Pfaffia paniculata is found in Central and South Americas. Brazil is the largest center for collecting this species. The root of this plant is used medicinally and sometimes called Brazilian Ginseng, although it is not botanically related to Asian or American Ginseng. Also is referred to as “para tudo” (for all things) or suma, pfaffia has been used by indigenous peoples of the Amazon region for a wide variety of health purposes. Due to their adaptogenic and immune-enhancing properties, pfaffia was reported to be more powerful than asiatic ginseng from the Panax plant family. Researchers report that it has the ability to strengthen the immune system and reduce tumors. Also have found that pfaffia acts primarily as a regulator of the endocrine, nervous, musculoskeletal and digestive systems without stimulating or inhibiting effects, thus classifying it as a true adaptogen. Pfaffia is reported to increase energy flow in the body. It has been used as a tonic, an aphrodisiac, a calming agent, and in the treatment of ulcers for at least 300 years. Dr. Takemoto was the first to study it in Japan and he found that the root contains pfaffic acid, which is capable of inhibiting certain types of cancerous cells. The pfaffic acids have been the object of pharmacological studies that support its use as an adaptogen. In 1998, japanese researchers filed patent for a proprietary extract (Beta-Ecdysterone). They claimed (through various in vivo and in vitro studies) that their compound maintained health, enhanced the immune system, and had a tonic and an anti-allergenic effect. A French company also filed a patent on the topical use of  Beta-Ecdysterone. Beta-Ecdysterone extract strengthened the water barrier function of the skin, increased skin keratinocyte differentiation (which would be helpful for psoriasis), gave the skin a smoother, softer appearance and, improved hair appearance.