Chinese Herbs for Weight Loss

Chinese Herbs for Weight Loss
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If you are looking for a way to lose weight without the use of prescription medication or costly exercise programs, there are many Chinese herbal supplements available on the market that can be a fitting option. Available in most local drug stores and supermarkets, these herbal supplements come in the form of pills, powders or liquid extracts. As with any new medication, be sure to speak to your doctor prior to taking any supplement.

Ginseng

Ginseng has long been prescribed for the promotion of weight loss and is an ingredient in many energy drinks and energy pills. According to the University of Michigan Health System, Asian ginseng can increase and stimulate metabolic rate, thus leading to burning of stored fat deposits. In addition, the University suggests that an increase in energy provided by ginseng will also temper the hunger mechanism, limiting your desire to overeat. Available in pill, powder, and liquid extract forms, ginseng has very few side effects and has been classified as a generally safe herbal supplement.

Lotus Seed

According to Shen-Nong.com, alternative medicine doctors and Chinese herbal specialists have long used lotus seed to promote weight loss through suppressing the appetite while increasing energy. Due to the herb's energy-promoting qualities, patients taking lotus seed are able to more efficiently burn calories and fat deposits as physical activity increases.

Hyacinth

According to Shen-Nong.com, ridding the body of excess water by taking hyacinth can also help you drop a few pounds. Typically used in soup or powder form, hyacinth allows the body to more efficiently absorb excess water in the intestines, thus eliminating weight associated with water retention.

References

Article reviewed by Holland Hammond Last updated on: May 13, 2010

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