A well-balanced diet and exercise are simple strategies that can help you lose weight. However, Americans commonly turn to supplements, such as herbs, to aid in their weight loss efforts. Although taking herbs may seem like a natural, safe way to shed unwanted pounds, some weight loss herbs may have dangerous side effects. Check with your physician before taking any herb to facilitate weight loss.
Ephedra
Ephedra, known in China as ma huang, has been used by Chinese healers to treat colds, hay fever and asthma for more than 3,000 years, according to Michael Castleman, author of "The New Healing Herbs." Although marketing ephedra is illegal in the United States, some dieters also use this herb as a weight loss supplement. Ephedra stimulates your central nervous system and may increase your metabolism. However, ephedra may contribute to high blood pressure and breathing difficulties, particularly when taken with caffeine. It may also cause nausea, high blood glucose and insomnia. Talk to your doctor if you plan to use ephedra for weight loss.
Celery Seed
Ancient German herbalists used celery seed as a remedy for gout, a type of arthritis that affects the joints of your big toes. Ayurvedic healers in India recommended it as a diuretic, and as a remedy for cold and flu. The diuretic properties of celery seed help flush fluids from your body, which may facilitate rapid weight loss in the form of water weight. However, this weight typically returns quickly. Celery seed may contribute to dehydration, and may rob your body of potassium, a mineral necessary for muscle and heart function, according to Phyllis Balch, author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing." Consult your physician before attempting to lose weight using celery seed.
Uva Ursi
Ancient Chinese healers used uva ursi as a topical antiseptic to prevent the infection of wounds, and Roman physicians used it to treat kidney disease. Like celery seed, uva ursi has diuretic properties that can help you quickly shed water weight. However, in addition to causing dehydration and potassium loss, uva ursi may cause vomiting, convulsions and ringing in the ears, according to Castleman. Talk to your doctor if you plan to use uva ursi for weight loss.
Kola Nut
West African natives chewed kola nut as an energy stimulant, and Caribbean natives once believed that this herb offered aphrodisiac benefits, according to Castleman. This herb is commonly used in weight loss supplements; however, it may have dangerous effects. It contains chemical compounds that may be toxic to your liver and kidneys. Kola nut also contains stimulant chemicals similar to caffeine, which may produce irritability and insomnia. Contact your doctor before addressing excess weight with kola nut.
References
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, C.N.C.; 2010
- "The New Healing Herbs"; Michael Castleman; 2010
Member Comments