hoodia gordonii

**Hoodia gordonii** is a succulent desert plant native to Southern Africa, historically used by San people as an appetite suppressant during long hunting trips. In modern commerce, it is primarily marketed as a **dietary supplement** for weight loss[1][3][8]. The active molecules isolated from Hoodia gordonii include the pregnane glycoside **P57**, claimed to suppress appetite via effects in the brain, and **Gordonoside F**, which has been shown to activate the **GPR119 receptor**, facilitating glucose-stimulated insulin secretion and influencing food intake in preclinical models[4][6]. Despite promising preclinical data, clinical evidence in humans is limited and largely negative regarding efficacy for weight loss, with several studies citing significant adverse effects including elevations in blood pressure, heart rate, nausea, vomiting, and skin reactions[1][5][7][8]. The mechanism of appetite suppression is primarily attributed to agonist activity at **GPR119** and possible sympathomimetic effects via **β-adrenergic receptors**[4][7]. Regulatory agencies such as the FDA have not approved hoodia gordonii for any indication due to lack of evidence for safety and effectiveness.

Brand names

HoodiaHoodia Gordonii

Other names

hoodiahoodia gordonii extract