Last updated: Apr 12, 2024
10 best herbal teas for appetite suppression
When seeking a natural solution to curb hunger pangs, certain herbal teas have proven effective in supporting appetite suppression.
Peppermint tea, with its refreshing flavor, helps slow down digestion and reduces hunger feelings. Meanwhile, Garcinia Cambogia tea, derived from the rind of a tropical fruit, has been shown to suppress appetite and inhibit fat production. Furthermore, Gymnema Sylvestre tea, an Indian herb, reduces sweetness cravings and increases satiety, making it an excellent choice for those trying to lose weight.
By incorporating these herbal teas into your daily routine, you'll be better equipped to manage hunger and make healthier food choices.
1. Green Tea
Green tea assists with appetite suppression due to its natural catechins, particularly EGCG, which increase the release of intestinal hormones, causing a feeling of fullness.
This fullness reduces the desire to eat, aiding in weight loss. Moreover, green tea's caffeine content delays stomach emptying, prolonging the sensation of fullness. Additionally, green tea's bioactive compounds boost metabolic rate, further promoting weight management.
Finally, green tea's antioxidants help balance blood sugar levels, stabilizing energy and minimizing cravings.
Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in green tea tea that help with appetite suppression.
- Leaves: Green tea leaves are rich in catechins and caffeine, which increase fat oxidation and satiety, making them ideal for appetite suppression.
- Buds: The unopened leaf buds of green tea contain high levels of epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), a catechin that aids in weight loss by reducing appetite.
- Stems: Green tea stems are a source of flavonoids and volatile oils that can help increase metabolism and suppress appetite, promoting weight loss.
- Seeds: Green tea seeds, or nuts, contain healthy fats and antioxidants that can help reduce inflammation and improve satiety, aiding in appetite suppression.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in green tea tea that aid with appetite suppression.
- Caffeine: Acts as a stimulant and a mild diuretic, increasing metabolism and reducing appetite.
- Epigallocatechin gallate: A type of catechin that can increase fat oxidation and help with weight loss.
- Theanine: An amino acid that can aid in stress reduction and has been shown to decrease food intake.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic green tea tea for appetite suppression.
- Boil 8 ounces of water to 160-170°F, taking 3-5 minutes.
- Place 1 teaspoon of high-quality green tea leaves in a teapot or infuser.
- Pour hot water over the tea leaves, steep for 2-3 minutes for optimal extraction.
- Remove tea leaves to prevent over-steeping and bitterness.
- Sip and enjoy the green tea throughout the day, between meals, and whenever hunger strikes.
2. Oolong
Oolong tea's appetite-suppressing ability stems from its rich content of bioactive compounds, particularly caffeine and epigallocatechin gallate.
These substances work synergistically to increase the release of satiety hormones, such as cholecystokinin, which signals fullness to the brain. Moreover, oolong tea enhances metabolic rate and fat oxidation, further contributing to weight management. Its polyphenols impede the absorption of dietary fats and carbohydrates, reducing overall calorie intake.
Consequently, incorporating oolong tea into a balanced diet and regular exercise routine promotes appetite control and supports weight loss goals.
Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in oolong tea that help with appetite suppression.
- Leaves: The leaves of the oolong plant are used to make medicinal tea for appetite suppression due to their high concentration of antioxidants that help to reduce hunger.
- Stems: The stems of the oolong plant contain various bioactive compounds that help to suppress appetite by slowing down the digestion process.
- Buds: The buds of the oolong plant have been found to contain high levels of flavonoids that aid in appetite suppression by increasing satiety and reducing cravings.
- Flowers: The flowers of the oolong plant contain essential oils with appetite-suppressing properties.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in oolong tea that aid with appetite suppression.
- Caffeine: Stimulates the nervous system, suppressing appetite and increasing metabolism.
- L-Theanine: Promotes relaxation without drowsiness, helping to reduce overeating due to stress.
- EGCG: Increases fat oxidation and reduces appetite, aiding in weight management.
- Theobromine: Gently stimulates the heart and circulation, providing a mild appetite-suppressant effect.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic oolong tea for appetite suppression.
- Measure - Boil 16 ounces of water and allow it to cool down to 200-212 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Combine - Place one teaspoon of high-quality oolong tea leaves in an infuser or teapot.
- Steep - Pour the hot water over the tea leaves and let it steep for 3-5 minutes to extract the flavor and health benefits.
- Strain - Remove the infuser or strain the tea leaves before pouring the liquid into a cup.
- Serve - Drink the oolong tea warm, up to three times a day, 30 minutes before meals to help control appetite.
3. Yerba Mate
Yerba mate tea contains a variety of nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, that support overall health and well-being.
This tea's moderate caffeine content promotes appetite suppression by stimulating the nervous system, which in turn signals the body to break down fat cells for energy. Yerba mate tea also boasts a high concentration of mateine, a xanthine alkaloid similar to caffeine, which further contributes to its appetite-reducing properties. Moreover, this tea's ability to slow down the digestion process leads to a prolonged feeling of fullness, making it an effective tool for managing hunger.
In addition, yerba mate tea's bitter taste can reduce cravings, thus supporting weight loss efforts and contributing to appetite suppression.
Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in yerba mate tea that help with appetite suppression.
- Leaves: Contain compounds that help reduce appetite, making them the primary part used in medicinal tea for appetite suppression.
- Stems: Known to have appetite-suppressing qualities, stems are often included in making medicinal yerba mate tea.
- Branches: Rich in appetite-suppressing nutrients, making them a valuable addition to the tea for controlling hunger.
- Bark: Known to contain appetite-suppressing compounds, the bark is used in making medicinal yerba mate tea.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in yerba mate tea that aid with appetite suppression.
- Caffeine: Stimulates the central nervous system, reducing feelings of hunger and increasing metabolism.
- Theobromine: A mild stimulant that can help suppress appetite and enhance mood.
- Theophylline: A bronchodilator that can help suppress appetite and increase mental alertness.
- Chlorogenic acid: Slows the absorption of glucose in the digestive tract, helping to regulate blood sugar levels and reduce hunger.
- Rutin: A flavonoid that helps to strengthen blood vessels, improve circulation, and reduce inflammation, which can all contribute to a reduced appetite.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic yerba mate tea for appetite suppression.
- Measure: Pour 1 cup of cold filtered water into a kettle or pot.
- Heat: Bring the water to a boil, then let it cool down to 176-212°F (80-100°C).
- Prepare: Place 1-2 tablespoons of loose-leaf yerba mate leaves into a gourd or teapot.
- Steep: Pour the heated water over the yerba mate leaves and let it steep for 3-5 minutes.
- Serve: Enjoy your hot yerba mate tea, sipping it through a metal straw, if desired.
4. Rooibos
Rooibos tea, scientifically known as Aspalathus linearis, contains unique bioactive compounds that influence hormonal functions.
This caffeine-free tea reduces the levels of the hormone ghrelin, which triggers hunger, and increases leptin, the hormone that signals fullness. Furthermore, rooibos tea boasts a rich supply of antioxidants and aspalathin, which have demonstrated appetite-suppressing qualities in multiple scientific studies, alleviating the desire for excessive food intake. Drinking rooibos tea additionally contributes to maintaining proper hydration, which can sometimes be mistaken for hunger, aiding in overall appetite management.
Ultimately, rooibos tea emerges as a natural, effective tool for combating excessive hunger and assisting in weight management.
Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in rooibos tea that help with appetite suppression.
- Roots: The roots of Rooibos contain compounds that help in reducing hunger, making it an effective appetite suppressant.
- Leaves: The leaves of Rooibos are rich in antioxidants and have been traditionally used to brew tea that aids in curbing appetite.
- Flowers: Rooibos flowers are known for their potential in promoting weight loss by suppressing appetite, making them a suitable addition to medicinal teas.
- Seeds: The seeds of Rooibos contain essential oils that aid in reducing appetite, making them a valuable component for appetite-suppressant tea.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in rooibos tea that aid with appetite suppression.
- Aspalathin: A rare antioxidant that helps balance blood sugar levels, reducing cravings and promoting appetite suppression.
- Notoginsenoside R1: A powerful compound that aids in managing stress-induced eating by regulating the release of cortisol.
- Quercetin: A flavonoid with anti-inflammatory properties that helps reduce inflammation, thereby controlling appetite.
- Orientin: A potent antioxidant that supports gut health, which is essential for maintaining a healthy appetite.
- Isoorientin: A flavonoid that improves insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism, contributing to appetite control.
- Vitexin: A polyphenol that regulates metabolism, assisting in managing weight and promoting appetite suppression.
- Isovitexin: A flavonoid that helps reduce oxidative stress, contributing to a balanced appetite.
- Luteolin: A flavonoid that inhibits fat accumulation, promoting weight management and appetite control.
- Chrysoeriol: A flavonoid that enhances fat burning and metabolism, aiding in appetite regulation.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic rooibos tea for appetite suppression.
- Boil 1 cup of water to 212°F (100°C) for 1-2 minutes to reach optimal temperature.
- Add 1 teaspoon (2-3 grams) of loose-leaf rooibos tea or 1 rooibos tea bag to a teapot or mug.
- Pour the hot water over the rooibos tea in the teapot or mug.
- Steep the rooibos tea for 5-7 minutes to allow for optimal flavor and appetite-suppressing antioxidant release.
- Remove the tea bag or strain the loose-leaf tea before drinking to prevent over-steeping and bitterness.
5. Hibiscus
Hibiscus tea, derived from the calyces of the hibiscus flower, contains bioactive compounds that curb appetite.
This tea boasts a rich content of belly-filling fibers, providing a feeling of fullness and reducing the desire for extra calories. Additionally, hibiscus tea influences the hormones leptin and ghrelin, promoting satiety and minimizing hunger pangs. The tea's diuretic effect further aids in appetite control by reducing water retention, enhancing the sensation of a slimmer waistline.
Ultimately, hibiscus tea emerges as a natural and efficient ally for appetite suppression, facilitating weight management.
Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in hibiscus tea that help with appetite suppression.
- Flowers: Rich in flavonoids, hibiscus flowers help reduce hunger, making them ideal for appetite suppression.
- Leaves: High in hydroxycitric acid, hibiscus leaves contribute to suppression of appetite, making it a key ingredient in medicinal tea.
- Seeds: Packed with beneficial bioactive compounds, hibiscus seeds curb appetite, aiding in weight management.
- Rhyzomes: Known for their diuretic properties, hibiscus rhyzomes help reduce bloating, thereby controlling appetite.
- Bark: Containing essential nutrients and antioxidants, hibiscus bark helps manage food intake, enhancing weight loss efforts.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in hibiscus tea that aid with appetite suppression.
- Flavonoids: These antioxidant compounds help with appetite suppression by slowing the absorption of sugar into the bloodstream, which can help regulate hunger.
- Anthocyanins: These water-soluble pigments are known to have anti-obesity effects, in part by increasing feelings of fullness and reducing appetite.
- Proanthocyanidins: These polyphenolic compounds can help with weight loss by decreasing food intake, reducing body fat, and increasing fat oxidation.
- Organic acids: The organic acids in hibiscus tea, such as citric acid and malic acid, may help with weight management by increasing fat metabolism and reducing appetite.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic hibiscus tea for appetite suppression.
- Measure 2 tablespoons of dried hibiscus flowers and place them in a teapot or heat-resistant pitcher.
- Pour 4 cups of boiling water over the hibiscus flowers and let it steep for 10-15 minutes.
- Strain the tea into a cup, discarding the spent flowers.
- Optional: Add honey, lemon, or stevia to taste for sweetness.
- Drink the tea throughout the day, up to three times daily, 30 minutes before meals to help suppress appetite.
6. Peppermint
Peppermint tea aids appetite suppression due to its active compounds, specifically menthol and methyl salicylate.
These components stimulate the trigeminal nerve, which sends signals to the brain that create a sensation of fullness. Moreover, peppermint tea slows down gastric emptying, allowing individuals to feel satiated for extended periods. Additionally, this soothing beverage reduces bloating and improves digestion, further contributing to its appetite-suppressing effects.
Lastly, peppermint tea's cooling and refreshing sensation decreases cravings for sugary and fatty foods, making it an ideal choice for those seeking to control their appetite.
Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in peppermint tea that help with appetite suppression.
- Leaves: The leaves of the peppermint plant contain essential oils and antispasmodic properties that help in reducing appetite.
- Buds: The buds of the peppermint plant have high concentrations of menthol, which aids in suppressing appetite.
- Stems: The stems of the peppermint plant contain minimal essential oils compared to the leaves and buds, but they can still contribute to appetite suppression.
- Roots: While not as potent as the leaves, rhizomes, the underground stems of the peppermint plant, can contribute to the tea's effectiveness in appetite suppression.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in peppermint tea that aid with appetite suppression.
- Menthol: Acts as a natural anesthetic and suppresses appetite by blocking the detection of stomach hunger signals.
- Menthone: Stimulates the trigeminal nerve, which can help reduce food cravings and promote feelings of fullness.
- Limonene: Promotes weight loss by reducing appetite and increasing the breakdown of fat.
- Menthol acetate: Enhances satiety by slowing gastric emptying and prolonging the feeling of fullness.
- Rosmarinic acid: Inhibits the production of ghrelin, a hormone that stimulates appetite.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic peppermint tea for appetite suppression.
- Measure - Pour 8 ounces of fresh, cold water into a teapot or saucepan.
- Heat - Slowly bring the water to a boil, about 3-5 minutes.
- Steep - Place one peppermint tea bag or 1 tablespoon of loose peppermint leaves in a cup, then pour the hot water over it. Allow to steep for 5-7 minutes.
- Remove - Take out the tea bag or strain the loose leaves from the liquid.
- Serve - Drink the peppermint tea warm, up to three times a day, 30 minutes before meals for appetite suppression.
7. Ginger
Ginger tea assists with appetite suppression due to its active compounds, such as gingerols and shogaols, which are known to reduce feelings of hunger and increase satiety.
These compounds work by stimulating the release of digestive enzymes, improving gut motility, and promoting efficient nutrient absorption, ultimately leading to a decreased desire to eat. Furthermore, ginger tea has been shown to influence certain hormones, such as cholecystokinin (CCK), associated with appetite control, thus contributing to its appetite-suppressing effects. Moreover, ginger's thermogenic properties help increase caloric expenditure, making it an effective tool for weight management and appetite control.
Lastly, sipping ginger tea between meals not only provides hydration but also offers a flavorful, low-calorie alternative to snacking, reinforcing portion control and healthy eating habits.
Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in ginger tea that help with appetite suppression.
- Rhizomes: Ginger rhizomes are widely used to make medicinal tea due to their natural ability to reduce feelings of hunger and promote a feeling of fullness.
- Roots: Ginger roots are a popular choice for making appetite-suppressing tea as they contain active compounds that help control hunger.
- Leaves: In some cultures, ginger leaves are used in teas to help curb appetite, thanks to their high levels of beneficial bioactive compounds.
- Flowers: While less commonly used, ginger flowers can be used to make tea, providing small amounts of rosmarinic acid, which aids in weight management by promoting satiety.
- Seeds: Ginger seeds have been used in traditional medicines to help manage weight, and they can be used to make teas that promote appetite suppression.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in ginger tea that aid with appetite suppression.
- Gingerols: Gingerols are known to increase satiety and reduce appetite by slowing gastric emptying.
- Shogaols: Shogaols have been shown to reduce food intake by increasing fullness hormones and decreasing hunger hormones.
- Paradols: Paradols have been found to suppress appetite by increasing energy expenditure and reducing fat storage.
- Zingerone: Zingerone has been suggested to promote weight loss by decreasing fat mass and increasing metabolism.
- Gingerdiols: Gingerdiols have been linked to appetite suppression by reducing inflammation in the digestive tract.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginger tea for appetite suppression.
- Peel and grate 1 tablespoon of fresh ginger; place in teapot.
- Add 1 cup of boiling water to teapot, steep for 10 minutes.
- Stir in 1 teaspoon of honey and squeeze in 1/2 lemon; blend well.
- Strain tea into cup, discarding grated ginger.
- Sip and enjoy, drink up to 3 times a day before meals for appetite suppression.
8. Chamomile
Chamomile tea contains bioactive compounds, specifically apigenin and luteolin, which have appetite-suppressing properties.
These compounds interact with certain receptors in the brain that control hunger and satiety, promoting feelings of fullness. Moreover, chamomile tea stimulates digestion and nutrient absorption, which helps regulate appetite. Furthermore, this herbal tea has been shown to reduce stress and anxiety, often associated with overeating.
Therefore, drinking chamomile tea consistently contributes to appetite suppression by stimulating satiety, improving digestion, and alleviating stress-induced overeating.
Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in chamomile tea that help with appetite suppression.
- Flowers: The chamomile flowers contain flavonoids that possess appetite-suppressing properties.
- Leaves: The leaves of chamomile plants have hypocholesterolemic effects that help in suppressing appetite.
- Seeds: Chamomile seeds are rich in antioxidants and possess anti-obesity effects, making them useful for appetite suppression.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in chamomile tea that aid with appetite suppression.
- Apigenin: A flavonoid that binds to benzodiazepine receptors in the brain, potentially reducing anxiety and promoting satiety.
- Chamazulene: A volatile oil with anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract, thereby alleviating appetite.
- Bisabolol: A sesquiterpene alcohol with anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects that may help alleviate gastrointestinal discomfort and reduce appetite.
- Matricin: A precursor to chamazulene that has anti-inflammatory effects, potentially reducing inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract and decreasing appetite.
- Spiroether: A sesquiterpene lactone that has been shown to have appetite-suppressant effects in animal studies.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic chamomile tea for appetite suppression.
- Measure: Pour 8 ounces of fresh water into a teapot.
- Heat: Bring water to a boil, then let it cool for 2-3 minutes to reach a temperature of 200°F - 212°F.
- Steep: Add 1-2 teaspoons of dried chamomile flowers to an infuser and place it in the teapot; let it steep for 5-7 minutes.
- Strain: Remove the infuser and discard the chamomile flowers.
- Serve: Drink the chamomile tea warm or at room temperature, up to three times a day, 30 minutes before meals.
9. Licorice
Licorice tea contains a compound called glycyrrhizin, which has appetite-suppressing properties.
This compound impacts the hypothalamus, a part of the brain that regulates hunger and satiety. Glycyrrhizin slows down the breakdown of a hormone called cortisol, extending the feeling of fullness. As a result, consuming licorice tea can lead to reduced food intake and appetite.
Additionally, this natural beverage provides a flavorful alternative to high-calorie drinks, aiding in weight management efforts.
Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in licorice tea that help with appetite suppression.
- Roots: The roots of the licorice plant contain compounds that stimulate digestion and reduce appetite, making them an effective part for medicinal tea.
- Rhyzomes: The rhyzomes of the licorice plant have similar properties to the roots and are often used interchangeably in tea for appetite suppression.
- Leaves: The leaves of the licorice plant contain active ingredients that help to control hunger, making them a crucial component in medicinal tea.
- Seeds: The seeds of the licorice plant are rich in flavonoids that help to curb appetite and aid in weight management, making them a popular addition to medicinal tea.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in licorice tea that aid with appetite suppression.
- Glycyrrhizin: Acts as a natural sweetener and slows down digestion, promoting feelings of fullness.
- Liquiritigenin: Known to stimulate the release of satiety hormones, reducing appetite.
- isoliquiritigenin: Shown to aid in reducing body weight, possibly through appetite suppression.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice tea for appetite suppression.
- In a tea infuser or teapot, place 1 tablespoon of dried licorice root.
- Pour 8 ounces of boiling water over the licorice root and let it steep for 10-15 minutes.
- Remove the tea infuser or strain the tea to remove the licorice root.
- Let the tea cool down to a drinkable temperature.
- Drink 1-2 cups of licorice tea daily, before meals, to help suppress appetite.
10. Fenugreek
Fenugreek tea assists with appetite suppression due to its high fiber content, which promotes satiety by slowing down digestion and increasing the time it takes for the stomach to empty.
This herbal tea contains 4-hydroxyisoleucine, a compound that influences the release of certain hormones responsible for hunger and satiety signals in the body. Furthermore, fenugreek tea's bitter taste reduces cravings and minimizes the desire to consume high-calorie foods. Additionally, this tea's ability to regulate blood sugar levels contributes to a stable appetite, preventing spikes in hunger.
Lastly, fenugreek tea's natural compounds influence the brain's reward system, making unhealthy foods less appealing and supporting overall weight management goals.
Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in fenugreek tea that help with appetite suppression.
- Seeds: The seeds of the fenugreek plant are rich in fiber, which helps promote feelings of fullness and reduce appetite.
- Leaves: Fenugreek leaves contain bioactive compounds that help slow down gastric emptying, thus curbing appetite and promoting weight loss.
- Flowers: Fenugreek flowers are a natural source of diosgenin, a steroidal saponin that can help regulate appetite and promote weight management.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in fenugreek tea that aid with appetite suppression.
- Galactomannan: A water-soluble dietary fiber that promotes satiety by increasing feelings of fullness and reducing hunger.
- Diosgenin: A steroidal saponin that may aid in appetite suppression by slowing gastric emptying and increasing the release of satiety hormones.
- 4-Hydroxyisoleucine: An amino acid that can help regulate blood sugar levels, potentially reducing cravings and promoting appetite control.
- Trigonelline: An alkaloid that may contribute to appetite suppression by increasing insulin sensitivity and reducing food intake.
- Quercetin: A flavonoid with antioxidant properties that can help regulate metabolism and reduce inflammation, possibly supporting weight management and appetite control.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic fenugreek tea for appetite suppression.
- In a pot, combine 1 cup of water and 1 teaspoon of fenugreek seeds; bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Remove pot from heat, add 1 teaspoon of honey and 1/2 teaspoon of lemon juice, then stir well to combine.
- Cover pot and let tea steep for 5-10 minutes.
- Strain tea through a fine-mesh sieve into a cup, discarding solids.
- Serve tea warm, sipping slowly throughout the day as needed for appetite suppression.
What is appetite suppression and how can it affect your life?
Appetite suppression refers to the reduction of hunger or desire to eat.
This occurs when certain substances or medications interact with the brain's hunger-regulating system, signaling fullness and satisfaction. The impact on people's lives is significant, as appetite suppression aids in maintaining a caloric deficit necessary for weight loss.
Additionally, it can help manage overeating and promote healthier eating habits, ultimately improving overall well-being and reducing the risk of obesity-related health issues.
What other natural remedies help with appetite suppression?
Among the most commonly used and effective natural remedies for appetite suppression are fiber-rich foods, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
These foods promote satiety by slowing down digestion and increasing feelings of fullness. Additionally, protein-rich foods, such as lean meats, dairy products, and legumes, also aid in appetite control as they take longer to digest and help regulate blood sugar levels. Probiotics, found in fermented foods like yogurt, sauerkraut, and kimchi, can also contribute to appetite suppression by improving gut health and enhancing the gut-brain connection.
Incorporating these natural remedies into a balanced diet can help manage hunger and promote healthy weight loss.