Weight loss is a common goal among Americans -- more than 60 percent of adults in the United States are overweight, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Excess body weight contributes to health problems such as heart disease and diabetes. Although diet and exercise are the primary strategies for losing weight, certain herbs may help you shed extra pounds. Check with your physician before taking any herb to augment your weight loss efforts.
Psyllium
Psyllium is a type of soluble fiber derived from the Plantaginis ovatae herb, which is native to India. Although psyllium is best known for its laxative benefits, this herb may also aid in weight loss. It may help lower levels of glucose in your bloodstream, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Your body stores unused glucose as fat cells, which contribute to weight gain. Psyllium also absorbs liquids in your digestive system, causing it to expand. This may help you feel full between meals, which may reduce your temptation to consume fattening snacks. Talk to your doctor if you plan to take psyllium. In rare cases, it may cause an allergic reaction that may lead to breathing difficulties.
Ginger
Ginger is a culinary herb that is commonly used in Asian and Indian dishes. It adds a sweet, spicy flavor and pungent aroma to curries, stir-fry dishes and dals, or Indian lentil dishes. The chemical compounds in ginger root may also enhance your body's ability to metabolize fats from food sources, according to Phyllis Balch, author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing." This may help prevent your body from storing fats as excess weight. Contact your doctor before using ginger for weight loss -- it may occasionally cause heartburn.
Cayenne
Like ginger, cayenne is primarily known for its culinary uses. It adds heat and flavor to Caribbean sauces, Indian curries and Asian stir-fry dishes. Cayenne may also offer medicinal benefits. Capsaicin, the active chemical compound in cayenne, may help reduce hunger, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. It may also help your body burn fat more efficiently. Consult your physician if you plan to use cayenne as part of a weight loss regimen -- it may cause diarrhea and stomach pains.
Celery Seed
Celery seed was used by ancient Ayurvedic healers as a treatment for arthritis, gastrointestinal distress and flu, according to Michael Castleman, author of "The New Healing Herbs." German herbalists recommend celery seed as a remedy for gout, a painful type of arthritis that affects the joints of the big toes. Celery seed is also a diuretic, which may help reduce water weight. However, check with your doctor before taking celery seed for weight loss -- this herb may lead to dehydration.
References
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Obesity
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, C.N.C.; 2010
- "The New Healing Herbs"; Michael Castleman; 2010
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