History of Hoodia Gordonii
Hoodia Gordonii is a succulent that looks very much like a cactus plant. Although there are 13 different species of Hoodia, it is only Hoodia Gordonii that has the amazing appetite suppressing qualities. The plants are found in the southern parts of Africa and have been used by the indigenous Bushman of South Africa to treat a number of ailments. These include indigestion, abdominal cramps, diabetes, and haemorrhoids to name a few.
The Hoodia Gordonii plant will grow to approximately one meter high and has pale purple flowers that do not appear until the plant reaches maturity. It takes about five years for a plant to mature. Many of the Hoodia species, including Gordonii are protected plants. The supply of wild plants is extremely limited, and protected from harvesting by the South African Government. To be able to satisfy the huge international demand for this product, a number of plantations have been established.
In 1937, a Dutch anthropologist studying the San Bushmen noted that they used Hoodia Gordonii to suppress appetite. It was 1963 when research on Hoodia Gordonii began by the South African CSIR, (Council for Scientific and Industrial Research). The ingredient that is responsible for its appetite suppressing powers was isolated in 1977. The ingredient, now known as P57 was patented in 1996. In 2002 the San Tribes people were officially recognized by the CSIR as having rights over Hoodia. This has allowed them to take a percentage of profits from the extensive marketing of Hoodia Gordonii.
The popularity of this appetite suppressant exploded following two media reports in the United States. First was the BBC report in 2003 and then the following year by 60 Minutes. 60 Minutes correspondent Leslie Stahl and crew traveled to Africa to try Hoodia. They hired a local Bushman to go with them into the desert and track down some Hoodia. Stahl ate it, describing it as “like a cucumber in texture, but not bad.” She reported that she lost the desire to eat or drink the entire day. She also said she didn’t experience any immediate side effects, such as indigestion or heart palpitations.
These reports indicated that Hoodia Gordonii could have a major impact on the diet industry, due to its natural appetite suppressing properties. Prior to 2003 there was very little awareness of Hoodia Gordonii. Today it is marketed worldwide in hundreds of different products.
Hoodia Gordonii can have a major impact on a persons weight loss program. It should be remembered however, that it should be used in conjunction with a balanced diet and a regular exercise routine.
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Totally agree with you Hoodia Gordonii Plus is my nr.1 recommendation as far as Hoodia supplements concerned…
Tonie @ hoodia supplement´s last blog ..Which Is The Best Hoodia Supplement for Weight Loss?
Many years later hoodia gordonii is gaining market steadily. I read that there are even companies that certify the quality of the crops to prevent fraud with the plants and the supplements.