The Skinny on Weight Loss Herbs!

American's are fat and it's too late to play the blame game, everyone is choosing to jump on the health train to get back into shape using herbal weight loss alternatives along the way. One of the most common road blocks that most people run into is what herbs are right for weight loss and finding the facts may be a little confusing for someone that doesn't know where to begin.

Here are some answers!

Dandelion isn't just something that grows in the yard anymore because people are using dandelion for a whole bunch of things … including weight loss. Dandelion may be listed on a bottle disguised as "Taraxacum officianale" but in short, its still dandelion.

Dandelion

A wonder herb that replaces minerals, takes away bad cholesterol and fatty acids before they make their way into fat cells through the bloodstream; it enhances our body's metabolism and is also a mild laxative. While dandelion is considered one of the more safer diuretics … it's still a diuretic and any long term use of a diuretic can produce a few less than perfect results. Prolonged use of dandelion can cause electrolyte imbalance.

Garcinia cambogia

Another wonder herb it seems is Garcinia cambogia or the more scientific identity, "Malabar tamarind". The good news about Garcinia cambogia is that no ill effects have been reported from the use of this herb. Garcinia cambogia is a metabolic stimulant that can help a body with a slow metabolic action increase potential, jumpstarting the body. It's also an appetite suppressant that aids in decreasing those urges or cravings for particular foods and it also helps out the digestive tract … everyone can appreciate that!

Licorice root

Licorice root or Glycyrrhiza glabra should not be used on a regular long-term basis. Many people choose to use this powerful little herb in the beginning because it satisfies most cravings for sweets but there is some damage that can be done. Using licorice root while taking heart medications could actually result in a heart attack or the least … an irregular heart beat. It can also cause potassium depletion, muscle pain, a feeling of weakness and even paralysis.

St. John's wort

It's a fact; some people have packed on the pounds because stress equals food! Overeating due to emotional stimulants can be controlled with St. John's wort. It's no secret that most people take this herbal alternative because it's known to improve mood and help with depression … including dieting depression. It increases serotonin levels in the brain, suppresses the appetite or increasing appetite in some, while treating the triggers that set off the 'overeat mode' in our body, what a great help!

There are some cautions though. Don't take St. John's wort with over the counter medications that contain MAO inhibitors, foods that have amino acid tyramine like red wine, aged cheese or yeast and it's best to take it with a meal to avoid an upset stomach.

There are many more, of course with benefits and cautions to watch out for. While many people remember the deaths associated with the herb Ephedra, it's still being used only in smaller doses. Ephedra is a natural amphetamine and should be taken in small doses, never exceeding the recommended dosage.

Another one that has become popular is Senna or also referred to as Cassia senna but the problem with Senna is that it's possible for a person to become addicted to Senna and it's famous for producing cramps. Most have found Senna to be effective taken with digestive aiding herbs like Chamomile or Ginger.

While there may not be any shortcuts to losing those extra pounds or maintaining weight loss, herbs are helpful. Getting the important information is vital, learning it, putting it to work and noting the results … are priceless!