Using an herbal appetite suppressant safely and effectively can be an excellent tool in weight management. Below are a handful of herbal remedies to curb eating impulses, as well as a few things to consider when choosing this alternative approach.

Stimulants

Many appetite suppressants, whether herbal or man-made, work as stimulants. A stimulant speeds up your heart rate which in turn can create a faster burning metabolism and result in weight loss. The problem here is that the body can only take so much stimulation. Too much can cause unnecessary stress on your heart, thyroid, kidneys, liver and more.

Caffeine is a common stimulant that is mostly obtained from drinking coffee. If you do not have any adverse reactions, the best caffeine choice is a botanical source as opposed to a legume or bean source like coffee. Yerba mate' is an herbal botanical source of caffeine that can be consumed as a tea. It is made from the leaf of the yerba mate' bush and contains properties such as theobromine and theophylline. These stimulate heart tissue while at the same time relaxing muscles. Therefore, rather than suffer a strain on the central nervous system by creating a fast energy spike and just as fast energy crash, yerba mate' infuses a slow energy jolt and calm withdrawal. This allows the body to embrace it rather than shake and jitter through it. In turn, this botanical caffeine stimulates the metabolism and suppresses appetite, with little or no side effects.

HCA - Hydroxycitric Acid and Garcinia Cambogia

Hydroxycitric acid is considered by some to be a potent weight loss option. It is extracted from different plants, including the popular Malabar Tamarind. This small, sweet fruit is grown in India and also goes by the name Mangosteen or Garcinia Cambogia. It works by stimulating the metabolism (without the energy-changing effects of caffeine), and allegedly results in weight loss and fat mass loss. HCA is found in many over-the-counter weight loss products. However, according to a report by The Journal of American Medicine Association (JAMA), "Garcinia cambogia failed to produce significant weight loss and fat mass loss beyond that observed with placebo." Therefore, be wary of this appetite suppressant when shopping around. Keep in mind that many people feel it is effective regardless of clinical trials.

Good Appetite Suppressants

Below are a few appetite suppressants that may work for you.

• Aloe Vera Juice - This juice enhances digestion, naturally detoxifying the digestive tract and creating a healthier, stable appetite. It is safe to drink four to eight ounces per day and it's also excellent for the skin.
• Bee Pollen - 1 teaspoon daily curbs appetite and energizes metabolism. Do not take if you're allergic to bees.
• Evening Primrose Oil - A great female tonic, this extract contains tryptophan, which has been associated with weight loss. Take half a teaspoon three times per day.
• Pineapple - Bromelain is an enzyme in pineapple that digests fats and proteins, creating smoother digestion and healthier appetite.
• Psyllium Seed/Plantain - This seed found in some over-the-counter natural formulas as well as the plantain, suppresses the appetite if taken in water before meals.