Maintaining a consistent, healthy weight is a challenge for many people. Although taking part in regular exercise and eating a healthy, balanced diet is the most effective way of losing excess pounds or maintaining your current weight, some herbs may also help to prevent weight gain and may even boost weight loss. However, relying on herbs alone may not produce the results you require. In addition, herbal supplements may cause side effects or interfere with the action of other medicines you are taking, so get medical clearance before using them.
Examples
The University of Maryland Medical Center website lists several herbs that may aid weight control and help you lose excess pounds, including cayenne and guggul. Cayenne, also known as capsaicin, is found in chili peppers and may help to suppress hunger and burn body fat. Guggul, also known as Commiphora mukul, comes from the resin of a plant commonly used in Ayurvedic medicine and is used as an herbal remedy for a variety of ailments, including acne, high cholesterol and arthritis. UMMC notes that guggul may also aid weight loss and is sometimes used as an obesity treatment.
Administration
Guggul and cayenne may be taken in capsule or tablet form, although they are also available as powders. UMMC suggests taking 6 g to 10 g with your meals to help burn body fat. Alternatively, you may prefer to take an amount of guggul equivalent to 25 mg of guggulsterone, guggul's active ingredient, three times daily. Confirm with your pharmacist that these dosages are suitable for you.
Side Effects
The website RxList notes that short-term cayenne use is likely safe for most adults, although side effects may include stomach upset, flushing, and a runny nose. Taking large doses and using cayenne for long periods may cause liver or kidney damage, RxList warns. Guggul may cause a headache, nausea and loose stools, according to the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center. Guggul may also cause a hypersensitivity rash in some people.
Contraindications
Don't use either of these herbs if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Avoid cayenne if you are allergic to pepper or if you are due to undergo surgery -- it may increase the risk of bleeding. Cayenne should not be used alongside a number of other drugs, including anti-hypertensive drugs and anticoagulants. Guggul may stimulate the thyroid gland, so don't use it if you have hyperthyroidism or alongside thyroid medicines.
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