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What
is Hoodia Gondonii? The Hoodia Gondonii also known as Queen of the
Namib or Bushman's Hat is a wild growing, succulent plant reaching a
height of 1 metre. The plant is characterised by clumps of grass green
upright stems, large pink to purple coloured flowers and overall spiny
and leafless appearance. When chewed the plant produces a very bitter
tasting juice. The plants' flowers smell anything but rosy with a scent
resembling that of rotten meat. There are more than 13 types of hoodia
available. Flies are the plants' main pollinators. In terms of South
African classifications Hoodia Gondonii is considered a foodstuff.
Hoodia Species
- Hoodia species are Hoodia alstonii, Hoodia cactus, Hoodia flava,
Hoodia dregei, Hoodie currorii, Hoodia gordonii, Hoodia juttae, Hoodia
mossamedensis, Hoodia officinalis, Hoodia parviflora, Hoodia triebneri,
Hoodia Ruschii, Hoodia pilifera and Hoodia Pedicellata.
Plant Origin
- The plant originates from the most southern tip of the African
continent, in semi to very dry desert regions of South Africa,
Botswana, Angola and Namibia in plain and rocky areas. The San tribe
was the first to discover and use the plant mainly for appetite suppressing during long trips and journeys.
Licensed -
Hoodia Gondonii is a protected plant which may only be cultivated and
exported by individuals who have been granted a licence to do so by the
South African Government.
Medicinal Benefits of the Plant
- Hoodia Gondonii boasts with wonderful medicinal benefits including
treatment of small infections, indigestion and the ability to suppress
appetite up to 24 hours and reduce calorie intake by up to 1000 a day
as well as enhancing your mood. All these benefits can be attributed to
an ingredient referred to as the P57 molecule. The molecule has an
glucose imitating effect on brains' nerve cells, making the body think
it's not hungry.
Side-Effects
- Few known side-effects have been identified with the consumption of
the plant. However there is very little information on the plants'
effects after long-term use. Dehydration is a major problem that can
possibly be encountered due to the plants suppression of both hunger
and thirst. Researcher have also found some unwanted effects on the
liver and kidney functions. Diabetics should steer clear from Hoodia as
the plant is proven to have an effect on the blood sugar levels.
Where can I find Hoodia? - Hoodia Gondonii
can be found at you local health store, pharmacy or online in the form
of liquid, tea, coffee, powder, syrup, shakes, lollipops, fruit bars,
liquid concentrates and capsules. It is important to check that only pure Hoodia
is contained in whatever form you decide upon. A lot of imitations are
on the market so it's only to your own advantage to make sure you get
the real deal.
Consult with your Physician
- It is absolutely essential for you to consult with your physician
before the initiating any treatment containing the plant or extracts of
the plant especially if you are pregnant, nursing or suffer from liver
or kidney diseases. Dieters should also exercise caution with Hoodia
usage until more solid proof has been found on the safety of the
plant.
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