Caralluma adscendens var. fimbriata traditionally used by tribal and rural communities as a famine food and appetite suppressant. It has recently attracted scientific and commercial interest for its unique phytochemistry and a range of bioactivities anti-obesity, antioxidant and antidiabetic. This succulent cactus contains glycosides, tannins, flavonoids, phenols, hydrocarbons and saponins as major phytoconstituents and is reported for various biological activities such as rheumatism, diabetes, leprosy, antinociceptive, antipyretic, antihelmintic and antiobesity activities. This article aims to provide a comprehensive review on Caralluma adscendens var. fimbriata is particularly well suited to dryland and rainfed farming systems because of its succulent habit and low water demand. C. adscendens var. fimbriata is an edible, drought-resistant succulent primarily recognized as a traditional "famine food" and medicinal plant in the arid and semi-arid regions of India.