Herbs have been used for thousands of years to promote health.  There is now intense interest in the traditional uses of herbs by native populations such as those of the Amazon and the Australian Aborigines.  Yet, there remains concern regarding the safety and effectiveness of herbal supplements.  The regulation of all foods, supplements and medications by the governments of developed nations should be proof of their safety.

For healthy weight loss, there are a number of herbal slimming pills that work.  As always, you should purchase only good quality herbal supplements from reputable suppliers.

Hoodia gordonii is an appetite suppressant from a cactus-like plant found in southern Africa.  It has additional effects in boosting energy levels, especially if combined with Green Tea.

Green Tea itself is a great herbal weight loss supplement.  It increases the oxidation (burning) of fat and helps modulate the effects of Leptin on eating behaviours.  There is also some evidence that Green Tea can improve your blood glucose control.  When your blood glucose is too high, you release insulin from your pancreas.  While there is insulin circulating, your body will not release the signals for fat to be burnt for energy but will continue to use the glucose available in the blood stream.  So, maintaining healthy blood glucose levels will increase your ability to burn fat for energy.

Bitter Orange (Citrus aurantim) increases the rate at which fat is released from fat cells.  This herb also increases your metabolic rate.  The combination of these functions results in more fat being removed and burnt for energy – great weight loss is the result.

Coleus forskohlii has a very specific role.  If your thyroid is under active and if you have the necessary nutrients available then this herb will help you to release more thyroid hormone.  Thyroid hormone helps to increase your metabolic rate.  This increased activity requires more fat to be burnt for energy.  A warning, this is only for under active thyroid levels and does require a higher level of specific nutrients so please consult your health care practitioner first.

Cinnamon (Cinnamon cassia) and Bitter Melon (Momordica charantia) also have positive effects on your blood glucose control.  As described in the discussion of Green Tea, this effect can help result in fat loss by causing fat to be burnt for energy rather than glucose in the blood.

These herbs are slimming pills that work but only if they are used in conjunction with a healthy diet and exercise.  They increase your weight loss rate but if your weight loss rate is low because you do not eat well or exercise then you will not achieve the weight loss you desire.