Herbs that could help with weight loss can be classified as:
- Stimulants: encourage the body to burn more calories.
- Diuretics: cause the body to excrete water through excess urine.
- Cathartics: cause evacuation of the bowels, reduce calorie consumption by impeding full digestion.
- Appetite suppressants: reduce hunger by expanding in the stomach, altering mood, or satisfying taste.
However before you head out into the garden and start eating like a bunny, take note that herbs like drugs can have side effects and should not be used without knowledge and moderation. For many of us the best way to benefit from medicinal herbs is through a registered herbal supplement that contains balanced amounts from trusted sources.
However there are some herbs and spices that can safely be used in cooking which have a gentle and beneficial effect.
Cayenne
Improves circulation and digestion. Has thermogenic effects. In one study it was shown that cayenne increased core body temperature, which in turn increased the metabolism and caused the participants to lose more weight then the group not taking cayenne. So if you’re feeling brave add a bit of spice to dips, chicken dishes and sauces with a pinch or two of this firey spice.
Cinnamon
Creates a thermogenic burn. It reduces cholesterol levels – in particular, lowering bad cholesterol while leaving good cholesterol the same. It is cinnamon’s effect on blood sugar that makes it a potential help in the war against obesity, insulin resistance, sometimes known as "prediabetes," and the "Metabolic Syndrome." Cinnamon can be used in its powdered or stick form, adding it to smoothies, baked goods and in many North African meat dishes.
Fennel
A diuretic that reduces hunger and improves energy. Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare) seed and nettle (Urtica dioica) leaves make a useful tea for weight loss. Do not exceed the recommended dose. Fennel also makes a wonderful combination with fish.
Prepare fennel seed tea: 1 tsp fennel seeds in 3 cups boiling water and simmer for 5 minutes. Remove from heat add some nettle leaves, keep the container covered, and allow to stand for 15 minutes, then strain. 1 cup 3 or 4 times per day, cool or heated.
Flax Seed
A bulk laxative that helps curb hunger. Loaded with vitamins and phytonutrients, it is an excellent source of protein and fiber. Flaxseed is nature's gift to health! Besides stabilizing the body sugar levels, flax expands five times in bulk when ingested. Ground or Soaked Flax taken half an hour before meals will help you eat less, so you will lose weight while simultaneously strengthening your immune system.
Flax seeds (preferably ground) can also be used in smoothies, baked goods, granolas and mueslis.
Parsley
A diuretic and nutritional aid. Juicing recipes with carrot and parsley juice help curb the appetite & reduce hunger cravings, can also help maintain proper blood sugar levels, reducing the blood sugar swing that you can experience when on a weight loss program It is one of the highest sources of life-giving chlorophyll which acts like iron to oxidize the blood. Look for healthy, dark green leaves and use them in salads, sauces and juices.
Phyllium
Helps to curb hunger and allows the elimination of wastes from the body. Herbalists say that the weight-loss effect of plantain and psyllium is related to the spongy fiber (mucilage) in the seeds and to specific chemicals (polyphenols) in the leaves.
A teaspoonful of psyllium mixed well with a glass of juice or water taken it before each meal can be beneficial.