Pharmaceutical Companies are trying to take over the Hoodia Market

Many Pharmaceutical companies are trying to capture the South African Hoodia Market. Hoodia was not that common in the past, but the Hoodia products got great popularity after the fact was exposed that the San Tribes of South Africa make use of the Hoodia plant in order to suppress their hunger during long hunting trips.

The Hoodia Gordonii plant is often mistaken as cactus because they look much like cactus. Among the many varieties of Hoodia, Hoodia Gordonii has gained great fame as an appetite suppressant. It became more popular when people realized that it actually works. Currently, there are a number of companies that promote Hoodia products. However, one of the pharmaceutical development companies is eager to sooner or later control the Hoodia market. Phytopharm, which is a British based company, has received the patent to produce and distribute the Hoodia products worldwide. They have joined hands with Unilever to introduce new Hoodia products.

Both the companies presently are in the third stage that calls for supply chain extension and clinical safety studies. This a great budding market as there are a number of obese people all over the world hoping to lose weight. Phytopharm and Unilever are setting their roots to monopolize the weight loss market in the coming future as they have a great weapon – Hoodia, in their clutches.

The question everywhere is when these companies would begin to produce the Hoodia products to be sold in the market. The San Tribes have been using Hoodia since ages and have had no side effects. Whether the San Tribe will profit or not, the Phytopharm and the Unilever will definitely earn billions.