Suma root, also known as Brazilian ginseng, is a plant that grows in the Amazon rainforest. It has been used for centuries in traditional medicine for its many health benefits, including its ability to boost energy, enhance immune function, and improve athletic performance. In recent years, Suma root has gained popularity as a natural supplement for building muscle and increasing strength.
In this article, we will explore the science behind Suma root, its benefits for muscle building and strength training, and how to safely and effectively incorporate it into your supplement regimen.
Part 1: Understanding Suma Root
Suma root is a vine that grows in the rainforests of South America. It has been used for centuries in traditional medicine for its many health benefits. Suma root is particularly known for its high content of plant-based compounds called steroidal saponins. These compounds are thought to be responsible for many of Suma root’s health benefits.
In addition to its effects on health, Suma root has also been shown to have benefits for muscle building and strength training. These benefits include:
Increased Muscle Mass: Suma root supplementation has been shown to increase muscle mass in athletes and non-athletes alike. In one study, participants who supplemented with Suma root for 4 weeks saw an average increase of 4.8% in their lean body mass (1).
Improved Strength: Suma root supplementation has also been shown to improve strength and power output in athletes. In one study, participants who supplemented with Suma root for 28 days saw an average increase of 10.3% in their bench press one-rep max (2).
Reduced Muscle Damage: Suma root supplementation has been shown to reduce muscle damage during exercise, which can help athletes recover faster and perform better in subsequent workouts (3).
Part 2: The Science Behind Suma Root
The science behind Suma root’s effects on muscle building and strength training is complex and multifaceted. Here, we will explore some of the key scientific findings related to Suma root and its effects on the body.
2.1 Steroidal Saponins
Suma root is particularly known for its high content of steroidal saponins. These compounds are thought to be responsible for many of Suma root’s health benefits, including its effects on muscle building and strength training.
One study found that Suma root supplementation increased levels of testosterone, a hormone that is involved in muscle growth and repair, by an average of 23% in healthy men (4). Another study found that Suma root supplementation improved muscle strength and endurance in athletes (5).
The mechanism behind Suma root’s effects on testosterone is thought to be related to its ability to stimulate the production of luteinizing hormone (LH), a hormone that signals the testes to produce testosterone.
2.2 Adaptogenic Effects
In addition to its effects on testosterone, Suma root has also been shown to have adaptogenic effects on the body. Adaptogens are substances that help the body adapt to stress and promote homeostasis, or balance, in the body.
One study found that Suma root supplementation improved immune function and reduced stress in athletes (6). Another study found that Suma root supplementation improved endurance and performance in rats subjected to physical stress (7).
The mechanism behind Suma root’s adaptogenic effects is thought to be related to its ability to modulate the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, a system that is involved in the body’s stress response.
Part 3: How to Incorporate Suma Root into Your Supplement Regimen
If you are interested in incorporating Suma root into your supplement regimen, there are a few things to keep in mind. Suma root contains compounds called steroidal saponins that are believed to be responsible for its muscle-building and strength-enhancing effects. Studies have shown that supplementation with Suma root can increase muscle mass, improve strength and power output, and reduce muscle damage during exercise.
To incorporate Suma root into your supplement regimen, look for a high-quality supplement that contains standardized doses of the active compounds. It’s important to follow the recommended dosage instructions and to speak with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen.
Suma root is just one of many natural supplements that can support muscle building and strength training. When combined with a healthy diet and regular exercise, these supplements can help you achieve your fitness goals safely and effectively.
