Many people prefer to lose weight the natural way. For some, this involves the use of certain herbs that encourage weight loss. Different herbs aid in weight loss in different ways. Some work on digestion, while others work to increase metabolism, and decreasing the appetite to accomplish losing weight. The types of herbs that boost metabolism, or thermo genesis, are quite popular. These herbs are considered to be stimulants and will speed up the metabolism, thus causing weight loss. The FDA is not quite as excited about these herbs though. They say that these should be avoided because of serious, and possibly fatal, side effects. Ephedra, or any products that contain Ephedra, has been known to cause cardiac side effects which can be very dangerous. Cascara sagrada or senna are known to be herbal laxatives, and should not be used. These have caused some serious intestinal issues.

There are, however, many herbs that not only aid in weight loss, but are considered to be safe for use. Cayenne contains capsaicin, which is a substance that stimulates digestion along with increasing fat burning and metabolism. Green tea has become very popular of late, and is used for many purposes. This herb can increase metabolism because of the caffeine and antioxidants it contains. Known as a natural thyroid stimulant, seaweed, or kelp, may also speed up metabolism. Nettle is another herb known for its ability to increase metabolism. Ginseng also does this, along with helping to increase energy. Of course, anyone who has health problems or conditions that could be made worse through the use of any of these herbs should not take them under any circumstances.

Hoodia gordonii, or just plain Hoodia, is an herb that has gained a lot of attention lately from people seeking an effective, but “painless” way to lose weight. This cactus like plant grows in the African desert areas, and is a very powerful appetite suppressant. It was used by the Kalahari San Bushmen for hundreds of years to keep from being hungry when they were on long hunting expeditions. By skinning it and eating the inside of the plant, they not only stayed less hungry, but healthier.

Brown University has performed studies on Hoodia with regards to how it works as a weight loss aid. There is evidence that this herb works by fooling the hunger mechanism in the brain into thinking the body is not hungry, or is full. While this is a promising discovery, there is almost no research with regard to the effectiveness of Hoodia when it comes to losing weight. There is also no substantial information as to how safe it is.

Hoodia should probably not be taken by people with diabetes since the herb makes the brain think that the body has high enough blood sugar levels. This could disrupt the function of normal processes that set off the internal alarm that the body’s blood sugar levels are getting dangerously low.

Another way to use herbs for weight loss is through fiber. By taking soluble fiber supplements, bulk is added to the body and gives it a feeling of fullness without adding any extra calories. Anyone who is taking these fiber supplements should also drink enough water. If enough water is not consumed, there are some rather unpleasant, as well as potentially dangerous, side effects that can occur. These would include such conditions as constipation, and other digestive problems. It should also be noted that taking these fiber supplements should only be done under the supervision of a health care professional. Soluble fiber can also be obtained through eating such foods as apples, beans, pears, and oatmeal.

As with any type of weight loss program, it is always best to consult with your doctor or other health care professional before starting. This is true even with natural things such as herbs. An important thing to remember with herbs is that there is no guarantee as to how they will react to different individuals. What works as an appetite suppressant to one person, may not have any affect whatsoever on another person. Be sure to investigate thoroughly any herb you are considering to aid your weight loss program. You want to be able to make an intelligent and informed decision before taking any of them.