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Limited evidenceWeight management

Caralluma Fimbriata

An Indian edible cactus traditionally used to blunt hunger during long journeys. Trials show a small effect on waist circumference but generally no significant weight loss.

Where to buy

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What the science says

  • Body weight Limited evidence

    A systematic review and meta-analysis of clinical trials found no statistically significant reduction in body weight or BMI with Caralluma fimbriata. This is the main claim shoppers buy it for, and it is not supported.

  • Waist circumference Limited evidence

    The same meta-analysis found a small significant reduction in waist circumference. An early randomized trial in Indian adults similarly found reduced waist circumference and some appetite suppression without weight change.

  • Appetite control Limited evidence

    A randomized controlled trial in overweight adults tested an orally dosed extract on appetite control and body composition, with modest and inconsistent results. Trials are small, short and use different extracts.

Dosage & safety

Studied doseTrials used 500–1,000 mg/day of standardised extract, usually split before meals, for 4–12 weeks.
SafetyGastrointestinal complaints (constipation, flatulence, stomach discomfort) and rash are the reported side effects. It has been used as food in India, but supplement extracts are more concentrated. Avoid in pregnancy and breastfeeding for lack of data; a case of hepatotoxicity has been reported with a Caralluma-containing product, so stop if jaundice or dark urine appears.

How to take it

TimingSplit into two doses taken about an hour before your main meals, as in the trials.
With food?Take it before eating rather than with food, since the claimed effect is on appetite.
Worth knowingStop immediately and see a doctor if you develop jaundice, dark urine or unexplained fatigue — a Caralluma-containing product has been linked to liver injury.

Frequently asked questions

Does caralluma fimbriata help you lose weight?

No, a meta-analysis found no statistically significant reduction in body weight or BMI with Caralluma fimbriata, which is the main reason people buy it. The evidence is limited, and Caralluma produced only a small reduction in waist circumference.

Does caralluma fimbriata suppress appetite?

Caralluma fimbriata trials show modest and inconsistent effects on appetite; they are small, short and use different extracts. The evidence for Caralluma as an appetite suppressant is limited.

How much caralluma fimbriata should I take?

Caralluma fimbriata trials used 500–1,000 mg/day of standardised extract, split into two doses about an hour before main meals, for 4–12 weeks.

Is caralluma fimbriata safe?

Caralluma fimbriata can cause constipation, flatulence, stomach discomfort and rash, and a Caralluma-containing product has been linked to liver injury. Stop Caralluma and see a doctor if you develop jaundice or dark urine, and avoid it in pregnancy.

Scientific references

Related in Weight management

Herbal medicines: what the evidence says (335)