Herbs are plants that can be used as food, medicine or both. Some herbs are used to facilitate digestion and aid in weight loss. Herbs and other natural therapies are meant to complement, and not replace, traditional health care. Always check with your medical doctor before using herbs for medicinal purposes.
Ginger
Ginger is a culinary spice that doubles as a digestive aid. It helps to stimulate digestion and has the added effect of relieving gas and bloating. It is used by herbalists to treat nausea, vomiting and other gastrointestinal problems. According to a study published in "Autonomic Neuroscience" in 2011, it may also be used as a weight loss aid. One variety of ginger, called grains of paradise, was able to reduce adipose tissue in laboratory rats. Although more studies are needed, researchers concluded ginger could be investigated as a possible weight loss aid. Talk to your health care provider before using ginger for health purposes.
Cayenne
Cayenne pepper is another culinary spice that doubles as an herbal remedy. It is well-known for its pain-relieving action, and is even used by herbalists to treat ulcers and other gastrointestinal problems. The University of Maryland Medical Center also notes that several studies have shown cayenne to be effective at increasing body heat, also known as thermogenesis, an important factor in weight loss. UMMC also points out that cayenne may help control blood sugar and should be investigated as a possible weight loss herb. Consult your doctor before using cayenne to treat ulcers or as a weight loss aid.
Green Tea
Green tea is the fresh, unfermented version of black tea. It is consumed regularly in China and throughout Asia. It is believed to strengthen the immune system. It is also used by herbalists to treat gas and bloating, as a natural diuretic and improve overall health. It is often promoted as a weight loss aid. One study published by the "Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry" in 2011 reported that a number of clinical trials showed that green tea also helps individuals lose weight. It may help control appetite and increase fat metabolism. Talk to your health care provider about using green tea as a weight loss aid.
Psyllium Seed
Psyllium is a high-fiber plant commonly used in fiber supplement drinks and is known to be beneficial for digestion and elimination. It provides bulk in the intestines and is used to treat occasional and chronic constipation. Because it helps to increase elimination of excess waste in the intestinal tract, it is sometimes recommended as a weight loss aid. The Clayton College of Natural Health herb guide warns that it should be taken with plenty of water to avoid gastrointestinal problems. Consult your medical doctor before trying psyllium seed or supplements containing psyllium.
References
- "Autonomic Neuroscience"; Extract of Grains of Paradise and Its Active Principle 6-Paradol Trigger Thermogenesis of Brown Adipose Tissue; M. Iwami, et al.; April 2011
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Cayenne
- "Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry"; Antiobesity Effects of Green Tea Catechins: A Mechanistic Review; T. Rains, et al.; January 2011
- Clayton College of Natural Health: Herb Reference Guide: P
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