[Chlug] What is Hoodia?

[Sanjohan]

Dear Customer,

Hoodia is a succulent native to South Africa that resembles a flowering
cactus, though it is actually of the genus Apocynaceae. The plant grows
about three feet (1 meter) in height and has large colorful flowers that
emit a pungent odor. In the hoodia family, the species hoodia gordinii
has purportedly been used by African bushmen for nearly 20,000 years as
an appetite suppressant while on long hunts. Chewing on hoodia meat and
rind is said to quench the thirst, create feelings of satiation, and
provide energy.

Because of the apparent appetite suppressing qualities of hoodia, it
became popular in the West as an herbal weight loss aid. The demand this
created for South African hoodia resulted in the plants being placed
under protective status in many South African countries. Exportation of
hoodia gordonii is largely forbidden, though some channels remain.

The active ingredients in hoodia were isolated by United States
pharmaceutical giant Pfizer and dubbed “P57.” Pfizer reportedly had
plans to synthesize P57 and market the product as a treatment for
obesity. In 2002, Pfizer abandoned the plan and released the rights to
the ingredients. This caused some to speculate about the viability of
hoodia’s alleged benefits. As recently as 9 March 2006, the Seattle
Times reported that Pfizer claimed P57 was too difficult to synthesize. 

It is interesting to note that, as of mid-2006, there is no scientific
research involving human trials and hoodia. Sources quote a single
animal study as the only known research to date. Even so, hoodia was
popular enough that, by 2004, it had attracted the attention of
newsmagazine 60 Minutes. Correspondent Lesley Stahl made the trek to
South Africa to try hoodia gordinii herself. When mealtime came and went
without the usual “pang,” she said of her experience, “I’d have to say
it worked.”

Despite the historical and more anecdotal indications of hoodia’s
effectiveness in suppressing appetite, the medical profession is quick
to point out that without proper studies, no one knows if prolonged use
of hoodia might have adverse effects. Consumer Reports evaluated hoodia
in early 2006, but without medical research, would not endorse it.

The potency and purity of hoodia gordinii extract varies from brand to
brand, but is supplied in a capsule or liquid. Quality hoodia gordinii
is from South Africa and should have at least a 20:1 potency factor. At
this potency, common doses range from 500mg to 3000mg per day, broken up
into three doses taken 30 to 60 minutes before a meal. Even with the
lack of clinical research on hoodia gordinii, many consumers are
deciding to try hoodia along with a reasonable diet and exercise plan.
Before engaging in any new diet regimen, it is generally wisest to
consult your doctor. 

Regards,
Sanjohan - www.sanjohan.com <http://www.sanjohan.com> 
E-mail: info at sanjohan.com <mailto:info at sanjohan.com> 
Tel: +27 21 873 7124
Fax: +27 21 873 7124



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