Hoodia
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Hoodia is a genus in the plant family Apocynaceae, in the part of the family previously treated as a separate family Asclepiadaceae. They are stem succulents that can reach up to 1 m high and present exuberant flowers, often with flesh colour and strong smell. Hoodias are protected plants, typical of the Namib Desert, ranging from Central Namibia to southern Angola, especially in plains and rocky areas. Common names include "Bushmans Hat" and "Queen of the Namib".
The medicinal use of Hoodia is long known by the indigenous populations of Southern Africa, who use these plants for treating indigestion and small infections. Recently the pharmaceutical companies discovered that Hoodia extracts can be used to lower blood pressure and reduce the appetite. This breakthrough research lead to such a demand for Hoodia plants, that a protected status was imposed in several countries like Namibia.
The native Bushmans name for this plant is Xshoba.
Hoodias are also grown as garden plants.
External links
- Hoodia Gordonii Buyers Guide complete with facts, personal diet results, buyers checklist, side effects, dosage, scientific case studies, and pictures (http://hoodiagordoniiguide.com)
- Hoodia Information Resource (http://www.hoodiaoutlet.com/abouthoodia.htm)nl:Hoodia