One major question that many of us ask about Hoodia Gordonii is “what are the side effects”. This question should be asked be for you start to use it to lose weight. Unfortunately, there haven’t been many documented tests done on Hoodia Gordonii and no long term studies. However, there is an abundance of information that should put your mind at ease.

Is Hoodia Safe?

Hoodia Gordonii is an all natural herb and is labeled as a food and not a drug. This alone should ease your mind a little. Most places including supermarkets and drugstores that sell Hoodia, sell it as an herbal supplement. Hoodia has a long history that originates in South Africa and has been used as an appetite suppressant by the San Bushmen for thousands of years; that in its self should be compelling enough evidence to convince you of its safety. The San Bushmen use the plant to suppress their appetites while on long expeditions and consider it a vital part of their diet. Hoodia Gordonii is now just leaving its origins of South Africa to be distributed to the rest of the world, with this information most consider Hoodia Gordonii to be safe.

The Side Effects

Many appetite suppressants contain stimulants such as caffeine that are known to increase heart rate and unpleasant side effects. Hoodia Gordonii does not contain caffeine or any other type of stimulant and therefore does not increase heart rates. Phytopharm, a British pharmaceutical company, conducted on of the only documented clinical studies on Hoodia and listed it as having no side effects. This supplement is known to reduce caloric intake and to suppress the appetite, but it also decreases the want for water, it is very important to stay well hydrated while taking this supplement. As with any type of supplement, abuse or misuse of Hoodia Gordonii can be hazardous to your health. Read all directions carefully and follow the instructions listed on the label.

Is Hoodia for Everyone?

It has been proven that Hoodia Gordonii is relatively safe but it is not for everyone. Pregnant or lactating women should not take Hoodia Gordonii. Children and those with eating disorders should not take Hoodia Gordonii. Also, anyone taking other herbs or botanicals food for ingestion will be at risk for an allergic reaction, though none have been reported. Other concerns include people taking other medications, there has been no information published on Hoodia Gordonii and other medication interactions so it is important to first talk to your doctor before you take Hoodia Gordonii for weight loss.