Hoodia gordonii is the botanical name for a succulent that grows in a small region in South Africa. The cactus-like hoodia plant was traditionally used by Kalahari bushmen, who consumed the stems to suppress their appetite before going on a big hunt. Hoodia gordonii is purportedly an ingredient in many over-the-counter diet aids sold in the U.S. But because hoodia is an endangered plant that cannot be exported, it's questionable if any of these products really do contain hoodia.
Hoodia History and Properties
According to Drugs.com, hoodia was first recognized as an appetite suppressant in 1937 by a Dutch anthropologist who studied natives of the Kalahari Desert. Hoodia's active constituent is a molecule called P57, which is currently licensed to Phytopharm, a U.K.-based pharmaceutical company. Phytopharm is investigating P57 for use in a weight-loss medication. Hoodia purportedly has similar effects as glucose on the human body, making those who consume it feel as though they have eaten, even if they haven't.
Studies
The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) and Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center indicate that there are no reliable clinical studies conducted on hoodia that suggest it is beneficial for appetite control or weight loss in humans. The cancer center states that one animal study did indicate that hoodia decreased the appetite in rats.
Preparations
Hoodia stems and roots are dried and used in dried preparations, such as capsules, powders and tablets, as well as liquid formulations, according to NCCAM. Many hoodia products may contain other ingredients, for example, green tea. Because there have been no clinical studies conducted on hoodia, the exact amount needed for appetite control is unknown. According to the University of Michigan Health System, 2 ounces of the raw plant consumed daily may help control hunger, but this dosage is based on anecdotal reports.
Cautions & Concerns
Hoodia's safety has not been thoroughly investigated, but don't take hoodia products if you have diabetes, heart problems or a bleeding or clotting disorder or take any medications to treat these conditions without first speaking to your doctor, Drugs.com advises. Avoid hoodia if you have anorexia, bulemia or an eating disorder. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration treats hoodia products dietary supplements, not medications, so none have been evaluated for safety or effectiveness. Hoodia gordonii marketers cannot make claims that their product will suppress the appetite, help you lose weight or treat any medical condition.
Other Information
NCCAM cites news reports that indicate some hoodia products don't really contain hoodia, so the quality of hoodia weight loss aids is extremely hit and miss. The University of Michigan Health System reports that because of the high demand for hoodia, it could be endangered. There are federal regulations in place that prohibit it from being exported from South Africa. Phytopharm cultivates its own Hoodia gordonii for research purposes, with an eye to releasing a weight loss aid. But this product is not currently available in the consumer market.
Member Comments