Effect of selected herbal formulations on anthropometry and body composition in overweight and obese individuals: A randomized, double blind, placebo-controlled study

Abstract

BackgroundObesity is currently one of the biggest health challenges, worldwide. In the absence of safe and effective drug/s for the management of obesity, two polyherbal formulations namely Trimad (comprising of Cyperus rotundus tubers, Embelia ribes fruits and Plumbago zeylanica roots) and Triphala (combination of Terminalia chebula, Termenalia bellerica and Phyllanthus emblica fruits) were evaluated for their effects in overweight and obese individuals. MethodologyWith permission of the Ethics Committee, a double blind, placebo controlled, randomized clinical study was conducted. A total of 120 individuals of either sex, between 18 and 60 years of age, with Body Mass Index (BMI) ≥25 kg/m2 were recruited for the study. Overweight individuals received aqueous extract of either the study drugs or placebo, in the form of tablets weighing 500 mg, at a dose of 2 tablets twice daily while obese individuals received 2 tablets thrice daily. All individuals were followed for 4 months; 3 months with medicines and thereafter 1 month without medicine. Anthropometric measures viz. weight (kg), circumferential measures of waist, hip, neck, mid upper arm, mid thigh (cms) and body composition (fat and muscle mass) were recorded at monthly intervals. ResultsBoth the Trimad and Triphala treated individuals showed significant weight loss as compared to placebo at the end of 3 months. The number of individuals demonstrating ≥ 5% decrease in weight were significantly more in Triphala group as compared to placebo. The formulations also significantly decreased circumferential measures and body fat percentage. Further, the patients reported improvement in allied health ailments such as decrease in fatigue. ConclusionBoth formulations Trimad and Triphala have demonstrated a promising role in reducing weight, circumferential measures and body fat.