Certain herbs contain powerful agents that can contribute to weight loss. Medical literature offers many examples of the efficacy of using herbs to lose weight, although side effects may occur in some individuals. Check the reputation of any source for your herbs, because the quality and potency can vary between manufacturers. Herbal weight loss plans should only be conducted under the guidance of a licensed health care practitioner.
Hoodia Gordonii
Hoodia gordonii is a cactus-like plant that grows in Africa. It has gained attention in recent years as a weight loss agent and has been included in several diet pills. Hoodia contains chemicals that may fool your brain into believing that the body is full. That can reduce your appetite with few side effects. As Tom Mangold of BBC News reports, for millennia native bushmen have used this herb to endure extended periods of time without food or water while on long hunting trips. Using hoodia may lower blood glucose levels and cause dehydration if you do not eat or drink enough, so use it under medical supervision.
Licorice
Licorice comes from the Glycyrrhiza glabra plant. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, this popular flavoring agent and sugar substitute has been shown to reduce body fat and promote weight loss. Licorice is usually taken in tea or in an extract form. A topical preparation of one of licorice's components was shown to reduce thigh thickness in some subjects, but more studies are required to determine if licorice really reduces fat. Other medical applications of licorice include lowering LDL cholesterol levels and treating respiratory problems. Licorice may, however, produce headaches, increase blood pressure and contribute to heart problems in some cases. Please talk to your doctor before using licorice in a weight loss regimen.
Glucomannan
Glucomannan is derived from the amorphophallus konjac plant. The tubers of this plant are used to produce konjac flour, which is popular in Japanese cuisine. According to the NYU Longone Medical Center, some studies have shown that people who took glucomannan experienced significant weight loss compared with control groups. That may be due to the increased feeling of fullness that ingesting this herbal product produces. Glucomannan swells up to 17 times it original volume when placed in water. Other benefits of glucomannan include lowering cholesterol and blood pressure, and improving blood glucose levels in diabetics. Side effects may include excess gas or diarrhea and possible obstruction of the esophagus. Before attempting to lose weight with glucomannan, seek the advice of a doctor to ensure its safety for you.
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