
Apocynaceae FAMILY
Hoodia alstonii
Hoodia alstonii
Edibility
2/5
Medicinal
2/5
Safety & Hazards
None known
Botanical Description
Hoodia alstonii is a succulent, cactus-like shrub that can grow up to 1 metre tall. The plant is harvested from the wild for local use as a food and means of staving off hunger. Many species in this genus have potential for use in helping overweight people reduce their weight, acting by reducing the sensation of hunger.
Habitat & Origin
Origintropical
Native RangeSouthern Africa - Namibia, S. Africa.
HabitatUsually found on rocky outcrops, often in very inhospitable desert areas.