The U.S. Food and Drug Administration does not strictly regulate the sale of herbal supplements or over-the-counter weight-loss products. For this reason, it is possible for supplement manufacturers to sell and distribute products of dubious safety and efficacy. While no herbal supplement can replace the role of a healthy diet and exercise, a few natural products may help to support weight loss. Consult your health care provider before using any herbal remedy to lose weight, particularly if you have a medical condition.
Conjugated Linoleic Acid
Most commonly marketed in the form of a softgel capsule, conjugated linoleic acid is a popular over-the-counter weight loss remedy. According to the Mayo Clinic, CLA appears to be effective in reducing fat and supporting muscle-building. Levels of CLA, which is found naturally in cheese and meat, may be unusually low in people pursuing low-fat diets for weight loss. Noting a lack of conclusive evidence to support its long-term use, Mayo Clinic regards CLA as "possibly safe" and associated with few known side effects.
Ephedra
The Chinese herb ephedra has been banned in the United States due to concerns regarding its safety. Ephedrine, the herb's active compound, is a potent central nervous system stimulant and may cause serious side effects including heart attack and stroke. Other sources of ephedrine, including country mallow, are equally dangerous. Mayo Clinic states that these herbs are capable of suppressing appetite and increasing the amount of calories burned. However, these herbs' risks do not outweigh their benefits.
Bitter Orange
The rind of the bitter orange plant contains synephrine, a stimulant compound that is nearly identical to ephedrine. Although bitter orange theoretically offers similar weight loss benefits to ephedra, there is insufficient evidence of its efficacy. Furthermore, it may cause ephedrine-like side effects and serious drug interactions. Do not use bitter orange except under the guidance of a physician.
Green Tea
Extracts of green tea leaf may help to support a healthy metabolism. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, green tea products can improve weight loss in people who are moderately overweight or obese. The UMMC attributes green tea's efficacy to compounds known as catechins. In addition to supporting a healthy weight, green tea may play a role in the prevention of liver disease, cancer, diabetes and heart disease. Green tea supplements are generally safe, and most of their side effects relate to their caffeine content.
Hoodia
The San bushmen of South Africa have chewed hoodia for centuries, using it as an appetite suppressant during times of famine or long travel. Scientists now attribute this effect to the compound P57, which may suppress hunger pangs and thirst. However, there is insufficient evidence of hoodia's safety and efficacy; use only under the advice of your physician. The overharvest of hoodia has now caused the species to become endangered; seek hoodia supplements from manufacturers that offer sustainable certification.
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