Overview

Caralluma (Caralluma fimbriata) is an edible cactus that grows in India. It's used in preserves such as chutneys and also as medicine.

Caralluma contains antioxidants and chemicals that might reduce appetite.

People use caralluma for obesity, anxiety, an inherited disorder called Prader-Willi syndrome (PWS), and many other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support these uses.

Don't confuse caralluma with cereus, hoodia, or prickly pear cactus. These are not the same.

Uses & Effectiveness ?

Possibly Ineffective for

  • Obesity. Taking caralluma extract by mouth seems to improve weight loss in people with obesity.
There is interest in using caralluma for a number of other purposes, but there isn't enough reliable information to say whether it might be helpful.

Side Effects

When taken by mouth: Caralluma is commonly consumed in food. Caralluma extract is possibly safe when used in doses no greater than 1000 mg daily for up to 12 weeks. It's usually well-tolerated. Side effects might include constipation and gas.

Special Precautions and Warnings

When taken by mouth: Caralluma is commonly consumed in food. Caralluma extract is possibly safe when used in doses no greater than 1000 mg daily for up to 12 weeks. It's usually well-tolerated. Side effects might include constipation and gas.

Pregnancy and breast-feeding: There isn't enough reliable information to know if caralluma is safe to use when pregnant or breast-feeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid use.

Interactions ?

We currently have no information for CARALLUMA overview.

Dosing

Caralluma extract has most often been used by adults in doses of 500 mg by mouth twice daily for up to 12 weeks. Speak with a healthcare provider to find out what dose might be best for a specific condition.

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CONDITIONS OF USE AND IMPORTANT INFORMATION: This information is meant to supplement, not replace advice from your doctor or healthcare provider and is not meant to cover all possible uses, precautions, interactions or adverse effects. This information may not fit your specific health circumstances. Never delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice from your doctor or other qualified health care provider because of something you have read on WebMD. You should always speak with your doctor or health care professional before you start, stop, or change any prescribed part of your health care plan or treatment and to determine what course of therapy is right for you.

This copyrighted material is provided by Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database Consumer Version. Information from this source is evidence-based and objective, and without commercial influence. For professional medical information on natural medicines, see Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database Professional Version.
© Therapeutic Research Faculty 2020.