Herbs to Lose Weight Fast

Although the most effective weight loss regimen requires lifestyle changes, including more physical exercise and a healthy diet, you can supplement this process with herbs conducive to losing weight fast. Excess weight is not only detrimental to your psychological health, but it is also instrumental in several health conditions such as obesity, diabetes and heart disease. Nonetheless, you should always consult your physician prior to beginning an herbal regimen.

Green Tea

The polyphenols in green tea are responsible for speeding up your metabolic rate, leading to quick weight loss, according to William Muirhead in the book "Green Tea -- Its Hidden Benefits." Green tea is also rich in antioxidants, which help to lower bad cholesterol levels while raising good cholesterol levels, and also contribute to its ability to enhance metabolism. Muirhead says that regularly drinking green tea can increase weight loss by up to 21 percent. Due to its caffeine content, the tea acts as a natural appetite suppressant that staves off hunger.

Citrus Aurantium

Citrus aurantium has several useful compounds conducive to quick weight loss, including the alkaloids octopamine, tyramine, hordenine and methyl tyramine, which boost the breakdown of fat in the body. Citrus aurantium is often used as a replacement for the controversial herb ephedra, but without the side effects of high blood pressure and other cardiovascular complications. Mauro Di Pasquale recommends in his book "Amino Acids and Proteins for the Athlete" to combine this herb with green tea or coffee as an appetite suppressant. Regularly taking this herb in conjunction with increased physical activity will also help to increase your resting metabolic rate, the author claims.

Psyllium

Psyllium comes from the small seeds of the Plantago plant and acts as a natural laxative, according to the book "The Healing Power of Vitamins, Minerals and Herbs." It works by forming a gel-like mass that absorbs excess water from the intestines to create a softer, more easily passing stool. The most common cause of weight gain is improper digestion. Regularly supplementing your diet with psyllium, for example, can help encourage regular bowel movements for faster weight loss. The authors suggest taking 1 to 3 tbsp. of psyllium two to three times a day.