Hoodia is a succulent plant from South Africa used by the African Bushmen as an appetite suppressant. It became popular in the West as a weight loss aid, but its effectiveness has not been scientifically proven. The active ingredient, P57, was isolated by Pfizer but they abandoned plans to market it. The export of hoodia gordonii is largely prohibited, and the medical profession warns against prolonged use without proper studies.
Hoodia is a succulent native to South Africa that resembles a flowering cactus, although it is actually in the genus Apocynaceae. The plant grows about three feet (1 meter) tall and has large, colorful flowers that emit a pungent odor. The hoodia gordinii species has supposedly been used by the African Bushmen for almost 20,000 years as an appetite suppressant during long hunts. Chewing the flesh and peel of this plant is said to quench thirst, create feelings of satiety, and provide energy.
Due to its apparent appetite suppressing qualities, hoodia became popular in the West as an herbal weight loss aid. The demand this created resulted in the plants being placed under protected status in many South African countries. The export of hoodia gordonii is largely prohibited, although some channels remain.
The active ingredients in hoodia were isolated by the American pharmaceutical company Pfizer and named “P57.” Pfizer reportedly had plans to synthesize P57 and market the product as an obesity treatment. In 2002, Pfizer abandoned the plan and released the rights to the ingredients. This caused some to speculate on the feasibility of the purported benefits of the plant. As recently as March 9, 2006, the Seattle Times reported that Pfizer claimed that P57 was too difficult to synthesize.
It is interesting to note that, as of mid-2006, there is no scientific research on this plant involving human trials. Sources cite a single animal study as the only known research to date. Even so, it was popular enough that, in 2004, it would have garnered the attention of 60 Minutes. Correspondent Lesley Stahl made the trip to South Africa to try hoodia gordinii. When mealtimes came and went without the usual “tang,” she said of her experience, “I’d have to say it worked.”
Despite historical and more anecdotal indications of hoodia’s effectiveness in suppressing appetite, the medical profession is quick to point out that without proper studies, no one knows whether prolonged use could have adverse effects. Consumer Reports evaluated it in early 2006, but without medical research, it wouldn’t endorse it.
The potency and purity of hoodia gordinii extract varies from brand to brand, but it is supplied in a capsule or liquid. Quality meat and shell usually come from South Africa and should have at least a 20:1 potency factor. At this potency, common doses range from 500mg to 3000mg per day, divided into three doses taken 30 to 60 minutes before a meal. Even with the lack of clinical research, many consumers decide to try these supplements in conjunction with a sensible diet and exercise plan. Before engaging in any new diet, it is generally best to consult your doctor.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
