Use of herbal appetite suppressants to aid weight loss

Aim: Obesity has become a common health problem worldwide and is a major risk factor for noncommunicable diseases such as cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, musculoskeletal disorders, and some cancers. Thus, weight loss has become a hot topic within the general discussion on health and well-being, and many products are marketed as aids in weight loss. This presentation aims to raise awareness about the role herbal supplements may play in weight management as part of a healthy lifestyle. Methodology: A systematic review of recent peer-reviewed literature on the application of herbal materials or specialised plant metabolites in weight management. Results: A range of herbal products and specialised metabolites is used in weight loss: some increase human metabolic rate, others act as inhibitors of digestion of either fats or carbohydrates, whereas a third group affects the process appetite. The latter can be achieved through creating the sensation of satiety or by other mechanisms that suppress appetite. Conclusions: Whereas various products are commonly marketed as aids to weight loss, there is currently little scientific consensus on their efficacy or on potential adverse effects of herbal supplements.