A Research Institute, CSIR, started a study on Pure Hoodia Gordonii, a succulent growing wild in the Kalahari Desert. This plant has a status amongst the San tribe as a hunger suppressant. They use to chew up this plant during their long hunting- expeditions to prevent appetite. CSIR isolated the active molecule, named it P57 and patented it in 1997. They sold the rights to a British company, Phytopharm, in 1998 to market the product.

In a blend test, performed by Phytopharm, 400 mg per day of Hoodia Gordonii powder, for 15 days, reduced the calorie intake by 1,000 calorie compared to the control group. Pills, Capsules, diet gum and tincture all followed. To avoid patent violation, many companies claim that their product is a food supplement, an aid for weight loss.

Phytopharm teamed with Pfizer of USA, a pharmaceutical MNC, to produce P57 synthetically and market the Hoodia Gordonii product. One of the companies marketing the Hoodia capsule is Pure Hoodia, with a registered trademark. They claim that each capsule contains 400 mg of Pure Hoodia Gordonii, imported legally from South Africa, grown in privately owned farms. The recommended dose is 1-2 capsules an hour before each meal. They make claim that it is not a drug, and can be undoubtedly used for weight loss. An independent consumer guidance came out with the truth that Pure Hoodia capsules do not have 400mg of powder, as claimed by the company, but less than that.

It is important to note that there are more than twenty different varieties of hoodia, but only Hoodia Gordonii is believed to contain the natural appetite suppressant. Some companies may be selling products that are purported to contain the African hoodia cactus, but if it is not Hoodia Gordonii, then it may not work. As with all health supplements, it is best to buy hoodia products from a reputable company that sells a complete line of products. In addition, dieters are advised to remember to drink plenty of water since hoodia suppresses thirst, as well as appetite.

By any name, the African hoodia cactus is a beautiful plant. Flowers are pale purple and appear after the plant reaches maturity. Even though dieters would love to have a large immediate supply, it is important to protect the wild African hoodia cactus from over-harvesting, so that it can be enjoyed by future generations.

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