The recent news on the hazards of weight-loss drugs overlooks mentioning the safe and effective plant-based options. At Dilston Physic Garden, we encourage exploring safer, plant-based solutions that have been shown effective in scientific studies without the risks associated with pharmaceuticals.
Although lifestyle changes (in exercise and diet) are the key to weight-loss for most: maintaining the balance of calorific intake and exercise output results in weight loss and a long-term healthy weight, for many this is a challenge. Weight loss drugs are a tempting shortcut to shedding pounds. However, these drugs often come with an array of side effects that may harm long-term health (details of which can be found at the end of this post).
Plant medicine offers viable alternatives to these drugs. Recent research shows that certain medicinal plants, when taken as plant medicine (the correct product and dose), can aid in weight loss by supporting metabolism, reducing appetite, and promoting healthy digestion.
Dietary supplements are also considered an attractive alternative due to their supposed low toxicity profile and their accessibility, as seen by the overwhelming array of dietary supplements in health food stores and online – such as minerals, vitamins, amino acids, metabolites, and of course the array of herbs and plant extracts and ‘weight-loss pills’- especially sold online. Caution should always be taken when purchasing any herbal supplement, and especially online ‘weight-loss pills’. We recommend sourcing all herbal supplements, and plant medicine, from only well-established reputable UK companies – irreputable companies can hide toxic active slimming agents for example in the ingredients list (see information on ‘herbal slimming pills’ containing Sibutramine at the end of this post).
Above all, including one or more safe edible medicinal plant as a dietary ingredient regularly in our food will not only support weight management, but also support our overall health and wellbeing long-term:
Overall Benefits of Plant-based Solutions
Before you read some of the plant-based solutions, bear in mind that this natural approach offers several key advantages over conventional weight loss drugs:
– Fewer Side Effects: When taken correctly plant medicine options typically cause fewer side effects, making them better for, and gentler on the body (Hursel et al., 2009; Neelakantan et al., 2014).
– Holistic Support: Many of the plants, such as nigella and ginger, offer a host of additional health benefits, improving digestion, reducing inflammation, controlling blood sugar, lipids, oxidation, inflammation and supporting cardiovascular health and enhancing mental clarity, for example. Many of these aspects of health are also directly affected in those who are overweight.
– Sustainable Choices: Plant-based solutions align with sustainable practices, benefiting both the individual and the environment.
Effective, Safe Medicinal Plants for Weight Management
A meta-analysis (a review of 279 relevant clinical trials in obese people) stated that for whole or processed plant products, plant medicine treatments containing green tea, common bean, Malabar tamarind, nigella (kalonji), puerh tea, African mango, and caralluma were found to be beneficial in managing obesity.
Leading the way with scientific evidence in clinical studies, is the humble green tea, though there are many more with clinical evidence – from flaxseed, spinach, and fenugreek showing appetite-suppressing effects to common bean, oats and nigella seed intake significantly improving weight, triglycerides and cholesterol profiles:
DRINKS
Green Tea Extract (Camellia sinensis)
Mechanism and Benefits: Rich in catechins, especially epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), green tea supports thermogenesis and fat oxidation, helping to boost metabolism naturally. Meta-analysis has shown that green tea intake significantly improves body weight, waist circumference, hip circumference, and cholesterol levels.
– Supporting Study: Hursel, R., et al. (2009). “Green Tea Catechin and Caffeine Synergy on Thermogenesis.” American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 89(6), 1798-1804.
Puerh Tea (Camellia sinensis var. assamica)
Mechanism and Benefits: Puerh tea supports weight management by enhancing lipid metabolism and reducing cholesterol. Studies indicate potential benefits for reducing BMI and weight in individuals with obesity. Having black tea (without milk) is better for absorbing the beneficial ingredients: for example black tea increased vascular function (FMD) compared to black tea with milk. Compared with hot water, black tea did not alter blood pressure, while black tea with milk increased systolic and diastolic blood pressure. Black tea and black tea with milk lowered heart rate compared to hot water.
– Supporting Studies: Zhang, M., et al. (2012). “A Meta-Analysis of Weight Loss with Green, Oolong, and Puerh Teas.” Journal of Clinical Biochemistry and Nutrition, 50(4), 220-226; Ahmad et al. (2018). “Effect of adding milk to black tea on vascular function in healthy men and women: a randomised controlled crossover trial” Food Funct. 13;9(12):6307-6314.
VEGETABLES
Common Bean (Phaseolus vulgaris)
Mechanism and Benefits: Compounds in common beans can reduce the digestion and absorption of starch, leading to reduced calorie intake and improved blood sugar regulation. Research indicates it can aid in weight loss and improve triglyceride levels.
– Supporting Study: Barrett, M. L., et al. (2011). “Effects of Phaseolus vulgaris on Body Weight and Composition in Overweight Adults.” Journal of Obesity, 2011, 320416.
Spinach (Spinacia oleracea)
Mechanism and Benefits: Spinach contains thylakoids, compounds that may promote satiety and reduce appetite by slowing fat digestion.
– Supporting Study: Montelius, C., et al. (2014). “Thylakoids from Spinach Suppress Appetite and Increase Weight Loss in Humans.” Appetite, 82, 17-23.
Caralluma (Caralluma fimbriata) – edible cactus
Mechanism and Benefits: This edible cactus-like plant is known for its appetite-suppressing properties. Research is variable however some studies shows it can reduce food intake and promote feelings of fullness.
– Supporting Study: Kuriyan, R., et al. (2007). “Effect of Caralluma Fimbriata Extract on Appetite, Food Intake and Anthropometry in Adults.” Appetite, 48(3), 338-344.
SEEDS
Oats (Avena sativa)
Mechanism and Benefits: Consumption of a whole-grain RTE (ready-to-eat) oat cereal as part of a dietary program for weight loss had favourable effects on fasting lipid levels and waist circumference. LDL cholesterol level, and total cholesterol and non-high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol was reduced significantly more with whole-grain RTE oat cereal versus control.
– Supporting Study: Maki et al. (2010) “Whole-grain ready-to-eat oat cereal, as part of a dietary program for weight loss, reduces low-density lipoprotein cholesterol in adults with overweight and obesity more than a dietary program including low-fibre control foods.” J Am Diet Assoc.: 110(2):205-14.
Flaxseed or Linseed (Linum usitatissimum)
Mechanism and Benefits: Flaxseed is high in fibre, which increases satiety and supports digestive health. It helps regulate blood sugar, making it easier to maintain balanced eating habits. Flaxseed is often promoted for digestive health (indigestion/heartburn, constipation, diarrhoea) by our associated pharmacist Milena Kopkowska who trained in dispensing plant medicine alongside mainstream medicine.
– Supporting Study: Soltanian, N., et al. (2018). “Effects of Flaxseed on Weight and Inflammatory Markers: A Systematic Review.” Nutrition Reviews, 76(11), 907-918.
SPICES
Ginger (Zingiber officinale)
– Mechanism and Benefits: Ginger has been shown to boost calorie burning and regulate appetite, supporting gradual weight loss.
– Supporting Study: Mansour, M. S., et al. (2018). “Ginger: An Anti-Obesity Agent.” Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition, 59(15), 1-12.
Fenugreek (Trigonella foenum-graecum)
Mechanism and Benefits: Rich in fiber, fenugreek can increase feelings of fullness and help regulate blood sugar levels, making it easier to maintain balanced eating habits.
– Supporting Study: Neelakantan, N., et al. (2014). “Effect of Fenugreek on Glycemia and Insulin Resistance.” Journal of Nutrition, 144(2), 171-180.
Nigella or Kalonji (Nigella sativa)
Mechanism and Benefits: Renown for its ‘tonic’ (general health-boosting effects) and its anti-inflammatory properties, nigella can help improve weight and triglycerides by regulating metabolism and lipid levels.
– Supporting Study: Sabzghabaee, A. M., et al. (2012). “Clinical Evaluation of Nigella sativa for the Treatment of Obesity.” Phytotherapy Research, 26(4), 526-529.
Cayenne Pepper (Capsicum annuum)
Mechanism and Benefits: Capsaicin, the active ingredient in cayenne pepper, promotes thermogenesis, helping to burn more calories and suppressing appetite.
– Supporting Study: Whiting, S., et al. (2012). “Capsaicinoids and Weight Management: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.” Appetite, 59(2), 341-348.
FRUIT
Bitter orange or Seville orange (Citrus aurantium).
Mechanisms and Benefits: Several studies suggest positive effect of bitter orange extract or its active chemical synephrine on weight loss. A single dose of synephrine alone increased basal metabolic rate in humans. Synephrine derived from C. aurantium is safe when taken up to 98 mg/day for 60 days. Caution: synephrine increases blood pressure and heart rate.
– Supporting Study – Kaats et al. (2013) “A 60day double-blind, placebo-controlled safety study involving Citrus aurantium (bitter orange) extract.” Food Chem Toxicol.: 55:358-62.
Mechanism and Benefits: African mango is high in fibre and promotes satiety, supporting weight loss by helping to reduce calorie intake. It has also been shown to improve cholesterol and triglyceride levels.
– Supporting Study: Ngondi, J. L., et al. (2009). “The Use of Irvingia gabonensis Seed Extract in the Management of Overweight.” Lipids in Health and Disease, 8(1), 7.
Malabar Tamarind, Garcinia gummi-gutta (Garcinia Cambogia)
Mechanism and Benefits: Its constituent hydroxycitric acid (HCA) is linked to reduced fat storage and appetite control. While effects vary, studies show modest benefits in weight management when combined with a healthy diet.
– Supporting Study: Onakpoya, I., et al. (2011). “The Use of Garcinia Cambogia Extract as a Natural Weight Loss Supplement: A Meta-Analysis.” Journal of Obesity, 2011, 509038.
SUMMARY – MEDICINAL PLANTS FOR WEIGHT MANAGEMENT
Although more high-quality studies are needed to confirm the efficacy and mechanisms of different plant medicine treatments in addressing obesity, there is clear evidence that you can:
– regularly add these edible medicinal plants, to your daily diet to support healthy weight maintenance, to support the physiological abnormalities associated with the development of cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes, and to support overall long-term health.
– take these plants at a medicinal level, as a plant medicine, to actively support weight loss. When taking any plant medicine for the first time, always first consult a NIMH registered medical herbalist, just as you would consult your pharmacist or GP, to ensure the right plant medicine fit for individual needs and if you are giving to a child, are pregnant, have any diagnosed conditions, or are taking any medications.
Side Effects of Prescription Weight-Loss Drugs
Despite advances in weight-loss treatments, including prescribed drugs that may be effective when used carefully and in combination with lifestyle adjustments, there are well-known risks associated with some of the commonly used drugs, and some have been withdrawn from the market due to links with cancer:
Common Side Effects of Prescription Weight-Loss Drugs
Serious Side-Effects Associated with Certain Weight-Loss Drugs
Weight loss drugs like appetite suppressants, fat blockers, and stimulants work by altering bodily processes, often causing significant side effects. These side effects, while sometimes variable by individual, are supported by studies documenting how these drugs impact body systems over short and long terms:
Increased Heart Rate and Blood Pressure Weight-loss medications, especially those with stimulant properties, can elevate heart rate and blood pressure. – Supporting Study: Verma, S., et al. (2018). “Cardiovascular and Weight Loss Drugs: A Systematic Review.” International Journal of Cardiology, 255, 219-226.
Mood Changes, Anxiety, and Depression Stimulant-based drugs, such as those containing phentermine, have been associated with mood swings, increased anxiety, and even depression, particularly with prolonged use. – Supporting Study: Carpenter, C. J., et al. (2018). “Side Effects of Stimulant-Based Weight Loss Medications.” Psychology Today.
Digestive Discomfort (Bloating, Gas, Diarrhoea) Fat blockers like orlistat interfere with fat absorption, which can lead to gastrointestinal issues including bloating, gas, and diarrhoea. – Supporting Study: Padwal, R., & Majumdar, S. R. (2007). “Drug Treatments for Obesity: Orlistat, Sibutramine, and Rimonabant.” The Lancet, 369(9555), 71-77.
Insomnia and Restlessness Stimulant-containing weight-loss medications, such as phentermine, are known to disrupt sleep, leading to insomnia and restlessness. – Supporting Study: Hendricks, E. J., & Greenway, F. L. (2011). “A Study of Stimulant Medication and Insomnia in Patients Treated for Obesity.” The American Journal of Drug and Alcohol Abuse, 37(5), 486-493.
Kidney and Liver Health Risks Certain weight-loss drugs, like orlistat, may impact liver and kidney function, particularly with long-term use. – Supporting Study: Lockwood, C. M., et al. (2017). “Orlistat-Associated Adverse Liver Injury: A Report of Two Cases and a Review of the Literature.” Journal of Clinical Gastroenterology, 51(9), 805-808.
Dependency and Withdrawal Symptoms Drugs such as phentermine can lead to dependency, with users experiencing withdrawal symptoms upon cessation. – Supporting Study: Grilo, C. M., et al. (2019). “Long-term Effects of Weight Loss Medications.” Journal of Clinical Psychiatry, 80(6).
Nausea and Vomiting Drugs like liraglutide, used for weight loss, commonly cause nausea and, less frequently, vomiting. – Supporting Study: Pi-Sunyer, X., et al. (2015). “A Randomized Controlled Trial of 3.0 mg of Liraglutide in Weight Management.” New England Journal of Medicine, 373, 11-22.
Headaches and Dizziness Some users of phentermine and other stimulants experience headaches and dizziness, which can hinder daily functioning. – Supporting Study: Bray, G. A., et al. (2016). “Safety and Tolerability of Phentermine in Obesity: A Meta-Analysis.” Obesity Reviews, 17(7), 793-802.
Gallstones Rapid weight loss associated with weight-loss drugs can increase the risk of gallstone formation. – Supporting Study: Shiffman, M. L., et al. (1993). “Gallstone Formation after Rapid Weight Loss: A Prospective Study.” Gastroenterology, 104(3), 912-916.
Fatigue and Weakness Calorie restriction combined with some weight-loss drugs may lead to physical fatigue and weakness, impacting quality of life and in turn overall health. Some semaglutide drugs (such as Ozempic) have been shown to impact positive behaviours, such as lowering the desire to exercise in laboratory studies. – Supporting Study: Jensen, M. D., et al. (2014). “Obesity and Fatigue: Assessment and Management.” Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, 99(3), 748-756.
There is also evidence suggesting that some weight-loss drugs may be associated with an increased risk of certain cancers and neuropsychiatric conditions:
1. Orlistat and Cancer
Orlistat, a common fat-blocking weight-loss drug, has raised concerns about its ability to cause liver injury and its potential association with an increased risk of colorectal cancer. Although cancer risk studies short follow-up times limit conclusions, this association has not yet been proven, and in fact Orlistat appears to have beneficial anti-cancer properties. Orlistat blocks the absorption of fat in the intestine, which may lead to changes in the gut environment overtime and is associated with liver injury.
– Supporting Study: Nickell, S. P., et al. (2014). “Risk of Colorectal Cancer in Users of Orlistat: Population Based Cohort Study.” BMJ, 349, g4483.
– Supporting Study: Haslam, D. W., et al. (2017). “Safety Concerns in Anti-Obesity Drugs: Orlistat, Lorcaserin, and Sibutramine.” Current Obesity Reports, 6(2), 165-171.
Sibutramine and Cardiovascular Risk
Sibutramine (Reductil), an appetite suppressant is no longer available in the U.S. and European markets due to safety concerns. It has been associated with serious cardiovascular adverse events. Unfortunately, Sibutramine can be a hidden active agent in supposed herbal weight-loss pills sold online and use of these has caused hospital admissions.
– Supporting Study: Wang, Y., et al. (2013). “Safety Concerns with Sibutramine: A Review of its Hepatotoxicity and Other Adverse Effects.” Drug Safety, 36(5), 333-344.
Lorcaserin and Cancer Risk
Lorcaserin, an appetite suppressant approved by the FDA in 2012, was withdrawn from the market in 2020 due to an increased incidence of cancer observed in a post-marketing clinical trial. The trial reported a higher number of cases of various cancers, including pancreatic, colorectal, and lung cancers, in patients who took Lorcaserin compared to those who took a placebo, and a subsequent meta-analysis review also confirm a trend this direction.
– Supporting Study: U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). (2020). “FDA Requests the Withdrawal of the Weight-Loss Drug Belviq, Belviq XR (Lorcaserin) from the Market.” FDA website.
Rimonabant and Neuropsychiatric Concerns
Like Orlistat, Rimonabant may have anti-cancer properties, however Rimonabant (a CB1 antagonist appetite suppressant) was withdrawn from the market due to serious psychiatric side effects (an increased risk of anxiety, depression and suicide).
– Supporting Study: Topol et al. (2010) “Rimonabant for prevention of cardiovascular events (CRESCENDO): a randomised, multicentre, placebo-controlled trial.” Lancet. 2010 Aug 14;376(9740):517-23.
Summary of Serious Side Effect Risks
Each of these drugs has either been withdrawn from the market or, such as with Orlistat in the UK, is prescribed with caution in countries where it’s still available.
While these findings are significant, they also highlight the need for more long-term studies on weight-loss drugs, as cancer can take years to develop and neuropsychiatric risks may differ with individuals and both may be influenced by multiple factors.
What to take away?
Obesity is a major global health concern linked to numerous complications including heart disease, stroke, type-2 diabetes, 13 types of cancer, fatty liver disease, osteoarthritis, digestive issues, sleep apnoea, and mental health challenges. The only way to address this long-term is through health awareness. Education in health awareness, nutrition and medicinal plants, must be seen as important as maths education in schools.
The existing evidence of using drugs with a range of side effects underlines the importance of exploring safe, natural alternatives for weight management, particularly when considering potential long-term risks like cancer.
Rather than seeking rapid weight loss through pharmaceuticals, a holistic approach that includes plant-based support and balanced nutrition and exercise, will provide sustainable, long-term results. What’s more, as we’ve explored the plant-based treatment options, it’s also important that not only are they a safer solution to drugs when used correctly, but they also have a range of effects that promote metabolic and holistic health and wellbeing.
Through our Resources pages, Dilston Physic Garden invites you to explore plant-based wellness. By understanding and utilising the forgotten, now science-based, power of plant medicine, we can help not only maintain a healthy weight, but a healthy body and mind long-term.
