There is much in the news and Internet about Hoodia, and if you are interested in weight loss you have probably had your inbox inundated with diet aids and pills featuring this miracle plant. But what is Hoodia and how does it work?

Hoodia Gordonii is a cactus like plant which grows in the Kalahari in South Africa. It is rather ugly, but flourishes in the high desert temperatures and takes a long time to grow to maturity. For years it has been used by the bushmen of South Africa to stave off hunger during long hunting trips, but it's benefit as a diet aid to the western world has only recently come to light.

Upon routine testing in South Africa, Hoodia was found to contain a molecule called P.57. This molecule sends signals to certain nerve cells in the mid-brain that register blood glucose levels, telling them that you are full and have just eaten, even if you have not. By suppressing the appetite naturally there are no side effects and no withdrawal symptoms when you stop using it. Research has found that obese people who take a Hoodia supplement will dramatically reduce their calorie intake without any problem.

As with any diet aid you should seek medical advice before embarking upon a diet, especially if you are obese. People with diabetes should be very careful as Hoodia does affect blood glucose levels and this could mean their glucose levels could drop dangerously low without the normal warning signs. Another consideration is that Hoodia also suppresses the need to drink, leading to dehydration which could mean serious complications if not noticed.

As a rule Hoodia should not be taken by children, pregnant or nursing women and anyone who has an unpecified liver or kidney complaint. And if you are at all unsure you must seek medical advice before embarking on your diet plan.

This said Hoodia does seem to be that mythical diet aid that we are all searching for - for once there could be gain without pain!