The Hoodia gordonii plant is classified as a succulent, which is a botanical that is similar to a cactus, but produces flowers. Growing to a maximum of 6 feet in height, pollination of the Hoodia plant is carried out by flies that are attracted to the unpleasant smell of its flowers. The Hoodia cactus takes approximately 5 years to harvest. It is called Xhoba by the San people of the Kalahari, while Hoodia gordonii is the common plant name. Native to the semi-arid regions of South Africa , the Hoodia gordonii cactus has been traditionally used for many years by the San Bushmen of the Kalahari as an appetite suppressant. Its ability in controlling appetite by eating the flesh from its stem is what makes Hoodia gordonii so popular today.
So, what is the science behind Hoodia gordonii as an effective weight loss solution? During the 1960s, research conducted by South Africa's Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) on indigenous plants reaffirmed that Hoodia gordonii is effective in reducing food intake on animal test subjects. Eventually, CSIR was able to isolate the molecule that was responsible for appetite suppression, naming it P57, and patenting the extraction formula and process in 1997. The patent was then licensed to Phytopharm, a British pharmaceutical company, the following year.
Becoming aware of Hoodia 's potential as a weight loss aid , Pfizer bought the rights to market and develop a weight loss tablet from the P57 extract by subleasing the patent held by Phytopharm for $21 million USD. However, the costs to extract the molecule proved to be too much for mass production. Hence, Pfizer ended the agreement in 2003 and Unilever stepped in to use Hoodia in its line of weight loss and dieting supplements in 2004. To date, neither company has yet to market any weightloss products associated with Hoodia gordonii . On several major news network programs and reports such as ABC News, BBC News, and CBS' 60 Minutes Hoodia was further publicized as one of the biggest discoveries for the weight loss market. Through these programs, the public has come to know Hoodia gordonii as an essential part of their weight loss plans . Now that you have gained some insight into what Hoodia gordonii is , the following sections will offer tips on how to buy Hoodia , possible scams, and other useful information.
Where do I buy Hoodia ?
It is important not to forget what Hoodia gordonii is, it is a protected species, and exports are under tight control from the South African government. Only several dealers are granted a license to sell Hoodia . As a result of this limited supply, it is expensive for individuals to buy Hoodia in its raw form. To allow for easy transport to international destinations, Hoodia is exported in two forms; as a liquid extract and as a powder. Either form is made into a weight loss pill or liquid that offers a solution to get slim , trim , and as a way to lose fat . However, extracts seem to be less effective because the whole plant is not used. It is believed that drying the Hoodia plant whole and then milling it into fine powder appears to be stronger than the extract because it preserves the whole plant and thus the slimming power of the Hoodia gordonii cactus .
Buyer Beware
As more and more people find out about what Hoodia gordonii is, a variety of products have come on the market claiming to be Hoodia diet pills or supplements that contain real Hoodia . With some vendors claiming their Hoodia product to be the best weight loss pill on the market, these Hoodia pills should be purchased with caution as many only contain only trace amounts of the plant itself, and are not enough to suppress your appetite. You should also be wary of other products that feature titles such as rapid weight loss pills , as many have ingredients that act as “fillers” to make the pill sound more powerful instead of including genuine Hoodia natural diet pills.
Also, many websites will try to feature a Hoodia review with a list of rankings that tell consumers which products contain real Hoodia gordonii and which do not. However, these websites are mainly biased and represent an inaccurate ranking of which Hoodia diet pill works best for you. In summary, be cautious of weight loss pills that claim to contain pure Hoodia unless you can be certain that the company has proof that they are purchasing their Hoodia from a licensed distributor. Most reputable weight loss or diet pills dealers will offer a money-back guarantee if you are not satisfied with their product. And, if you're not sure what Hoodia gordonii is best for your dieting plans, the main criteria to watch for is the authenticity of the Hoodia and its source. Click here for more details on these and other Hoodia scams.
Are there any Hoodia side effects ?
Hoodia gordonii is a natural botanical that is not associated with any side effects, unlike ephedra, which has been associated with heart damage. However, it is recommended that you consult with your physician before starting on your Hoodia weight loss plan or weight loss diet . Now that you know more about what Hoodia gordonii is , we hope you find success in your dieting plans. However, keep in mind that Hoodia is not the magic bullet to solving all your problems. It is only a tool in modifying your eating habits and helping you step into a healthier lifestyle. Find out if you are suitable for Hoodia under our FAQs section. Click here for more tips on making changes for a healthier lifestyle Canada ! Or check out the websites below, which offer suggestions on healthy eating for weight loss in Canada and the U.S.
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