Top 10 slimming plants and herbs

Guarana

Originating from South America, guarana is the darling of the medicinal plant world when it comes to slimming - and with good reason! Guarana is a recognised aid to slimming (its efficacy in weight loss) having been demonstrated in several studies) because of its high caffeine content (with up to 4.5% caffeine compared with a maximum 2% in coffee beans) which activates metabolism, and thus fat-burning. Take care though, not to overdo it.

Yerba mate

This caffeine-containing stimulant comes from Latin America where it is widely drunk as a tea, primarily for its energising effects. Yerba mate provides excellent support as part of a weight-loss regime because of its glycogenolytic and lipolytic properties which break down glycogen and lipids respectively.

Meadowsweet

Native to European grasslands, this small flower has long been used as a medicinal plant, but it is also extremely beneficial as part of a slimming regime. With draining and purifying effects, it helps eliminate toxins and remove cellulite and stubborn fat in tissues.

Konjac

This is the king of the appetite-suppressants! Extracted from the root of Amorphophallus konjac, a plant grown and consumed in Asia for centuries, konjac comes as a powder (amongst others) which can absorb up to 100 times its own volume in water. Just 1g, preferably taken 30 minutes before a meal, is sufficient to confer the benefits of its amazing appetite-suppressant effect.

Green tea

Green tea contains theine, which like caffeine, is an active substance known to promote lipolysis – otherwise known as fat-burning. Green tea also contains polyphenols (particularly catechin) which limits fat absorption.

Agar agar

Though not a plant in the usual sense of the word (it is extracted from algae), agar agar is nevertheless a real help to those who want to stay in shape, primarily because of its high content in soluble fibre which both expands in the stomach, promoting a feeling of satiety, and ‘catches’ fat and sugar.

Ash

This powerful draining plant is second to none when it comes to stimulating kidney function. It therefore supports weight loss by combatting water retention and promoting digestive function.

Hawthorn

Though it has a long history of phytotherapeutic use for cardiac problems, hawthorn is less well-known as a ‘slimming’ plant. But its leaves are able to activate the breakdown of lipids and thus help reduce fat storage.

Burdock

While this small, purple-flowered hedgerow plant is known for its role in treating problem skin, the plant’s root has additional benefits. Along with purifying and draining properties, it can also help control blood sugar levels.

Dandelion

Dandelion is an excellent diuretic, perfect for those who have a tendency towards water retention and bloating. It is a good detoxifier too, improving the elimination of waste products, and is also known to aid digestion. A real bonus in helping to achieve a flat stomach.