Caralluma fimbriata is an edible succulent plant, often recognized for its cactus-like appearance. Native to arid regions of India, Africa, and the Middle East, it has a long history of traditional use as a “famine food” to suppress appetite. Today, it is primarily explored for its potential role in appetite and weight management.
What is Caralluma Fimbriata?
Caralluma fimbriata is a succulent herb, growing up to 30 centimeters tall. It has four-sided, fleshy green stems that taper towards the tips. While it produces tiny leaves on young shoots, these quickly drop off, leaving a spiky projection. Its flowers are small, about 2 cm in diameter, and can be purple or yellow with frilly, hairy margins.
This plant is widespread in dry regions of India, Sri Lanka, Burma, Africa, the Middle East, and Southern Europe. Historically, tribal communities in India used it as a “famine food” to suppress hunger and thirst during long hunts or times of scarcity. It was consumed raw, cooked as a vegetable, or preserved.
Caralluma Fimbriata for Appetite and Weight Management
Modern interest in Caralluma fimbriata stems from its potential as an appetite suppressant and aid in weight management. The plant contains phytochemicals, notably pregnane glycosides, believed to influence appetite regulation. These compounds are thought to interact with the hypothalamus, the part of the brain controlling hunger and satiety signals.
The proposed mechanism involves pregnane glycosides signaling fullness to the brain, potentially by increasing ATP release in the hypothalamus. This may reduce ghrelin, a hunger-promoting hormone, and inhibit neuropeptide Y (NPY), also associated with increased appetite. Some theories suggest Caralluma fimbriata may also interfere with fat and sugar absorption by blocking enzymes, encouraging the body to burn stored fat. This dual action on appetite and fat metabolism forms the basis for its perceived weight control benefits.
Research and Effectiveness
Scientific research on Caralluma fimbriata’s effectiveness in weight loss and appetite suppression has yielded mixed results. Some studies indicate potential benefits, such as reduced appetite and waist circumference. For example, a 2021 review noted that Caralluma fimbriata extract might reduce waist circumference, but it did not significantly affect overall body weight or Body Mass Index (BMI). Another study involving overweight adults showed that those taking Caralluma fimbriata extract experienced reduced calorie intake and waist circumference, and did not gain weight, unlike a placebo group.
Conversely, other research has shown little to no significant effect on overall weight loss or appetite modification beyond a placebo. A randomized, placebo-controlled trial found that a commercially available extract did not produce statistically significant reductions in weight, BMI, or waist circumference in overweight and obese individuals over 12 weeks. These inconsistent findings highlight the need for more rigorous, large-scale, and long-term human studies to conclusively determine its efficacy and establish definitive guidelines for its use.
Safe Use and Considerations
Caralluma fimbriata is considered safe for short-term consumption at recommended dosages. In the United States, it is commonly taken as an extract, with dosages ranging from 500 mg to 1000 mg per day, often split into two doses with meals. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) added it to the GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) list of food ingredients in 2014.
Despite its safety, some individuals may experience mild, transient side effects. These can include gastrointestinal discomfort such as constipation, gas, diarrhea, nausea, and upset stomach. Skin rashes have also been reported. The long-term effects of Caralluma fimbriata supplementation are largely unknown, and prolonged use beyond 60 days is not recommended. Pregnant or breastfeeding individuals, those with pre-existing medical conditions, or those taking other medications should consult a healthcare professional before use due to potential interactions, especially with diabetes medications.