http://www.care2.com/greenliving/managing-weight-with-herbs.html
Managing Weight With Herbs
Adapted from Adaptogens: Herbs for Strength, Stamina, and Stress Relief, by David Winston and Steven Maimes (Healing Arts Press, 2007).
An “adaptogen” is a relatively new way of describing herbal remedies commonly found in traditional medicine. A very exciting and intriguing use of adaptogens is for all things weight-related. The information below will help you select the right herbs to help with weight management, regulation of blood sugar and metabolism, improved digestion and increased energy.
A long-term increase of cortisol encourages the metabolic system to produce fat, especially increased abdominal fat. Belly fat is particularly unhealthy because it is pro-inflammatory and associated with metabolic syndrome, hypertension, heart disease and diabetes. Belly fat also can stimulate the progression of atherosclerosis, as well as the growth of tumors and fibroid tissue, all great reasons to pursue weight management.
Adaptogens support weight management by regulating blood sugar insulin metabolism and cortisol levels; enhancing digestion and improving the digestive fire; and regulating body metabolism. By increasing adaptive energy and creating a balanced endocrine system, weight management becomes more controllable.
The following adaptogens support weight management:
American ginseng
Amla
Asian ginseng
Cordyceps
Dang shen
Eleuthero
Guduchi
He shou wu
Holy basil
Licorice
Reishi
Rhaponticum
Rhodiola
Shilajit
The following adaptogens help to increase energy and can enhance digestion:
American ginseng
Ashwagandha
Asian ginseng
Cordyceps
Dang shen
Eleuthero
Holy basil
Jiaogulan
Rhaponticum
Rhodiola
Schisandra
Shatavari
Adaptogens that support normalization of blood sugar, increase energy and aid digestion also support weight management. Eleuthero has the ability to shift the body’s metabolism to a greater use of fat for energy. This shift is reported to delay lactic acid buildup associated with muscle fatigue.
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12 comments
add your comment »Thanks for the great article.
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Great but where would you find all these?
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Set Realistic Weight Loss Goals. To avoid the frustration of failing, don’t overstress yourself with unrealistic weight loss goals. You gained weight slowly over time and it will take some time to gradually lose that weight. Slow, but sure is the best approach.
tea bags
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sounds worth a try
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This info is a good start in helping to empower people in their own health. A wonderful option is in finding a Naturopathic Doctor (N.D.) - primary care medically trained doctors who receive extensive training in medicinal herbs.
Herbs can be helpful in pursuing health, but they are best used in consultation first with an individual who has extensive knowledge to pass on to society - and help to empower each of us to use not only herbs - but also diet, exercise, mental, spiritual, social aspects of healing.
If you are wondering what a Naturopathic doctor is, there are presently under 5000 licensed ND's in the US - you can find one at the American Association of Naturopathic Doctor's site :
www.naturopathic.org
If you are curious about Naturopathic docs - feel free to email me - I am a first year medical student at National College of Naturopathic Medicine in Portland, OR.
I'm happy to talk! :)
to your health and wellness!
Melissa M
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It is best to avoid Eleuthero (Siberian Ginseng) if you have diabetes or HBP. Also, pay attention to your body w/it. I tried Tension Tamers tea, which made my body feel suddenly very anxious. When I Googled what Eleuthero was, I understood. So if you're very sensitive, I'd recommend avoiding it.
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This is very helpful information. I sooo appreciate the research and empirical data that you seek out before interpreting health information. Jane Buckley www.Primitifnewyork.com
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Great information it's always nice when you can get a list of herbs that target a specific area of concern. Thanks for the research.
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Great information, I didn't realize that belly fat could cause atheroscierosis as well as tumors and fibroid tissues. A very good reason to control our weight. I have been looking for natural remedies to achieve this so thank you, I also found that at www.vitalitybliss.com they have some great info on Holy Basil and many more natural remedies that will help with weight control.
send green star
why is this inappropriate?
Great information, I didn't realize that belly fat could cause atheroscierosis as well as tumors and fibroid tissues. A very good reason to control our weight. I have been looking for natural remedies to achieve this so thank you, I also found that at www.vitalitybliss.com they have some great info on Holy Basil and many more natural remedies that will help with weight control.
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why is this inappropriate?
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