Hoodia Gordonii is a succulent plant that grows in the Kalahari Desert in South Africa and Namibia, and has been used medicinally by the indigenous San Busmen to fight hunger and thirst during extended hunting expeditions, due to its appetite suppressant properties.

The obesity explosion is the most pressing health issue of our time, with modern medication having an array of adverse health effects, and is disappointingly limited in treating this “disease”. So the hunt for an effective alternative remedy has led researchers to Hoodia Gordonii.

The metamorphosis of Hoodia from a bushman’s diet to global recognition in the fight against obesity could not have happened without some kind of evidence and results.

Although Hoodia is still not FDA approved, and further studies would be desirable, there seems to be little doubt as to the effectiveness and safety of Hoodia as a weight loss aid when combined with a nutritious diet, exercise, and good hydration. The problem is that an estimated two thirds of all Hoodia available is either counterfeit or contains very little of the P57 ingredient.

The C.I.T.E.S. (Convention on the International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora) certificate is being displayed to indicate authenticity by many sellers of Hoodia, and while it is a necessary requirement, independent laboratory certificates are the only way to ensure that you are buying genuine Hoodia, and a one example of a supplier with all the necessary certification is Desert Burn. It’s also suggested that only Hoodia powder or liquid is effective, and gimmicky items such as patches, snack bars and gum are probably best avoided.