Hoodia Gordonii Stem Extract
Also known as: Hoodia gordonii, Hoodia, Kalahari cactus, Xhoba
Overview
Hoodia gordonii is a succulent plant native to Southern Africa, traditionally used by the San people to suppress appetite during long hunting trips. As a dietary supplement, it's marketed as a natural appetite suppressant and weight loss aid. The primary active component is a steroidal glycoside known as P57, believed to influence appetite regulation. While Hoodia contains various metabolites, research primarily focuses on P57's anorexigenic effects. Available in various forms like tablets, capsules, and powders, its efficacy and safety remain subjects of debate. Research on Hoodia gordonii is moderate, but the quality of evidence is mixed, with some studies showing no significant weight loss effects and others indicating potential adverse effects. Further high-quality clinical trials are needed to determine its efficacy and safety in humans.
Benefits
Clinical trials have not demonstrated significant weight loss benefits from Hoodia gordonii. A study by Blom et al. found no effect on body weight, body fat, or energy intake in overweight women after 15 days of use. An animal study showed weight loss in rats, but this effect is not directly transferable to humans. Some research suggests Hoodia may influence appetite by increasing hypothalamic ATP production and initiating cholecystokinin secretion. However, the clinical significance of these findings is uncertain. Overall, current evidence does not strongly support the use of Hoodia gordonii as an effective weight loss supplement.
How it works
Hoodia gordonii is thought to suppress appetite primarily through its active compound, P57. P57 is believed to act on the hypothalamus in the brain, potentially increasing ATP production and influencing appetite regulation. Additionally, it may stimulate the release of cholecystokinin (CCK), a hormone that signals satiety to the brain via the vagus nerve. Oral administration of Hoodia extract leads to extensive gastric breakdown of P57, which may reduce its bioavailability and require higher doses to achieve potential effects. The exact mechanisms and extent of these interactions are still under investigation.
Side effects
The safety profile of Hoodia gordonii raises concerns due to reported adverse effects. Common side effects include headache, dizziness, nausea, increased systolic and diastolic blood pressure, and increased pulse rate. Less common side effects include electrocardiogram abnormalities and blood chemistry abnormalities, such as increased total bilirubin and alkaline phosphatase. Drug interactions have been noted with insulin, antidiabetes drugs, and antihypertensive medications, including beta-blockers. Hoodia may lower blood sugar or increase blood pressure, complicating the management of diabetes and hypertension. It is contraindicated in pregnancy and breastfeeding due to insufficient safety data. Individuals with diabetes or hypertension should exercise caution due to potential interactions and adverse effects.
Dosage
There is no established minimum effective or maximum safe dose for Hoodia gordonii due to inconsistent efficacy and safety data from clinical trials. Dosages used in studies vary widely, and there is no clear optimal range. Oral administration leads to significant gastric breakdown of the active compound P57, potentially requiring higher doses to achieve any effects. No specific timing recommendations are available. Various forms are available (tablets, capsules, gels, juices, powders), but the efficacy and safety of these forms are not well-established. Due to the lack of clear dosing guidelines and potential side effects, caution is advised when considering Hoodia gordonii supplementation.
FAQs
Is Hoodia gordonii safe for everyone?
Hoodia gordonii may not be safe for everyone, especially those with diabetes or hypertension, due to potential interactions with medications and adverse effects on blood sugar and blood pressure.
When is the best time to take Hoodia gordonii?
There is no clear guidance on the optimal timing or administration method for Hoodia gordonii, as research has not established specific recommendations.
What results can I expect from taking Hoodia gordonii?
Clinical trials have not demonstrated significant weight loss effects in humans from taking Hoodia gordonii. Claims of substantial weight loss are not supported by current evidence.
Is Hoodia gordonii an effective weight loss aid?
Despite marketing claims, Hoodia gordonii has not been proven to be an effective weight loss aid in rigorous clinical trials. Evidence supporting its use for weight loss is limited and inconsistent.
Research Sources
- https://academicjournals.org/journal/JMPR/article-full-text-pdf/A0617B120752 – This study investigates the properties of Hoodia Gordonii. It highlights the traditional uses by indigenous populations and explores the chemical composition, focusing on the active ingredient P57. The research provides a foundation for understanding the potential mechanisms of action and the need for further clinical validation.
- https://www.cdrnet.org/vault/2459/web/files/Rios-Hoyo.pdf – This resource provides an overview of Hoodia gordonii, discussing its use as an appetite suppressant and its potential benefits for weight management. It also touches on the importance of understanding the plant's chemical constituents and the need for rigorous scientific evaluation to confirm its efficacy and safety.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25066203/ – This animal study investigated the effects of Hoodia gordonii extract on weight loss in rats. The study found that Hoodia gordonii extract led to significant weight loss due to the reduction in both adipose and muscle mass. However, it is important to note that results from animal studies may not directly translate to humans.
- https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-1079/hoodia – WebMD provides general information about Hoodia, including its uses, potential side effects, and interactions. It serves as a consumer-oriented resource, summarizing available evidence and highlighting the need for caution due to limited scientific support for its weight loss claims.
- https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/11/9/2238 – This review article discusses the role of various dietary supplements in appetite regulation. While it may not focus solely on Hoodia gordonii, it provides context on the broader landscape of appetite suppressants and the challenges in identifying effective and safe natural compounds for weight management.
