The Use Of Medicinal Herbs And Herbal Supplements For Weight Loss

Overweight is a growing problem throughout the industrialized world. Although there are still countries with populations that are severely malnourished and malnutrition, most developed countries to address the opposite problem. There are over one billion overweight adults worldwide. Obesity rates around the world are reaching epidemic levels. Being overweight or obese can lead to many chronic diseases like type 2 diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular disease, stroke, and even some forms of cancer. With these bleak statistics it is no wonder that people around the world are seeking help with weight loss and weight control. The important point to remember is that there is no product, pharmaceutical or otherwise, that will make you melt fat from the body without any effort by the person using it. Exercise and sensible diet is the best course of action for the long term, permanent weight loss period. The use of herbal products can help boost metabolism and weight relief efforts, without loss of many of the harmful side effects of drug treatments or surgery. Increasing metabolism, converting fat into energy, and increase overall energy expenditure is the mechanism used by plants to aid in the promotion and thermogenic weight loss. Cayenne is a hot pepper with capsaicin, which stimulates the body's digestive process and increases the metabolic rate. It raises the temperature inside the body and helps to improve circulation as well. Citrus aurantium is another plant that may improve thermogenesis (the conversion of fat into energy.) Kola nut may also help mobilize fats for energy and also acts as a stimulant. Cardamom is another thermogenic herb that may also help digestion. Ginseng has been touted for its stimulating effects and this can lead to increased metabolic rate. Green tea is another supplement that falls into this category. Serves as a stimulant, increasing metabolic rate and total energy expenditure. The caffeine in green tea acts as a stimulant, but the supporting minerals help to counter some of the negative effects of caffeine. And finally, kelp, or seaweed, helps regulate thyroid function, which increases metabolism. Appetite control is another important area of weight loss. "Hoodia", Hoodia Gordonii is an herb that has been used by African Bushmen for hundreds of years. It is gaining popularity worldwide as science comes to Bush and medicine. It acts as an appetite suppressant by acting on brain centers that control hunger. Nettles also work to eliminate hunger by feeding the cells at a deeper level and reducing anxiety. Garcinia cambogia contains hydroxycitrate that not only reduces hunger but has thermogenic effect, too. Flax seed also serves to reduce appetite that speak to consumers and essential fats found in oils have many beneficial properties. Fiber supplements are also useful for appetite control, since they add bulk to foods. Blood sugar control is another important area in weight loss. Cinnamon is an important adjunct in controlling blood glucose. Gymnema sylvestre also supports the body by controlling blood sugar, which helps reduce cravings for sugar and reduces insulin insensitivity. The above supplements are generally safe in reasonable doses. Supplements to be avoided include ephedra (and supplements containing ephedra), diuretics and herbal laxatives. These herbal treatments are dangerous and the side effects include dehydration, malnutrition, dangerous arrhythmias and even death. It is important to start with one or two herbs and assess their effectiveness before adding others. This also helps determine the culprit of any side effects. When using an herbal supplement for weight loss is best to consult your doctor before you start.