According to HelpGuide, in order to lose weight you need to stick to a program and have patience. Burning more calories than you eat will help you to lose weight. Herbs have been known to stimulate metabolism and help remove excess water weight from the body. Please check with your doctor before taking herbs. The FDA has not proven herbs to be effective for health reasons.
Effects
Herbal remedies have many effects on the body. Ann Louise Gittleman writes in her book "The Fat Flush Cookbook" that the culinary herbs cinnamon, clove and bay leaves help to keep blood sugar levels stable while garlic and turmeric may help nourish the liver. Basil and oregano can help fight off germs and viruses. Herbs can also help reduce excess fluid from the system, stimulate metabolism and aid in digestion, all added benefits when wanting to lose weight.
Fennel
In their book "Herbs," Ivo Pauwels and Gerty Christoffels write that the herb fennel has been used throughout history to suppress the appetite. Fennel is native to the Mediterranean region and its history is full of myth and folklore; gladiators often used fennel as a stimulant for the body. Make a warm cup of fennel tea, up to three times daily, and add the herb to your salads or fish.
Parsley, Cilantro and Coriander
Gittleman writes in her book that the herbs parsley, cilantro and coriander can help remove excess fluid from the body, a condition known as bloating. These herbs can be frequently used in a low-fat diet. Fresh parsley also makes for an excellent tea especially if sweetened with honey. Cilantro is a healthy addition to soups and salads. Coriander can be added to chicken, eggs, beans and brown rice: all low-fat and healthy additions to a diet.
Supplements
In "The Healing Power of Vitamins, Minerals, and Herbs" by Reader's Digest, there are recommendations for losing weight with certain herbal supplements. 200 mg of chromium is suggested to be consumed twice a day with a full glass of water and a meal. This herb is said to help burn fat. Garcinia comboga, an herb from India which helps quell hunger, can be taken three times daily in 500 mg amounts. 300 mg of St. John's wort taken twice a day is also suggested.
Warning
It is vital to check with your health-care professional or expert in botanical medicine before taking herbs. Herbs may interact with certain medications and are not a substitute for losing weight. HelpGuide suggests making lifestyle changes, such as increasing physical activity and the way you eat. Take time to chew your meals and stick with nutritious foods that will give you energy, such as lean proteins, vegetables, fruits and whole grains.
References
- Help Guide: Healthy Weight Loss and Dieting
- "The Fat Flush Cookbook"; Ann Louise Gittleman; 2002
- "Herbs"; Ivo Pauwels and Gerty Christoffels; 2006
- "The Healing Power of Vitamins, Minerals, and Herbs; Reader's Digest; 1999
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