Commercial diet supplements often contain herbs and other natural ingredients believed to aid in weight loss. Some of these ingredients are safe, but some have harmful side effects. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration provides a list of botanicals that are generally recognized as safe, or GRAS. To avoid dangerous ingredients, choose potential supplements from this list, and check with your health care provider before trying herbs or other natural supplements of any sort.
Cascara Sagrada
Cascara sagrada, meaning sacred bark, is a cleansing herb found in some weight loss products. The Mayo Clinic lists this herb as an oral laxative. Laxatives may cause temporary weight loss by increasing bowel movements. Cascara sagrada works by increasing fluid in the intestines and stimulating peristalsis. Please note however, that while natural laxatives may provide temporary weight loss, most agree that the best way to lose weight safely and permanently is by following a modified diet and regular exercise program. Consult your medical doctor before trying cascara sagrada for weight loss.
Cayenne
Cayenne pepper has been used as both food and medicine for thousands of years. It is considered a stimulant herb and is also sometimes found in weight loss supplements. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, some studies show that cayenne not only helps you lose weight by increasing body heat, but may also help you regulate blood sugar levels. It is normally applied topically to help ease sore muscles, but can be taken orally as well in capsule form. Talk to your health care practitioner regarding the proper use of cayenne pepper.
Cinnamon
Cinnamon is another popular ingredient in some weight loss products that is generally recognized as safe by the FDA. Like cayenne, it is warming to the body. In an article from Thyroid-Info.com, patient advocate Mary Shomon explains that cinnamon also helps the body regulate blood sugar levels, which helps combat insulin resistance and "may be a successful factor in helping you lose weight." More studies are needed, so consult your health care provider before using cinnamon as a weight loss aid.
Licorice
Licorice is a cooking spice with medicinal qualities. Herbalists use it primarily to treat ulcers and respiratory infections. However, some studies show that it may be an effective weight loss aid as well. The University of Maryland Medical Center cites several studies which showed licorice helps reduce body fat and body mass index. However, taking licorice long term can have adverse effects as it raises aldosterone levels, which can lead to headaches and high blood pressure. Do not take licorice if you already have high blood pressure, and talk to your doctor before using this herb as a weight loss aid.
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