How Does Hoodia Work?

Hoodia gordonii is a plant that grows in parts of South Africa. It has been used for many years to treat certain medical conditions, and is said to curb the appetite of those who are trying to limit their intake of food. The plant resembles that of a cactus, and blooms beautiful flowers that range in color from tan to red. The benefits of hoodia became extremely popular and highly demanded by the western world, causing a frenzy with the South African people, resulting in the plant being under high security.

Hoodia has worked for the ingenious people of South Africa for thousands of years. The active ingredient of the plant, P57, is said to trick the brain into thinking that the body is full, causing a decrease in appetite. This is wonderful for those who are obese and want to lose weight. However, there is absolutely no published or peer reviewed scientific evidence that proves the claims of hoodia to be true.

There has been a previous study done which really holds no merit. The active ingredient of hoodia was injected into the brains of rats, causing a lack of appetite compared to the other rats that did not receive injections. Injecting P57 into the brain is much different than orally taking a pill which contains the active ingredient. Another small group study was conducted where less than 20 people participated. One half consumed hoodia, while the other half did not. The findings were impressive, that the half who consumed hoodia ate 1,000 calories less than the placebo half. The group did not contain enough participants, and was not conducted under peer review.

If you are interested in trying hoodia to see if you experience weight loss, you must be very careful about what product you buy. There are many companies on the Internet that are offering hoodia in a powder, herbal tea, pill and liquid form, all of which are confirmed by the company as being “authentic,” however, most of these companies are selling products that contain little, 0.1% or no hoodia at all. Make sure the product that you purchase has been genuinely verified.