If you're trying to lose weight but diets are not working, you might try using natural herbs. Being overweight can increase your risk for chronic diseases, including diabetes, heart disorders and hypertension. Getting your appetite under control can be one step toward dropping those pounds and a maintaining a healthier lifestyle. Consult your health care provider before starting herbal treatment.
Herbal Actions
Herbal appetite suppressants work in different ways. Some herbs contain high levels of fiber, which helps you feel full and curbs your appetite. Other herbs contain plant chemicals that send messages of satiety to your brain, helping to curb your appetite. Check with a knowledgeable practitioner for advice about dosage and preparation of herbal appetite suppressants.
Fennel
Fennel, or Foeniculum vulgare, is an aromatic cooking and medicinal herb native to the Mediterranean. It has a long history of use treating menstrual disorders, digestive problems and upper respiratory infections. In their 2000 book, "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," Dr. James F. Balch and Phyllis A. Balch, CNC, recommend fennel for weight problems because it's a natural appetite suppressant. The seeds are rich in fiber and complex carbohydrates, which give you a sense of fullness. Fennel also contains chemicals, such as isopimpinellin, which have an inhibitory effect on appetite. Do not ingest fennel oil.
Garcinia
Garcinia, or Garcinia gambogia, is an evergreen tree native to Asia and Africa. Indian Ayurvedic practitioners use the fruit rind to treat edema, rheumatism and constipation. In their 2001 book, "Herbal Remedies," naturopathic doctors Asa Hershoff and Andrea Rotelli state that garcinia suppresses appetite and reduces your craving for carbohydrates. It contains hydroxycitric acid, or HCA, which stimulates your liver to increase the amount of sugar it releases into your blood. When your brain senses the increased sugar, it send out signals that suppress appetite. Garcinia may cause digestive upset.
Psyllium
Psyllium, or Plantago afra, is a European annual and traditional herbal remedy for constipation. The seeds and husks are rich in fiber, making psyllium a bulking agent and an effective appetite suppressant. In their 2000 book, "The Herbal Drugstore," Dr. Linda B. White and medicinal plant expert Steven Foster explain that psyllium is a dietary fiber that allows you to eat fewer calories and still feel full. Drink a lot of water with psyllium to avoid blockage. Psyllium may cause gas and bloating.
References
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, CNC, and James F. Balch, M.D.; 2000
- "Herbal Remedies"; Asa Hershoff, N.D., and Andrea Rotelli, N.D.; 2001
- "The Herbal Drugstore"; Linda B. White, M.D., Steven Foster; 2000
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