Herbs That Slow Down Metabolism

A variety of herbs work to decrease the metabolism of the human body. Too often, a decreased metabolism has a negative effect, resulting in an energy deficit and a host of other problems.

Significance

• A proper functioning metabolism is vital, because it allows the body to burn calories for energy and keeps all of the body's organs in working order.

Function

• The thyroid gland is responsible for producing hormones that regulate the body's metabolism. So, it's the thyroid that can be manipulated by herbs to either increase or decrease the metabolism.

Effects

• Some of the herbs that work on thyroid function to decrease metabolism are astragalus, ginger, lemon balm, ginseng, wheat grass and burdock. Vegetables that fall into the cruciferous group, such as cabbage, cauliflower and broccoli, can also decrease the metabolism.

Identification

• Some of the symptoms of decreased metabolism are feeling tired all of the time, being constipated and difficulty in keeping the body warm.

Warning

• Because metabolism affects all of the organs, you should consult your physician if you exhibit any of the symptoms of decreased metabolism.