Hoodia, a cactus native to Africa, has become a popular weight loss supplement in the U.S. A special done by CBS and 60 minutes in 2004 reported on its powerful effects as an appetite suppressant. CBS Correspondent Lesley Stahl went to Africa to try the herb out for herself. Although bitter-tasting, she claimed it effectively took away her appetite without the typical side effects of other stimulates used for weight loss, such as Ephedra.
History of Hoodia
Hoodia was discovered by aboriginal Bushmen of the Kalahari in Africa. "Xhobo," as the bushmen call it, grows in the desert areas of Botswana, Namibia and South Africa. They began using it to feed their animals, but soon noticed that the animals were losing weight. The bushmen in Africa have been using the plant for hundreds of years to sustain them on long journeys. It helps to energize the body and relieve hunger pangs when food is scarce. Some native tribes in Africa have also used the cactus to treat cramps, hemorrhoids, tuberculosis, indigestion, hypertension and even diabetes.
Research
Research on Hoodia began in the 1960s. According to researchers at Phytopharm, "the active ingredient in Hoodia...acts on the brain in a manner similar to glucose and sends the message that you are full." Trials were conducted with human volunteers and found that obese patients who took Hoodia ate an average of 1,000 calories less each day. They did not report any remarkable side effects. Scientists in Africa refer to the cactus as Hoodia gordonii, and discovered the main chemical constituent of the plant, P57, is the molecule responsible for reducing hunger.
Side Effects
Most weight-loss supplements on the market today contain stimulants. Caffeine and caffeine-containing herbs such as kola nut and guarana are common ingredients. While they do provide a temporary burst of energy, stimulants also have some negative side effects, including jitteriness, increased heart rate, irritability, restlessness and insomnia. However, Hoodia appears to have none of these typical effects. Other than a distinct bitter taste, there are no other known side effects.
Warnings
Because herbs and nutritional supplements are not regulated by the FDA or other government agency, there is no guarantee that Hoodia weight-loss products contain the active ingredient in Hoodia. In fact, in 2003 the BBC reported that it tested the "leading brand of Hoodia pills" sold in the U.S., and the pills contained no trace of Hoodia whatsoever. Because Hoodia thrives in extreme desert conditions and takes years to mature, the plant is in high demand. Beware of the many commercial products claiming to contain Hoodia.
Individuals who are underweight or who have been diagnosed with an eating disorder, should not take Hoodia or other weight-loss supplements. Always consult a physician or healthcare practitioner before taking Hoodia or any other herb.
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