20 min read

Updated On Jul 2024
Updated On Jul 2024

11 Best Herbs For Weight Loss To Add To Your Diet

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Sapna Kanojia
Sapna Kanojia

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Varsha Pramodh

Varsha Pramodh is a Registered Dietitian and a Metabolic Nutrition Consultant.

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Do you want to lose weight naturally? Weight loss begins with cleansing the body’s toxins. Many herbs and plants help to purify bodies and remove toxins. Also, they help us maintain good health, and herbs for weight loss help us burn those extra pounds too.

These natural herbs not only promote detoxification and weight loss but also improve overall health. They enhance liver function, blood circulation, insulin sensitivity, digestion, and more.

So, in this article, we are going to discover some of the best weight loss herbs and their health benefits. Let’s begin!

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What Are Herbs?

Herbs are plants that are known for their flavor, scent, medicinal properties, or other qualities. These plants are used in cooking, for medicinal purposes, for fragrance, and even for spiritual practices. 

Herbs can be leaves, stems, flowers, seeds, roots, and sometimes even the bark of certain plants. People often use them fresh or dried in cooking, teas, infusions, extracts, and various other preparations. 

For thousands of years, herbs have been an integral part of human culture and civilization. There are different types of herbs such as aromatic herbs, medicinal herbs, culinary herbs, ornamental herbs, etc.

11 Best Herbs For Weight Loss

Discover the best weight loss herbs and reach your weight loss goals with nature’s help. These potent herbs can boost your metabolism and suppress your appetite, making it easier for you to achieve a healthier, slimmer you.

11 Best herbs for weight loss

1. Turmeric

For centuries, people have used turmeric in traditional medicine for its many health benefits, including weight loss. It contains a powerful antioxidant called curcumin, which has anti-inflammatory properties and can help boost metabolism, which in turn may also aid in weight loss. 

Here are some other health benefits of turmeric that may help you lose weight:

  • Boosts Metabolism: Studies have shown that curcumin, the active ingredient in turmeric, boosts metabolism and increases the rate at which the body burns calories. This can help with weight loss efforts, especially when combined with a healthy diet and exercise.
  • Reduces Inflammation: Chronic inflammation in the body can lead to weight gain and other health problems too. However, turmeric has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation in the body and contribute to weight loss.
  • Regulates Blood Sugar Levels: It can help regulate blood sugar levels, which can prevent insulin spikes and control the production that helps weight loss too.
  • Reduces Fat Tissue: Herbs for weight loss also help reduce the growth and accumulation of fat tissue in the body, which can aid in burning those extra calories.
  • Controls Appetite: Turmeric can help control appetite and reduce food cravings, which can help prevent overeating and contribute to weight loss.

Overall, turmeric is a medicinal herb that not only contributes to better health but also includes a healthy diet and can aid in weight loss naturally. Also, you can try below mentioned various recipes with turmeric for your weight loss diet plan:

Hot Turmeric Milk Recipe

It’s a healthy and interesting recipe for your weight-loss diet. It not only boosts your metabolism but also helps you shed those extra pounds. Try it today!

2. Ginger

We already use ginger in our regular foods but are you aware of its beneficial properties? Ginger not only helps in weight loss but also improves digestion and stimulates the formation of gastric juices. 

You can also add ginger and various dishes, recipes, drinks, and desserts such as jams, gingerbread, ginger tea, etc. Here are the other essential benefits of ginger:

  • Boosts Metabolism: The properties of ginger help increase metabolism and help burn stored fat, which can lead to losing weight.
  • Reduces Appetite: Ginger can help reduce appetite and food cravings, which can prevent overeating and aid in weight loss efforts.
  • Regulates Blood Sugar Levels: Ginger is best for people suffering from diabetes because it helps regulate blood sugar levels and promotes insulin production in the body.
  • Improves Digestion: Herbs for weight loss can improve digestion and reduce inflammation in the gut, which can help lose weight by improving nutrient absorption and reducing bloating.
  • Reduces Inflammation: Chronic inflammation can contribute to weight gain and other health problems. Ginger has anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce inflammation in the body.

However, ginger is like a magic solution for weight loss, adding it to a healthy diet and exercise routine can help you lose some pounds and improve overall health. Try these ginger recipes to lose weight!

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Turmeric And Ginger Tea

The Turmeric and ginger tea recipe is another healthiest option to replace your morning drink. You can have this magic portion to burn extra pounds and improve your health conditions.

3. Cinnamon

Research has shown that cinnamon, a popular spice, has several health benefits, including aiding in weight loss. It helps fight against many diseases and strengthens our immune systems too. 

Due to the content of dietary fiber, cinnamon reduces the likelihood of oncology in the large intestine. This fragrant spice helps cleanse the choleretic system and liver and removes excess bile salts from the body. 

Here are some ways on how cinnamon for weight loss works:

  • Improves Digestion: Cinnamon exhibits antiseptic, antimicrobial, and antiparasitic properties and contributes to fighting fungal diseases and improving the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract. These herbs for weight loss are effective as an astringent, relieve both diarrhea and constipation and cause flatus.
  • Controls Blood Sugar Levels: Studies have found that cinnamon helps in treating diabetes. Polyphenol, which is part of this spice, helps the body absorb insulin more easily and maintains the sugar levels in the body.
  • Helps Lose Weight: Cinnamon drinks give an acute feeling of hunger, and exhaustion will not appear, because it gives a sense of satisfaction. Also, this nutrient-rich herb supplies many trace elements and vitamins in the body that help lose weight.

Taking cinnamon water or drinks regularly is quite an effective and natural way to get rid of excess weight and maintain good health. You can try the below recipe to lose weight!

Apple Cinnamon Detox Water

Apple cinnamon detox water is a refreshing and healthy drink that can help you flush out toxins from your body while also keeping you hydrated. Here’s how you can make it:

4. Ginseng

People often use ginseng, also known as the “Root of Life,” to treat many diseases. Due to its richness of active compounds, it helps lose weight and positively affects the internal organs. 

These ginseng herbs for weight loss can also help reduce stress and improve mental clarity, which can help reduce emotional eating. Here are some other health benefits of ginseng:

  • Help You Lose Weight: The active substances in the composition of its root increase the metabolic rate. Ginseng contains fewer calories that help transform fat into energy.
  • Enhances Exercise Performance: Some research suggests that ginseng supplementation can improve exercise performance. This is because ginseng helps to increase endurance and reduce fatigue, which can support weight loss efforts.
  • Relieve Stress: Studies have found that ginseng has cooling effects that relieve stress and increase physical endurance.
  • Increases Energy And Endurance: Ginseng can increase energy levels and endurance, which can help with physical activity and exercise that helps lose pounds and keeps you active all day long.

For healthy fat burning, simply add 2-3 drops of liquid extract or 1 tsp powder of ginseng in your regular drink or into porridge, fruit, or vegetable puree to get all the ginseng benefits.

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5. Chamomile

While chamomile is known for its many health benefits and weight loss is also one of them. Chamomile is an herb that has been traditionally used to help reduce stress and promote relaxation, which can indirectly benefit weight loss by reducing stress eating.

  • Improves Sleep Quality: Lack of sleep quality contributes to weight gain. Chamomile tea can improve sleep quality, regulate hunger hormones, and reduce cravings for high-calorie foods, supporting weight loss efforts.
  • Promotes Digestive Health: Herbs for weight loss help to soothe gastrointestinal discomfort and reduce bloating. Better digestion can support overall well-being and indirectly contribute to weight management.
  • Helps Lose Weight: Chamomile is very useful for those who are struggling with being overweight. Chamomile tea helps reduce hunger and keeps you active. It also normalizes the metabolism and helps cure obesity.
  • Controls Diabetes: The properties of chamomile are also useful for people with diabetes. It controls insulin production and reduces the glucose levels in the blood. 

You can add the chamomile recipes to your diet to lose weight!

Chamomile Tea

It is a popular herbal tea that is made from the flowers of the chamomile plant. It has a mild and soothing flavor and is known for its relaxing, calming, and weight-loss properties. Here’s how you can make chamomile tea:

6. Fenugreek

Fenugreek is not just a popular and tasty herb but is well known for its properties that help fight against obesity. It is a low-calorie herb that contains other complex minerals such as potassium, calcium, sodium, zinc, etc. 

It’s an excellent source of essential amino acids that help maintain good health and keep us slim.

  • Appetite Regulation: Fenugreek seeds contain soluble fiber which can help you feel fuller for longer periods and reduce your overall appetite. This, in turn, can help you consume fewer calories throughout the day.
  • Helps To Regulate Blood Sugar: Fenugreek can regulate blood sugar levels, improve insulin sensitivity, and prevent glucose spikes and crashes. Herbs for weight loss can also help control cravings and overeating, which can aid in weight loss.
  • Metabolism Boost: Some studies suggest that fenugreek can enhance metabolism and increase fat burning. This can potentially aid in weight loss efforts as well.
  • Improve Digestion: The enzymes present in fenugreek seeds help to improve the functioning of the stomach, intestines, and other digestive problems.
  • Helps Reduce Belly Fat: According to recent studies, it is found that fenugreek seeds have anti-inflammatory effects that not only help reduce inflammation but also burn fat. It helps repair damaged cells and increase muscle mass too. Check out the recipe below with fenugreek to lose weight!

Methi Water

Methi water or fenugreek water, is a drink made by soaking fenugreek seeds and drinking the water in the morning on an empty stomach. It helps regulate blood sugar levels, improve digestion, boost metabolism, and also aid in weight loss. Here’s how you can make methi water:

7. Dandelion

Dandelion is also called a nuisance weed, but it is also eaten and widely used in herbal medicine. Drinking dandelion tea is a good way to reach your weight loss goal many people use it and achieve great results without any side effects.

  • Low In Calories: Dandelion tea is the best fit for your calorie deficit diet plan. One cup contains only 2-3 calories. So, if you’re used to drinking a high-calorie drink like soda that contains 150 calories per cup, switching to dandelion tea (herbs for weight loss) will save you 145 calories a day.
  • Improve Digestion: Another positive effect of this herb for weight loss is that it improves digestion by stimulating gastric secretion, and also accelerates the breakdown of fats and cholesterol in the body. This can indirectly help in weight loss.
  • Appetite Regulation: Some animal studies suggest that dandelion extract may help regulate appetite and reduce food intake. This can potentially support weight loss efforts by promoting satiety.
  • Nutrient Density: Dandelion greens are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, including vitamin C, vitamin A, potassium, and magnesium. Including them in your diet can support sustainable weight management.
  • Liver Health: Traditionally, people have used dandelion root to support liver health and detoxification. Efficient metabolism and fat burning require a healthy liver, which can indirectly contribute to weight loss.
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8. Green Tea

Nothing is better than green tea if we talk about herbs for weight loss. Nowadays green tea for weight loss is available in many flavors and varieties to make them the best fit for everyone. 

Also, we can’t deny the beneficial properties it has. In addition, it is a rich source of many essential nutrients that help improve health and promote weight loss naturally.

  • Metabolism Boost: Green tea is a type of tea that is known to contain a group of antioxidants called catechins, including epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG). Studies have shown that drinking green tea can help the body burn more calories, even when at rest.
  • Burn Fat: EGCG and other catechins in green tea also promote fat oxidation, the process by which fat is broken down and used as energy. This leads to a reduction in body fat, particularly in the abdominal area.
  • Appetite Suppression: Green tea can make you feel fuller, which could lead to you consuming fewer calories and possibly aid in weight management. Some studies suggest that drinking green tea regularly could be beneficial for your health.
  • Thermogenic Properties: Green tea has thermogenic properties, meaning it can increase body temperature and promote calorie burning. This effect, along with its metabolism-boosting properties, can contribute to weight loss.
  • Blood Sugar Regulation: Green tea may help regulate blood sugar levels by improving insulin sensitivity. Stable blood sugar levels can help prevent spikes in hunger and cravings, making it easier to maintain a healthy weight with herbs for weight loss.

Green Tea Pear Smoothie Recipe

This smoothie is packed with antioxidants from green tea and fresh pear, which may help detoxify the body and promote healthy weight loss. In addition, it’s a great way to start your day or for a mid-day energy boost. Enjoy!

Iced Green Tea Latte

This iced green tea latte is a perfect refreshing drink for hot summer days. However, it’s a great alternative to traditional coffee lattes, and the natural antioxidants in green tea offer many potential health benefits. Here’s how you can make this recipe:

9. Cayenne Pepper

Cayenne pepper is a type of chili pepper that has been used for centuries in cooking, due to its spicy flavor and pungent aroma. It’s a popular ingredient in many dishes worldwide, from curries and sauces to soups and marinades.

Apart from its culinary uses, cayenne pepper has many health benefits that come from its active compound called capsaicin.

  • Boosts Metabolism: Capsaicin is responsible for the heat in cayenne pepper and has been shown to have several health benefits. One of the most well-known benefits is that it can help with weight loss by increasing metabolism and promoting the burning of calories.
  • Reduces Appetite: Additionally, capsaicin can help to reduce appetite and calorie intake by suppressing hunger and increasing feelings of fullness because it is one of the best herbs for weight loss.
  • Promotes Fat Burning: Cayenne pepper can also promote fat burning and fat loss over time. It does this by stimulating the breakdown of fats and promoting fat oxidation.
  • Increases Energy Expenditure: Cayenne pepper can help you lose weight by increasing your energy expenditure. The spicy compound capsaicin makes your body work harder to process it, which burns more calories and supports weight loss.

When it comes to cooking with cayenne pepper, it’s important to use it sparingly if you’re not accustomed to spicy foods, as it can be very hot. Additionally, individuals with gastrointestinal issues or sensitivity to spicy foods should use caution when consuming cayenne pepper.

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10. Black Pepper

Black pepper is also good for weight loss. This herbal spice is very popular all over the world. You can also prepare dishes by using black pepper such as pepper rasam, and salads to improve your health.

  • Stimulates Metabolism: The black pepper contains components that have a stimulating effect on metabolism. According to studies, using black pepper can increase the metabolic processes in the body so much that it will lead to a slight increase in body temperature. It impacts largely on our body which increases the processes of “fat burning” and helps you get rid of some pounds.
  • Fat Reduction: Piperine can also help you manage your weight. This compound in herbs for weight loss prevents the formation of new fat cells and reduces the accumulation of fat in the body. This can lead to a decrease in body fat percentage, helping you achieve your weight management goals.
  • Improves Digestion: For centuries black pepper has been known to aid in digestion by stimulating the production of digestive enzymes. This promotes nutrient absorption and prevents bloating and indigestion, common barriers to weight loss.
  • Regulate Appetite: Recent research suggests that black pepper has properties that can affect hormones that control hunger and satiety. Adding black pepper to your meals may lead to a feeling of fullness and reduce your calorie intake.
  • Blood Sugar Control: One of the most notable abilities of piperine is to improve insulin sensitivity and regulate blood sugar levels. When your blood sugar levels are stable, you’re less likely to experience spikes in hunger and cravings, which can make it easier to stick to a healthy eating plan and maintain a calorie deficit for weight loss.

You can include pepper in your recipes, one of the recipes is mentioned below.

Pepper Rasam

It’s a popular dish in South Indian cuisine and a great remedy for fever and cold. Its spices give it a unique spicy tangy, flavorful taste. Here’s a simple recipe for pepper rasam

11. Green Coffee Bean Extract 

They are popular herbs for weight loss due to their high chlorogenic acid content. Green coffee bean extract aids in weight loss by reducing carb absorption, increasing metabolism, and suppressing appetite. However, it should be used in conjunction with a healthy diet and exercise routine, and you should speak to a doctor before trying it.

  1. Metabolism Boost: Green coffee bean extract contains chlorogenic acid, which can increase metabolism and calorie expenditure. This can potentially support weight loss efforts by helping to burn more calories throughout the day.
  2. Fat Burning: Some research suggests that chlorogenic acid can promote fat burning by enhancing the activity of fat-burning enzymes and reducing the absorption of fat from the diet. This can contribute to a reduction in body fat percentage and aid in weight management.
  3. Appetite Regulation: Green coffee bean extract helps regulate appetite by affecting hormones that control hunger and satiety. Consuming green coffee bean extract reduces calorie intake and increases feelings of fullness, making it easier to stick to a calorie-controlled diet.
  4. Blood Sugar Control: Chlorogenic acid has been found to improve insulin sensitivity and regulate blood sugar levels. Stable blood sugar levels can help to prevent spikes in hunger and cravings, making it easier to maintain a healthy eating plan for weight loss.


Green coffee bean extract is often taken in supplement form, and the quality and purity of these supplements can vary. Therefore, it’s essential to choose reliable brands and consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen, especially if you have underlying health conditions or concerns.

Moreover, Garcinia Cambogia is reputed for its potential in aiding weight loss through appetite suppression and fat metabolism support.

It’s important to combine herbs for weight loss with a balanced diet and regular exercise to achieve the best possible results. Remember, there is no magic pill for weight loss, and it’s important to approach weight loss in a healthy, sustainable way.

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Success Story Of Komal: Incredible Weight Loss Journey

“Adapting to a healthy lifestyle requires a lot of determination,” says Komaldeep from New Zealand who lost 14 kgs in just 90 days. She reached out to us concerned about his health and increasing weight. However, our Fitelo’s dietitians worked closely with Komaldeep and provided her customized diet plans with multiple cheat meal options that helped a lot throughout her weight loss journey. Read the full story and see how she achieved her desired weight!

Chai/Tea Drinking Mistakes That Cause Weight Gain 

Chai is an essential part of our day-to-day life. However, it not only keeps us refreshed but also increases alertness. But do you know that tea or chai also makes you fat? Yes, drinking chai can increase body weight and is also responsible for bad digestive health. Check out this video to identify the top 5 reasons/Mistakes people are not healthily consuming tea.

Let’s Wind Up!

Well, there are plenty of spices and herbs for weight loss that influence our health in many ways. But here we have listed a few of them that help you lose weight along with many other health benefits. 

Also, you can simply add them to your dishes or brew them directly in boiling water to enjoy their benefits and remove impurities from the body. Herbs like green tea, cayenne pepper, and fenugreek can complement a healthy diet and active lifestyle by offering metabolism-boosting properties, regulating appetite, and aiding fat burning. 

However, sustainable weight loss requires a holistic approach that includes nutritious eating habits, regular physical activity, and adequate hydration. It’s recommended to consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating herbal supplements into your routine. 

By doing so, you can achieve your weight loss goals while improving your overall health and well-being.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which Is The Best Herb For Weight Loss?

There is no single “best” herb for weight loss as effectiveness can vary among individuals. However, green tea is widely recognized for its metabolism-boosting properties and ability to aid in fat burning.

What Herbs Can I Take To Reduce Belly Fat?

Ginger and cinnamon are effective herbs for reducing belly fat due to their ability to boost metabolism, regulate blood sugar levels, and promote fat burning. Additionally, green tea contains compounds that target abdominal fat and aid in weight loss.

How To Take Herbs For Weight Loss?

Incorporating herbs like ginger, turmeric, or fenugreek into meals, teas, or smoothies can help with weight loss along with a balanced diet and regular exercise. Talk to a healthcare professional before taking any herbal supplements.

How Do Weight Loss Herbs Work?

Weight loss herbs contain compounds that boost metabolism, increase fat oxidation, and regulate appetite, promoting calorie expenditure and aiding in fat loss. Additionally, certain they possess anti-inflammatory properties that may indirectly support weight loss by improving metabolic health.

Which Are Good Herbs For Hair Growth? 

Herbs like rosemary and peppermint stimulate hair follicles, promoting growth and thickness. Additionally, fenugreek and aloe vera possess nourishing properties that can strengthen hair and prevent breakage.

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Contact Us Today

If you’re searching for the right guidance as well as better assistance, then your search to find the right guidance to be a part of all those fat-to-fit stories ends here. So, contact us today if you want a diet plan with cheat meals. Also, we will discuss how we can help you achieve your weight loss goals.

Disclaimer

This blog post was written to help you to make healthy and better food choices altogether. So, be aware and take care. The important thing to consider is your health before starting a restrictive diet. Always seek advice from a doctor/dietitian before starting if you have any concerns.

Eat Healthy, Live Healthy. Enjoy a long happy life!

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