Is Hoodia a Stimulant?

Hoodia, a flowering cactus-like herb from southern Africa's Kalahari Desert, has traditionally been used by Kalahari Bushmen during long hunting excursions to decrease their hunger and thirst. The herb is now popular as an appetite suppressant.

Forms

• Hoodia is available as a powder, capsule, liquid extract or tablet made from the plant's roots and stems.

Stimulants

• According to Oregon State University, true hoodia does not work as a stimulant. Read supplement labels carefully, however, as some hoodia pills may contain stimulants like ephedrine, caffeine or guarana.

Efficacy

• The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) cautions that no reliable clinical evidence exists to support the use of hoodia.

Side Effects

• Researchers have not yet determined the possible negative effects of hoodia. Its side effects, risks and drug interactions have not been proven as of 2009.

Considerations

• As of 2009, the safety of hoodia is unknown. Hoodia products vary in quality; some hoodia products do not contain hoodia at all, according to the NCCAM.