Description

The hoodia plant is one that looks like a cactus. It is a member of the milkweed family and originates from the Kalahari Desert. It is mistakenly called a cactus, but is really a succulent plant. The species that actually contributes to suppressing appetite and weight loss is the h. gordonii.

It has the texture of a cucumber, but is slightly bitter. It has been used it salads or other side item, usually eaten raw maybe with salt or dipped in a dip or dressing.

Parts Used

The innermost and latex part of the plant is where the steroidal glycoside (P57 enzyme) is found. This has been tested and proven effective as an appetite suppressant on animals. This inner part of the hoodia gordonii plant is found once the spiny portion of the stem is removed.

Availability

This plant is only found in certain geographical locations. It is considered to be potentially endangered so there are strong regulations set in place. You need to have a C.I.T.E.S. Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species) certificate if you want to become licensed to export it.

Growth Cycle

This plant actually takes about five years to grow. Once it matures, purple flowers mature and this is when the plan can be harvested for use. Since the growth cycle of it is so long, researching it is hard work.

However, historically it was used by ancient tribes on long hunting trips. It has long been used to curb hunger during long stretches between meals. Therefore, if it worked for them it should work for you today.

Some people have complained about this thinking the reason why is because of government conspiracy. That will be another topic for another time-not at this time for this blog entry.

Right now the biggest reason why the FDA has not approved it yet is because it has been associated with at least minor liver problems. This is an issue that need to be further explored before it is officially approved.

So why is the research process taking so long?

Well, that is simply because it takes so long for the plant source to mature-up to five years. It is only the flowering portion of the mature hoodia gordonii source that is at all helpful and this is what most needs attention in the research lab. The research process is slow going but scientists, herbalists, and other professionals have not given up.