Introduction to the Debate over Hoodia

By now almost everyone has heard mention of the hoodia ‘wonder plant’, or as it is inappropriately titled, the hoodia ‘cactus.’ Easy diet solutions are always in demand and the hoodia plant is being thrown right in the mix.

The hoodia is in the family Apocynaceae with H. gordonii being the species specifically used in the weight loss market. The plant is roughly 3-5 inches tall and grows in a cluster formation in southern Africa. It is used as a dietary suppressant by the San people of the area in order to force them their bodies to consume less during dry specials for food. The plant also features a handful of small circular flowers, with a flesh like appearance, and texture. To add to the morbidity they also often smell of rotting meat.

Once it was easily discovered that these plants had potential to be marketed as a weight loss supplement, Pfizer isolated the active ingredient called P57 and began marketing under their trademark. Although minimal, the San people do see some profits from their local medicinal plant. Since then hundreds of other companies have jumped on the band wagon. Now, all Hoodia sp. are being utilized. Since the explosion of interest and demand for these products, wild crafted specimens began demanding a premium, thus the plants have become monitored and controlled in the international market.

To this day there is little to no scientific evidence to suggest that P57 has any effect on appetite suppression. Furthermore, there is even less evidence to suggest this from commercially cultivated specimens. So why the hurry and rush for these items? They are actually quite expensive, comparative to other weight loss supplements. Most thermogenics are at a relatively similar price, and many off brands are cheaper. Multivitamins, green tea, fish oils, and the like can all be purchased for less. The lowest price I saw for hoodia supplements was marked down to $12 for a 7 day supply, based on an expiration date. Price is not a factor, but rather ease. This is another get slim quick item. It requires no work, no sacrifice, just a bit of extra money.

What do you think about this topic? How does this affect the San people? Is money enough for them to be compensated for the damage and loss of their plant? Will a large enough market emerge for the growth of the hoodia to become something as commonly cultivated as a tea or coffee? Is it ethical to purchase these items? Should one attempt to grow their own? These and many other questions need to be answered in the further research of this plant and its benefits. It is important to remember that these plants work just well for the San people, for many generations they have. Why do they not help westerners?

If you are interested in doing further research on hoodia or even growing your own please visit the following links:

Karoo Hoodia

Before You Buy Hoodia Cactus Seeds

Breaking Hoodia Info

African Shaman Hoodia Seed for Sale