Dr. Grey AI

Bushman's Hat

Hoodia gordonii is a succulent (often mislabeled as cactus) from South Africa marketed as an appetite suppressant. D-GRADE for appetite (no effect, 1 study, 49 participants). C-GRADE for bilirubin (small increase - potential HARM). The active compound P57 has poor bioavailability and likely cannot reach the brain at oral doses. The only independent human study showed NO appetite suppression AND potential liver toxicity. AVOID - ineffective and potentially harmful.

Quick Answer

What it is

Hoodia gordonii is a succulent (often mislabeled as cactus) from South Africa marketed as an appetite suppressant. D-GRADE for appetite (no effect, 1 study, 49 participants).

Key findings

  • Grade C: Bilirubin (Overweight)
  • Grade D: Appetite (Overweight)
  • Grade N/A: Weight (Overweight)

Safety

  • The only independent human study showed NO appetite suppression AND potential liver toxicity.
  • AVOID - ineffective and potentially harmful.
ℹ️ Quick Facts: Bushman's Hat

Quick Facts: Bushman's Hat

  • Best Evidence:Grade C
  • Conditions Studied:1
  • Research Outcomes:8
  • Key Effect:Overweight
Outcomes by grade:
A0
B0
C1
D1
1 conditions · 8 outcomes

Detailed Outcomes

C
Bilirubin
Small Increase (potential liver harm)
1 study
small↑Worsens
D
Appetite
No effect
1 study
none
?
Weight
No significant effect
1 study
?
Body Fat
No significant effect
1 study
?
Blood Pressure
1 study
↑Worsens
?
Heart Rate
1 study
↑Worsens
?
Liver Enzymes
↑Worsens
?
Muscle Mass
1 study
↑Improves

Evidence by Condition

Best grade per condition (each condition may have multiple outcomes)

COverweight
2
↑BilirubinWorsensAppetiteWeight

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