About the South African Hoodia Gordonii
The South African Hoodia Gordonii Cactus is known by
many names. It is called xshoba or xhooba by the San Bushmen who have
used it to treat indigestion, minor skin infections and as an appetite
and thirst suppressant during long hunts. The scientific name is Hoodia
Gordonii. It is actually a succulent so the names Hoodia cactus and
South African desert cactus are actually misnomers, but they are
commonly used. The plant resembles a cactus when seen growing wild in
the Kalahari Desert.
There are problems associated with growing the South African Hoodia
cactus for commercial purposes. First, logically, is temperature. In
order to thrive the Hoodia cactus requires desert like temperatures.
Second is time. It takes four or five years for the African Hoodia
Gordonii cactus to reach full maturity. Quantities of the wild plant
are extremely limited and are protected by the governments of South
Africa from harvesting. Phytopharm, the first company to research the
properties of the African hoodia cactus, has established plantations in
South Africa, but will not begin to sell their patented product for at
least a couple of years.
It is important to note that there are more than twenty different
varieties of hoodia, but only Hoodia Gordonii is believed to contain
the natural appetite suppressant. Some companies may be selling
products that are purported to contain the African hoodia cactus, but
if it is not Hoodia Gordonii, then it may not work. As with all health
supplements, it is best to buy hoodia products from a reputable company
that sells a complete line of products. In addition, dieters are
advised to remember to drink plenty of water since hoodia suppresses
thirst, as well as appetite.
By any name, the African hoodia cactus is a beautiful plant. Flowers
are pale purple and appear after the plant reaches maturity. Even
though dieters would love to have a large immediate supply, it is
important to protect the wild African hoodia cactus from
over-harvesting, so that it can be enjoyed by future generations.