What is Hoodia Gordonii?

Hoodia Gordonii is a cactus-like plant with medicinal uses, growing naturally in Namibia and South Africa. Originally the plant was used by the indigenous of the area to treat indigestion and infections. However, Hoodia Gordonii has recently been marketed as an appetite suppressant.

Claims Made about Hoodia Gordonii

There is no published scientific evidence that Hoodia works as an appetite suppressant in humans. There has been animal research done (on rats, what else?). The author of the study said that Hoodia (also known as P57) was easily broken down by the liver, which put into question whether a Hoodia Gordonii supplement could contain enough of the active ingredient to have an impact on appetite suppression.

Authenticity of Hoodia Gordonii

It is illegal to export Hoodia from Africa with a CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora) certificate. Consumers should look for evidence that a manufacturer has a CITES certificate. Also, a report from an independent testing lab verifying the authenticity of the Hoodia allegedly contained in the diet supplement should be provided.

Hoodia Gordonii Conclusion

While the jury is still out on the efficacy of Hoodia Gordonii (anecdotal evidence can be found in abundance on the internet), it may prove to be beneficial. It’s important for the consumer to verify that the manufacturer is exporting Hoodia legally and that the Hoodia is authentic. (If a website claims that it’s authentic, that means nothing. They need to prove that it’s authentic.