Side Effects Of Hoodia Gordonii Extract

Used by native Africans to prevent hunger and thirst, the succulent with the Latin name Hoodia gordonii gained international popularity as an appetite suppressant. According to the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, randomized, double-blind studies in humans must be completed to support this use. In addition, safety remains unconfirmed due to lack of evidence regarding side effects, risks and possible interactions with medications. In addition to possible side effects from hoodia gordonii extracts, some preparations may contain non-hoodia compounds that result in additional side effects.

Temporary Blood Sugar Increase

Carbohydrate metabolism produces the primary form of energy for the body. The body stores excess sugar in the form of glycogen. During exercise or periods of limited food intake, the body uses glycogen for energy. According to Dr. Stephen Holt and Dr. Thomas Taylor, hoodia gordonii may result in a temporary increase in blood sugar due to glycogen breakdown, though research is needed.

Reduced Stomach Acid

Stomach complaints range from indigestion to severe pain from erosion of the stomach lining and ulceration resulting from stomach acid production. Reported in the "Townsend Letter," animal studies indicate some chemicals in hoodia gordonii extract reduce stomach acid secretion by 43 percent. Research must be completed to determine safety and effectiveness in humans.

Excess Weight Loss

While maintaining a healthy weight for body size provides health benefits, weight-loss supplements could be misused by individuals with eating disorders or by those already at a healthy weight. According to Holt and Taylor, animal studies show hoodia gordonii extracts reduce body fat in both obese and lean rats and in human observation of obese patients. The use of hoodia gordonii reduced calorie intake, producing weight loss without following a diet plan. Randomized, double-blind studies haven't provided conclusive evidence of either mechanism of action or safety.

Liver Problems

The liver clears toxins from the blood and removes them from the body. In an opinion letter to the editor in "The New York Times", researcher Jasjit S. Bindra states compounds in hoodia cause liver side effects.

Allergic Reactions

According to "The Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine," natural plant components in hoodia gordonii extract may cause allergic reactions in susceptible individuals. Stop taking the supplement and seek medical help for symptoms of allergy, including swelling of the throat or mouth, difficulty breathing, rash, and severe itching.