There are at least twenty types of hoodia plants, but only the gordonii variety, with its cactus-like spines, is succulent.

This hoodia plant has been used for centuries as a way to suppress hunger and quench thirst. But medical scientists believe that there is more to hoodia gordonii; in fact, they believe it can actually solve the world’s obesity problem. This has started the buzz about the weight loss attributes of hoodia gordonii, perhaps as a dietary supplement for weight loss.

Many testimonials from people who have taken hoodia diet pills have shown that the plant really works, suppresses appetite and works wonders if you are fasting. Testimonials from some hoodia users claim that they have been without food for 56 hours, but still do not feel hungry or thirsty. Powders made from hoodia gordonii contain some fiber, organic matter, and antioxidants. One of the most important active substances are steroid glycosides, molecules that make the brain think that the stomach is full, a sensation similar to having eaten.

Hoodia gordonii controls calorie intake, resulting in weight loss. Scientific studies have shown that hoodia can suppress your appetite, thus helping you lose weight. Results from laboratory and clinical experiments show that both humans and animals automatically control their food intake after taking hoodia. Obese people who have experimented with hoodia have significantly reduced their caloric intake. Just think of the effect on people who only need to lose one pound every three days.

Several health problems have been linked to obesity, including high blood pressure, high blood cholesterol, and insulin resistance. There are also diabetes-related cases that affect more than 70 million Americans. The hoodia plant can actually help control overeating and diabetes, as it has the ability to control appetite and promote weight loss.

You can’t really question the efficacy and safety of the hoodia plant; just ask the San bushmen, who have been eating hoodia for the past two centuries. These plants have kept them alive during famines and have helped them survive long hunting expeditions without eating any other food.