Herbal medicine is a big topic these days and so is weight loss. It’s only natural to ask, “Can herbs help with weight loss?” Some can, some can’t, and sometimes we still don’t know for sure. This article will discuss some common weight-loss-related herbs and the current research on them. But there are a lot out there.
When considering using herbs for weight loss, always do your research and always consult with your doctor first. Some herbs can interact with your prescriptions and even the safest herbs can be pedaled by untrustworthy sources. Your doctor can help to steer you in the right direction.
Ephedra
Ephedra –active ingredient, Ephedrine — comes from a shrub resembling a small evergreen tree that grows in parts of China, Mongolia, and the South Western United States. Where it may have been introduced by Asian immigrants. In Asia, the stems and leaves have been used to treat various illnesses for centuries. Though it has more recently been made into pills and incorporated into dietary supplements to aid in weight loss. AHoweverccording to The National Center for Complementary and Integrated Health.
The sale of Ephedra and its use in supplements was banned in the United States by the Food and Drug Administration in 2004. Because its use in dietary supplements led to intense gastrointestinal complications and heart problems. Despite a 2003 meta-analysis published by the American Medical Association which found that the herb does help with weight loss. Adverse effects were likely caused by companies blending the herb with caffeine. The ban on Ephedra was briefly lifted by a Federal Court Ruling in 2005. Though it was later reinstated in 2006. In 2015 Reuters published an article praising the ban linking it to steeply declining rates of supplement-related mortality.
Despite rumors that the FDA is planning to lift the ban in light of the recent “obesity epidemic” this writer has been unable to find any reliable source to support the rumor.
Keep your ear to the ground, however, as this plant does seem to be an effective weight loss supplement.
Green Tea Extract
More common than tea made from Ephedra is Green Tea. A common enough drink the world over, green tea extract is a common weight loss supplement. It helps lead to weight loss by increasing the body’s energy output.
Studies have long held that this herb and its extract can lead to weight loss. Though many studies, including at least one study by the American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases, have found that this extract can lead to liver complications and even liver failure.
While the supplement is legal for sale by the FDA and readily available, Consumer Reports has recommended that the ingredient be avoided due to its side effects. Including less severe side effects like dizziness, elevated blood pressure, heart rate, and ringing in the ears.
Taken responsibly and from a responsible supplier, this herbal supplement has promising weight loss effects. But talk to your doctor before taking it, especially if you have liver or heart problems.
Green Coffee Extract
Green Coffee Bean Extract has also been found to help with weight loss in a 2011 meta-analysis published in the journal Gastroenterology Research and Practice.
Where green tea extract leads to weight loss by changing the metabolism, green coffee extract leads to weight loss by changing how your body takes in glucose. Also, unlike green tea extract, green coffee extract has not been widely linked to health defects or negative side effects. Many green coffee extract suppliers have even been approved by the FDA.
You only need to talk to a doctor before taking this herbal supplement if you have diabetes or if you are sensitive to caffeine.
