Using Herbal Remedies to Maintain Optimal Weight

Although no herbs or herbal combinations simply melt away excess fat, some herbs complement diet and exercise and support weight loss. Herbs as food or whole plant formulations can assist with weight loss through modification of stress, support for healthy gastric and elimination function, and promotion of normal metabolism. Herbs used as food, quality teas, or as herbal medicines are ways practitioners can incorporate herbs in therapeutic lifestyle changes for weight loss. For additional resources that NPs can use in practice, consider turning to the Natural Medicine Database (http://www.naturaldatabase.com), the American Botanical Council (http://www.herbalgram.org), or Natural Standard (http://www.naturalstandard.com).