Acacia rigidula is a plant commonly used in weight-loss supplements. In addition to purported weight-loss benefits, some natural doctors and herbalists claim that acacia rigidula has other health benefits that derive from the plant's flowers and seeds. Chemically, this plant contains several natural compounds including amphetamines. As with any health supplement, you should speak to a medical professional prior to taking any acacia rigidula supplement.
What Is Acacia Rigidula?
Acacia rigidula is a semi-evergreen tree also known as Catclaw, Chaparro Prieto and Blackbrush Acacia. The plant produces yellow flowers in the spring and grows in the limestone hills in southern and eastern Texas and several parts of central Mexico. Because the plant grows in dry regions, acacia rigidula does not require much water.
Weight Loss
The purported weight-loss benefits associated with this plant result from the natural chemical compounds found in acacia rigidula that stimulate several processes in your body. Specifically, the amines and alkaloids found in this plant work to stimulate your nervous system. While other sources of these same amines and alkaloids exist in nature, the chemical compounds found in acacia rigidula appear to go directly to your brain, increasing and speeding the overall effect these compounds have on your body. Clinical research, however, has not confirmed the medical benefits of this plant.
Reduced Appetite and Enhanced Energy, Mood
Manufacturers of acacia rigidula supplements claim that this plant aids in weight loss by reducing your appetite and concurrently increasing your body's metabolism. In other words, acacia rigidula can help you eat less while burning calories and fat faster. Additionally, the amines and alkaloids found in this plant can further support weight loss by increasing your overall energy level. Further, acacia rigidula can contribute to heightened moods, making you feel better emotionally. Improved moods may also support weight loss.
Negative Side Effects
No known side effects are associated with the use of acacia rigidula. However, that does not mean that all acacia rigidula supplements are safe. As a relatively popular weight-loss supplement, manufacturers commonly add additional ingredients to the supplements that contain acacia rigidula for the purpose of enhancing the weight-loss effects. These added ingredients sometimes include amphetamines that do not occur naturally. You should, therefore, consult a doctor prior to taking any acacia rigidula supplement.
References
- "Encyclopedia of Natural Medicine"; Michael Murray and Joseph Pizzorno; 1997
- "The Canadian Encyclopedia of Natural Medicine"; Sherry Torkos; 2008
- "Women's Encyclopedia of Natural Medicine: Alternative Therapies and Integrative Medicine for Total Health and Wellness"; Tori Hudson; 2007
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