We are independent & ad-supported. We may earn a commission for purchases made through our links.
Advertiser Disclosure
Our website is an independent, advertising-supported platform. We provide our content free of charge to our readers, and to keep it that way, we rely on revenue generated through advertisements and affiliate partnerships. This means that when you click on certain links on our site and make a purchase, we may earn a commission. Learn more.
How We Make Money
We sustain our operations through affiliate commissions and advertising. If you click on an affiliate link and make a purchase, we may receive a commission from the merchant at no additional cost to you. We also display advertisements on our website, which help generate revenue to support our work and keep our content free for readers. Our editorial team operates independently of our advertising and affiliate partnerships to ensure that our content remains unbiased and focused on providing you with the best information and recommendations based on thorough research and honest evaluations. To remain transparent, we’ve provided a list of our current affiliate partners here.
Health

Our Promise to you

Founded in 2002, our company has been a trusted resource for readers seeking informative and engaging content. Our dedication to quality remains unwavering—and will never change. We follow a strict editorial policy, ensuring that our content is authored by highly qualified professionals and edited by subject matter experts. This guarantees that everything we publish is objective, accurate, and trustworthy.

Over the years, we've refined our approach to cover a wide range of topics, providing readers with reliable and practical advice to enhance their knowledge and skills. That's why millions of readers turn to us each year. Join us in celebrating the joy of learning, guided by standards you can trust.

What are the Medical Uses of Caralluma Fimbriata?

By Deborah Walker
Updated: May 17, 2024
Views: 7,230
Share

Caralluma fimbriata is a succulent plant in the Apocynaceae, or cactus, family. It grows wild in India, Africa, Saudi Arabia, Afghanistan, southern Europe, and the Canary Islands. For hundreds of years, this species of cactus has been used as an appetite suppressant, stamina enhancer, food, and thirst quencher. Research studies have shown that Caralluma fimbriata may be an effective diet aid. Mild side effects may occur, but usually go away after several days.

This cactus species is also known as wild succulent cactus, ranshabar, shindala makadi, karallamu, and Caralluma cactus. From summer through fall, it produces unpleasantly-scented, star-shaped blooms in black, red, purple or yellow. Traditionally, tribes in India used Caralluma fimbriata when on an extended hunt. It is said that the plant quenched thirst, gave the hunters stamina, and kept them from becoming hungry. Today, the main use of this cactus is as an appetite suppressant and weight loss aid.

Researchers hypothesize that the chemical constituents of Caralluma fimbriata act on the hunger and appetite control center of the brain. The cactus may also block enzymes, which in turn block fat formation. The body is then forced to use stored fat as energy. One small, 60-day study showed that Caralluma fimbriata may decrease waist size, hunger, and the intake of fat and calories. Even so, there is no large-scale clinical research that clearly demonstrates this plant's effectiveness in lowering body mass index or weight.

This weight loss aid is available in capsule or pill form. Powdered Caralluma fimbriata may also available. The supplement may be purchased at health food stores and from online vendors. According to the dosage directions on the bottle of one brand of Caralluma fimbriata, one 500 mg capsule should be taken 30-45 minutes before eating, two or three times per day. The package insert recommends that users also follow a low-calorie weight loss plan. According to the manufacturer, pregnant or nursing women should avoid using these pills.

Many traditional Indian ayurvedic doctors say that they have seen few unpleasant side effects in the patients who use Caralluma fimbriata. Any side effects that do occur usually emerge during the first week and then disappear. Users may experience gastrointestinal issues, such as constipation, stomach pain, gas, or mild nausea.

There is not enough research to determine the safety of Caralluma when it is combined with other medications. Although thought to be safe, it is always better to err on the side of caution when supplementing. Anyone considering the use of this product may find it helpful to consult with a healthcare provider first.

Share
WiseGeek is dedicated to providing accurate and trustworthy information. We carefully select reputable sources and employ a rigorous fact-checking process to maintain the highest standards. To learn more about our commitment to accuracy, read our editorial process.

Editors' Picks

Discussion Comments
Share
https://www.wisegeek.net/what-are-the-medical-uses-of-caralluma-fimbriata.htm
Copy this link
WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.

WiseGeek, in your inbox

Our latest articles, guides, and more, delivered daily.