Hoodia - Kalahari Cactus

Hoodia - Kalahari Cactus

Hoodia gordonii
Apocynaceae
Common Names: hoodia, Kalahari cactus, Xhoba 


Hoodia is a flowering, cactus-like plant native to the Kalahari Desert in southern Africa. Its harvest is protected by conservation laws. Historically, Kalahari Bushmen ate hoodia stems to reduce their hunger and thirst during long hunts. Today, the main folk use of hoodia is as an appetite suppressant for weight loss. 

Used instead of taking food on hunting trips, South African bushmen rely on Hoodia to suppress hunger and alleviate thirst. Sucking on pieces of Hoodia plant along the way is often chosen over carrying food which makes them better able to weather the affects of their environment. 

Today, hoodia is marketed as an appetite suppressant for weight loss. 

Dried extracts of hoodia stems and roots are used to make capsules, powders, and chewable tablets. Hoodia can also be used in liquid extracts and teas.  
Hoodia products often contain other herbs or minerals, such as green tea or chromium picolinate. 

There is no reliable scientific evidence to support hoodia’s use. No studies of the herb in people have been published.