Obesity, defined according to a person's height and weight, has become a growing health concern in the United States during the 21st century. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, at least 25 percent of residents in the majority of states are considered obese. Prescription drugs and even surgeries have been promoted to treat this epidemic, and alternative remedies have been touted to enhance weight loss as well. As with any traditional remedy, natural medicines should be discussed with a health professional before being used to ensure safety.
Guarana
One popular plant remedy found in energy drinks and over-the-counter dietary supplements is guarana, a type of shrub common to areas of South America. Guarana leaves, seeds and fruit have been used in these native regions for centuries to suppress appetite and increase energy. Caffeine, found in guarana leaves at up to twice the amount as in coffee beans, is the primary cause of these effects. Although using moderate amounts of guarana for its caffeine benefits appears nontoxic, its side effects and dosing amounts are still unclear. Excessive caffeine from any source may seriously affect health, causing dehydration, insomnia and agitation.
Ephedra and Ephedrine
Ma-huang, a Chinese herbal medicine also known as ephedra, has a 5,000-year-old history of use in Asia to treat sinus and lung illnesses. During the 20th century, ephedra was added to popular energy products in the United States to increase alertness and burn fat for weight loss. However, after life-threatening heart and stroke side effects, all ephedra products were banned. In the 21st century, sales of psuedoephedrine, a derivative of ephedra found in over-the-counter cold and allergy medicines, have been restricted as well, because the drug can be chemically changed and sold illegally to obtain stimulant effects. Any use of ephedra-related medicines for weight loss or stimulant use are unsafe.
Evening Primrose Oil
Oil obtained from the evening primrose plant has been studied as a potentially safe natural medicine for numerous conditions, including eczema, but its effects on weight loss are still unclear, especially when used without exercise. Weight loss benefits from evening primrose oil are probably related to its fatty acid content, particularly omega-6 fatty acid. However, a study in the 2007 "International Journal of Obesity" identified essential fatty acids such as those found in fish oil supplements to have no definite connection to actual weight loss. Appropriate doses of essential fatty acids have not been determined for different diseases and should be discussed with a health professional before use.
Healthful Diet
The best medicine to curb obesity and encourage weight loss safely is a healthful diet. Any traditional or natural medicine with claims of rapid weight loss have health risks, including dehydration and heart changes. Dietitian-guided meal programs or consultations to include fiber and essential nutrients in meals is likely the safest method of weight loss for most people.
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