I don’t have to tell you that there isn’t such thing as a pill or remedy out there that will magically make the pounds melt away, but herbs can promote weight loss in a variety of ways. The action of certain herbs “trick” the brain into thinking the stomach is full, while others function thermogenically (speed up the body’s metabolism).
How Thermogenic Herbs Work
Thermogenic herbs (most classified as stimulants) contain substances, i.e. caffeine that speed up body functions like heart rate, digestion, and respiration. Their effects may get you up off the couch and keep you moving. Some thermogenic herbs like green tea, nettle, and dandelion are safe as, or safer, than prescription and over-the-counter weight loss drugs. Other herbs act as diuretics – to increase the urine flow to lose weight and weight returns quickly when the herb is halted. Even though some can be very beneficial, others can be potentially dangerous and even toxic.
Beware These Herbs
It should be noted that the FDA (Food and Drug Commission) has linked the following to cause serious side effects and even death, so avoid them.
• Herbal Laxatives – Usually sold as a diet tea, senna, rhubarb root, etc. These herbs can cause cramping and diarrhea, and if overused, could disturb your regular gut bacteria, leading to indigestion, constipation, and malabsorption.
• Ephedra – Also known as ma huang, in high doses can raise blood pressure, increase heart rate, and over-stimulate the central nervous system. The FDA reports more than 800 cases of side effects linked with the use of ephedra, including heart palpitations, seizures, stroke, chest pain, and heart attack. This herb has caused at least two deaths.
• Herbal fen-phen— – Ephedra is the main ingredient in the version of the dangerous diet drug known as fen-fen. Herbal fen-phen has not been shown to even work in clinical trials, but we know its misuse is associated with severe side effects, from heartbeat irregularities to stroke and death.
What is Safe?
• Cayenne – If you aren’t troubled by spicy food, try sprinkling a dash of cayenne on your food. It contains an ingredient called capsaicin that stimulates saliva, stimulates digestion and accelerates your metabolism at a safer level.
• Green Tea – It is a natural stimulant that behaves much like coffee but with the added benefit of vitamin C and flavonoids (compounds that are antioxidants). You can regulate the strength of the stimulant by steeping the tea quickly or for a long time. It can be purchased in a tea bag, or loose. It is available in capsules but is said to be better assimilated as a liquid.
• Seaweed – A good source of trace minerals such as chromium and iodine, seaweed is a natural thyroid stimulant. It is usually contained in kelp capsules or tablets.
Overall, herbal remedies should be viewed with the same precaution as taking any medications. Just because it is natural, does not mean there are no side effects. If you want to make herbs a part of your health regime, you should research and even consult a well-trained herbalist.