Identification and composition of herbal weight loss products

Abstract

The common use of alternative medicine, including herbal products, has been documented in the United States. Dietitians need to be aware of herbal weight loss products, their rationale for use and possible side effects. Herbal products are considered food supplements in the United States although they may have drug like effects. Seven health food stores in the Boulder, Colorado area were surveyed. The weight loss section of each store was identified and all products containing herbs were tabulated. The herbs in each formula were listed and quantitated by occurrence. Store clerks were asked to identify the best selling herbal weight loss products. Twenty eight different herbal formulas were identified containing a total of 68 different herbs. Eleven of the 28 herbal products were found in two or more stores, while 17 products were found in only one store. Most of the herbal ingredients found in the products fell into the categories of stimulants, laxatives, diuretics and anorectics. The most common ingredient found in the products was ephedra (Ma Huang). Ephedra was also an ingredient found in the products identified as being best sellers. Ephedra is an herb that contains the compound ephedrine that has been shown to have an anorectic effect, promote weight loss and lipid oxidation in humans subjects. However, ephedrine has potential side effects on the cardiovascular system and central nervous system. During diet counseling, clients may not view information about herbal weight loss products as significant yet the efficacy and safety of these herbal products needs to be considered.