Natural Appetite Suppressants And Energy Booster Herbs

Certain herbs may possess properties that can affect appetite and energy levels. Research is beginning to unfold on certain of these herbs, such as ephedra, ginseng and hoodia gordonii. A study on rats that was published in "Diabetes, Obesity and Metabolism" in 2001 supported the efficacy and safety of one undisclosed herbal formulation of a combination of Chinese herbs for suppressing appetite and overcoming obesity. Similar studies support the energy-boosting properties of some herbs. What's more, many herbal appetite suppressants are also energy boosters.

Herbs for Energy

In the book "Herbal: The Essential Guide to Herbs for Living" author Deni Bown lists under herbal stimulants: sarsaparilla, comfrey leaves, pau d'arco, Mexican tarragon, French marigold, feverfew and dandelion. Ginseng is one herb used in traditional Chinese herbal medicine that has undergone considerable study in the West, including one in 2009 published in the "American Journal of Chinese Medicine" that found it effective for increasing energy. However, while ginseng is marketed largely for its stimulating properties, it is more accurately described as an energy normalizer that can calm hyperactive energies as readily as boost low energy.

Herbs for Appetite

As a 2011 review of research on hoodia gordonii, points out, the evidence accumulated from numerous studies on its efficacy and safety have been inconclusive. Other herbs that may possess appetite suppressing properties, according to Joseph B. Marion's "Anti-Aging Manual" include buckthorn, chaparral, chrysanthemum, honeysuckle, guar gum, orange peel, peppermint, rosehips, stevia and uva ursi.

Herbs for Both

Ephedra, otherwise known as ma-huang, is one of the most commonly known and widely marketed herbs for boosting energy, but it is far from the only one. The herb guarana contains a stimulant much like caffeine and in Brazil is made into a drink resembling coffee. In addition to these properties, both ephedra and guarana are also marketed and used as appetite suppressants in weight loss products.

Precaution

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has not approved herbs for therapeutic uses such as these, nor does it regulate the sale of herbs and herbal products. Furthermore, the FDA has issued warnings on certain herbal products, and even banned some, such as ephedrine, made from ephedra, for having potentially harmful side effects. Therefore always consult with your doctor about any herbs you are considering taking before you start taking them.