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Herbal Diet Supplements

If you are not losing weight by eating and exercising properly, then you can use herbal diet supplements to help you achieve your weight loss goals. Licorice root, psyllium, kelp and dandelion are generally safe if you use them as directed. However, before you take any herbal diet supplement, you should consult with your doctor to ensure that the herbs won't adversely react with any medications you are taking.

  1. Licorice Root

    • Licorice root supports your adrenal glands by leveling out your blood sugar, which in turn makes you crave sweets less and less. However, if you have high blood pressure, do not take licorice root. Do not take licorice root for more than five days at a time, even if you do not have high blood pressure, because it may elevate your blood pressure.

      Purchase licorice root tea or tincture from a reputable health food store or online herbal retailer. Drink 1 cup of licorice tea daily or 1/4- to 1/2-tsp. three times per day for five days, then wait a month and repeat for five days. Continue to use licorice root for weight loss five days out of every month.

    Psyllium

    • Psyllium, the seed of the Indian plantain, contains a spongy fiber called mucilage that swells when it comes in contact with water, making you feel more full when you eat less. Buy psyllium at many herbal websites, health food stores and large grocery stores.

      Take 1/2-tsp. in 8 oz. of water approximately 30 minutes before every meal. Once you get used to taking the herb, increase your intake to 1 tsp. in 8 oz. of water. Drink at least 8 glasses of water a day when you are taking psyllium to avoid constipation.

    Kelp

    • Kelp, a kind of seaweed rich in iodine and antioxidants, is believed to be a thyroid supporter that can help obese people shed weight. Although most people can safely ingest kelp, seek professional medical advice before taking kelp if you have high blood pressure, heart problems or a thyroid disorder.

      Kelp comes in many different supplement forms and the standard dosage ranges from 300 to 1,500 mg daily.

    Dandelion

    • Dandelion, a member of the sunflower family, is believed to stimulate digestion, boost metabolism, offset sweets cravings and flush out kidneys. Buy fresh dandelion from many large health food stores and eat it in salads. Boil 2 to 3 tsp. of dandelion root in 1 cup of water for 10 to 15 minutes. Allow to cool slightly before drinking. Drink three cups per day.

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