Africa is home to a wide variety of plant species with medicinal value used in herbal remedies, both by the native population and inhabitants of the West. Some of these herbal remedies have been shown as helpful for weight loss efforts. A weight loss plan using African herbal remedies should be undertaken under the supervision of a licensed health care practitioner to avoid negative interactions with current treatments.
Irvingia Gabonensis
The seed of the irvingia gabonensis plant is a bulk-forming laxative plant which grows in Africa. Bulk-forming laxatives, like irvingia or flax seed, might aid weight loss by producing a more gradual absorption of dietary sugar, leading to the feeling of fullness for a longer period of time. In a double-blind test, this herb produced weight loss after two weeks and reduced waist and hip circumference. Irvingia has also been shown to lower bad cholesterol and fats in the blood, raise good HDL cholesterol and significantly reduce blood pressure. Herbs such as irvingia might interact with conventional drugs, so clear its use with your doctor before taking.
Yohimbe
Yohimbine is an African herbal remedy derived from the bark of the yohimbe tree. According to the University of Michigan, this substance stimulates the release of lipids from fat cells. A double-blind study cited by the university found that women taking yohimbine lost more weight than those on a a weight-loss diet without yohimbe after three weeks. Other studies demonstrated little effect, so more clinical work must be done to prove yohimbe's effectiveness as an herbal weight loss remedy. Yohimbe use should be discussed with a physician before commencement.
Hoodia
Hoodia gordonii is a plant, resembling a cactus, which grows in the southern part of Africa. Hoodia is the active ingredient in several diet pills available over the counter at health stores and pharmacies. Hoodia works by tricking your brain into believing it has enough glucose, and thus doesn't need more food. This greatly reduces the appetite, with little direct side effects. Tom Mangold of BBC News says that African bushmen have utilized this plant for thousands of years to withstand days of hunting without food or liquids. Hoodia may lower your blood glucose levels too much and cause dehydration if you do not drink enough water or take in sufficient nutrients. Talk to your doctor before using this herb for weight loss.
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