence for these specific mechanisms is rated Level C, based primarily on preliminary research and traditional application rather than extensive human clinical trials.

Does Suma root interact with hormone medications?

Due to its potential hormonal effects, Pfaffia paniculata may interact with hormone replacement therapies or oral contraceptives. Because the herb contains phytosterols and ecdysteroids, it could theoretically interfere with the efficacy of these medications. While specific clinical drug interaction studies are limited (Evidence Level C), patients taking hormonal treatments should consult a healthcare provider before use to avoid unintended interactions.

What is the standard dosage for Pfaffia paniculata extract?

The standard adult dosage for Pfaffia paniculata extract typically ranges from 500mg to 1 gram taken twice daily. This amount is traditionally used to support energy and immune function. Dosage may vary depending on the concentration of active saponins or beta-ecdysterone in the specific product. Users should adhere to manufacturer guidelines or seek advice from a medical herbalist for personalized dosing recommendations.

Is Suma root safe to use during pregnancy?

No, Pfaffia paniculata is considered unsafe during pregnancy. The herb possesses hormonal properties that could disrupt the delicate hormonal balance required for fetal development. Consequently, it is contraindicated for pregnant women and those breastfeeding. Safety data is limited, but the potential for hormonal interference necessitates strict avoidance during these periods to ensure maternal and fetal health.

What are the primary benefits of taking Suma root?

Traditionally used in Amazonian medicine, Suma root is primarily utilized as an adaptogen to reduce fatigue and support stress resilience. It is believed to modulate the immune system and provide anabolic support for muscle recovery. While these uses are supported by traditional knowledge and preliminary studies regarding beta-ecdysterone, human clinical evidence remains limited (Evidence Level C), so benefits are largely anecdotal and theoretical.

Who should not take Pfaffia paniculata supplements?

Individuals with hormone-sensitive conditions, such as breast cancer or endometriosis, should avoid Pfaffia paniculata due to its potential estrogenic effects. Side effects are generally mild but may include gastrointestinal disturbances. Because the herb influences immune response, those with autoimmune diseases should consult a physician before use. Its safety profile is not fully established for children or those with severe chronic illnesses.

Fiche d'information compilée à partir de PubMed

Cette fiche a été compilée à partir de résumés PubMed (NIH) avec l'assistance d'une IA. Chaque affirmation factuelle est citée par un article PubMed réel (voir la liste des sources). Elle n'a pas encore été révisée par un humain — confirmez auprès d'un professionnel de santé avant utilisation.

Compilé à partir de 30 articles PubMed · modèle : gemma4:31b

Résumé

Pfaffia paniculata, also known as Brazilian ginseng, is an endemic Brazilian plant used traditionally for stress, inflammation, and immune support [PMID:29037916, PMID:26202807].

Contexte

Pfaffia paniculata (Amaranthaceae) is a perennial wild plant native to South America, often used as a substitute for Asian ginseng in Brazil [PMID:11091225, PMID:29607660, PMID:17030478].

Usages traditionnels

It is used in Brazilian folk medicine as an 'anti-stress' agent and for the treatment of fatigue, inflammation, low immune system, and as an aphrodisiac or antidiabetic tonic [PMID:29037916, PMID:26202807, PMID:23384553].

Composés actifs

Compounds isolated from the roots include nortriterpenoids (pfaffine A and B), ecdysteroids (ecdysone, 20-hydroxyecdysone, pterosterone, rapisterone), triterpenoids (pfaffic acid, pfameric acid, mesembryanthemoidigenic acid, oleanolic acid 28-O-beta-D-glucopyranoside), monoterpene glycosides, phytosteroids (beta-sitosterol, stigmasterol), allantoin, and saponins [PMID:19941264, PMID:14967943].

Mécanisme d'action

The herb may modulate Mapk and mucin pathways in intestinal inflammation [PMID:29037916]. In sickle cells, it appears to function as a sodium ionophore, increasing Na+ content and mean corpuscular volume to improve hydration and rheological properties [PMID:11091225]. It has also been shown to induce G2/M cell cycle arrest and caspase-3-induced apoptosis in HepG2 cells [PMID:26075002].

Preuves cliniques

Preuve BSickle Cell Disease

Extract improved red blood cell deformability in patients with SCD [PMID:26444603].

Preuve BPeriocular Hyperpigmentation

A compound cream containing P. paniculata, Ptychopetalum olacoides, and Lilium candidum showed 90% improvement in 'dark circles' [PMID:23377386, PMID:19527337].

Preuve DIntestinal Inflammation (Animal Model)

Extract at 200mg/kg significantly decreased macroscopic damage scores in TNBS-induced colonic inflammation in rats [PMID:29037916, PMID:26202807].

Preuve DCancer (Animal/In Vitro Models)

Demonstrated antineoplastic effects in Ehrlich tumors, reduced incidence of hepatic lesions in hepatocarcinogenesis models, and cytotoxicity in MCF-7 breast cancer cells [PMID:14623028, PMID:16051424, PMID:16039950, PMID:18485683].

Preuve DSexual Performance (Animal Model)

Fluid extracts improved copulatory performance in sexually sluggish or impotent male rats [PMID:10227074].

Preuve D

Sécurité et effets indésirables

In animal studies, doses up to 1000mg/kg did not cause weight loss or histopathological alterations in the liver, kidney, or spleen [PMID:17481871, PMID:14623028]. However, a case of occupational asthma was reported in a patient exposed to P. paniculata root powder during capsule manufacturing [PMID:1955631].

Synthèse des preuves

The majority of evidence is derived from in vitro studies and animal models (Level D), with limited clinical evidence (Level B) regarding sickle cell red blood cell deformability and cosmetic use for periorbital hyperpigmentation.

Sources PubMed

1.PMID: 29037916 (2018) — Pfaffia paniculata (Brazilian ginseng) extract modulates Mapk and mucin pathways in intestinal inflammation. · Journal of ethnopharmacology
2.PMID: 26202807 (2015) — Anti-inflammatory effects of Brazilian ginseng (Pfaffia paniculata) on TNBS-induced intestinal inflammation: Experimental evidence. · International immunopharmacology
3.PMID: 19941264 (2010) — Triterpenoids from Brazilian ginseng, Pfaffia paniculata. · Planta medica
4.PMID: 32977351 (2020) — Phytomedicines (medicines derived from plants) for sickle cell disease. · The Cochrane database of systematic reviews
5.PMID: 17481871 (2007) — Pfaffia paniculata (Brazilian ginseng) methanolic extract reduces angiogenesis in mice. · Experimental and toxicologic pathology : official journal of the Gesellschaft fur Toxikologische Pathologie

Pfaffia Paniculata

Sources et citations

Calculer une dose sûre de Pfaffia Paniculata

Acanthopanax Sessiliflorus

Ribes nigrum

Ganoderma Tsugae

Questions fréquentes

Résumé

Contexte

Usages traditionnels

Composés actifs

Mécanisme d'action

Preuves cliniques

Sécurité et effets indésirables

Synthèse des preuves

Sources PubMed

Sources gouvernementales

Pfaffia Paniculata

Sources et citations

Calculer une dose sûre de Pfaffia Paniculata

Plantes associées

Acanthopanax Sessiliflorus

Ribes nigrum

Ganoderma Tsugae

Questions fréquentes

Résumé

Contexte

Usages traditionnels

Composés actifs

Mécanisme d'action

Preuves cliniques

Sécurité et effets indésirables

Synthèse des preuves

Sources PubMed

Sources gouvernementales