Suma, powder

Description

Suma is a topical, spreading vine in the pigweed or amaranth family that is native to South America. Because the plant has a history of use as an adaptogen, and also because it is particularly abundant throughout Brazil, it is often referred to as Brazilan ginseng, although it is not related to any plants in the ginseng family. To native Brazilians, however, suma is called para tudo, which means ?for all things? in Portuguese and is a reference to its wide variety of applications. Powdered suma root, which has a flavor described as spicy and vanilla-like, is used to make teas and tonics or is added directly to foods and beverages.
Suma root contains a number of active compounds, including a class of saponins called pfaffosides and allantoin, the same chemical found in comfrey.

Suma powder is typically used to make cosmetic and personal care products, including tooth powders, mouthwashes, shampoos and lotions. Infuse powdered suma root in oil for use in making salves, ointments and creams. May also be applied to the skin as a moist poultice.
culinary May be tinctured in alcohol. The powdered root may also be encapsulated as a dietary supplement. Suma root is a good source of beta-sitosterol, vitamins A, B1, B2, E, K, iron, magnesium, zinc and nearly two dozen amino acids. The root also contains a significant amount of saponins, most notably a novel group called pfaffosides.