What Actually Is Hoodia Gordonii?

Hoodia plants are not cacti, they are succulents, but most people think of them as cacti. There are at least 15 different species in the hoodia genus but only the hoodia gordonii species is believed to be a natural appetite suppressant.

Hoodia gordonii, sometimes incorrectly spelled as hoodia gordoniii or gordini, is one of the hoodia plants found in southern Africa. This plant is often found growing in the sands of the Kalahari Desert, but sometimes appears in dry stony areas, growing under or near other dessert plants and bushes.

Hoodia gordonii is not threatened with extinction at this time, but the government feel that it may become threatened due to over harvesting. Hoodia gordonii has become an increasingly popular ingredient for appetite suppressants. The other hoodia plants are not believed to have any appetite suppressing effects, but their appearance is the same. The government is concerned that the wrong hoodia plants will be harvested and sold. Because of this, trade regulations for all hoodia plants have been established and permission is required to grow, sell or export hoodia gordonii or any other species.

Some reporters referred to the plants as ugly, but the blooms can be quite beautiful and horticulturists have long been interested in cultivating the plants. Though lovely the blooms, they have a very strong spell. The smell of the hoodia gordonii blooms have been likened to that of rotting meat. The blooms differ in color from pale pink to dark maroon or light purple. The blooms of other hoodia plants differ in size, shape and color.

Interest in the many species of hoodia plants is certain to increase as news of the natural appetite suppressant spreads throughout the world. Africa Hoodia is available online.