Hoodia

Hoodia, or Hoodia Gordonii, is a fleshy succulent plant which resembles a cactus. It is believed by many to suppress the appetite of those who take it, thus leading to weight loss. The plant originated in South Africa, where native bush people have been using it for years to stave off feelings of hunger and thirst.http://www.webmd.com/diet/guide/hoodia-lots-of-hoopla-little-science

Hoodia has become popular in American culture in recent years, and it is being imported from South Africa and processed into the form of pills, liquids and even chewable supplements. Hoodia is available in many health food stores, and is also sold through a number of websites (many of which send out mass email advertisements).http://www.webmd.com/diet/guide/hoodia-lots-of-hoopla-little-science

Although there is plenty of anecdotal evidence claiming that hoodia is effective at reducing hunger in those who take it, the claims made by many hoodia manufacturers and distributors have yet to be backed up by solid scientific testing.

Because hoodia is not labeled as a medicine but instead as a dietary supplement, it has not been required to gain the approval of the FDA. However, the FDA has stepped in in some cases and informed hoodia companies that they must stop making bold, unsubstantiated claims about the efficacy of the supplement.http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/hoodia/AN01182

In addition to the lack of proof of hoodia's actual weight loss potential, it is not known how safe this supplement is as no scientifically sound studies have been conducted as of yet.http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/hoodia/AN01182

The content on this page is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please contact your doctor before taking Hoodia.