Last updated: Apr 12, 2024
10 best herbal teas for weight loss
Several herbal teas have been found to be beneficial for weight loss.
Peppermint tea, for instance, boosts metabolism and suppresses appetite, leading to a reduction in calorie intake. Gymnema tea, on the other hand, reduces sugar cravings and increases feelings of fullness, making it easier to stick to a diet. Additionally, dandelion tea is a natural diuretic, helping to shed excess water weight, while green tea increases fat burning and enhances exercise performance.
By incorporating these teas into a healthy lifestyle, individuals can experience enhanced weight loss results.
1. Green Tea
Green tea assists with weight loss due to its natural contents of caffeine and EGCG, a type of catechin.
These compounds boost metabolism, causing the body to burn more calories. Furthermore, green tea inhibits the enzyme that breaks down the hormone norepinephrine, which signals fat cells to break down fat.
As a result, fat oxidation increases, leading to a higher rate of fat burn. Additionally, green tea increases the levels of hormones that signal fullness to the brain, reducing overall food intake.
Therefore, green tea's natural properties promote weight loss by increasing calorie burn and reducing food intake.
Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in green tea tea that help with weight loss.
- Leaves: Contain high levels of catechins, a type of antioxidant that helps boost metabolism and increase fat burning.
- Buds: Rich in antioxidants and have been shown to boost weight loss by increasing fat oxidation and improving insulin sensitivity.
- Stems: Contain a variety of beneficial compounds, including caffeine and catechins, which work together to increase energy expenditure and support weight loss.
- Seeds: High in fiber, healthy fats, and antioxidants, seeds from the green tea plant can help promote feelings of fullness, reduce appetite, and support overall weight management.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in green tea tea that aid with weight loss.
- Caffeine: Acts as a stimulant and helps to increase metabolism, aiding in weight loss.
- Catechins: Antioxidants that help to increase fat oxidation and boost weight loss.
- Epigallocatechin Gallate: A type of catechin that helps to increase fat oxidation and caloric expenditure, promoting weight loss.
- Theanine: Amino acid that helps to improve metabolic rate and promote weight loss.
- L-Theanine: A type of theanine that helps to increase fat oxidation and reduce body weight.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic green tea tea for weight loss.
- Boil 8 ounces of water and let it cool to 175-185 degrees Fahrenheit, which takes about 5-10 minutes.
- Place 1 teaspoon of high-quality green tea leaves in a tea infuser or teapot.
- Pour the hot water over the tea leaves and let it steep for 2-3 minutes for a balanced flavor and optimal health benefits.
- Remove the tea leaves and enjoy the green tea without added sugar or milk.
- Drink 2-3 cups of green tea daily, ideally 30 minutes before meals, for best weight loss results.
2. Oolong
Oolong tea assists with weight loss due to its unique polyphenol content, which includes epigallocatechin gallate, epicatechin gallate, and theaflavins.
These polyphenols boost fat oxidation and increase metabolism, helping the body burn up to 12% more energy. Additionally, oolong tea prevents the absorption of dietary fats and enhances the function of enzymes responsible for breaking down fats. Furthermore, oolong's caffeine content supports weight loss by promoting lipolysis or the release of fat from fat cells, while its ability to balance blood sugar levels aids in controlling cravings.
Lastly, consistent consumption of oolong tea encourages overall gut health, facilitating a favorable environment for weight management and a healthy metabolism.
Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in oolong tea that help with weight loss.
- Leaves: The leaves of the oolong plant contain high levels of polyphenols that stimulate fat oxidation and enhance weight loss.
- Buds: Rich in catechins, the buds of the oolong plant help increase metabolism and reduce abdominal fat.
- Stems: Oolong stems contain unique compounds that regulate the absorption of dietary fat, supporting weight loss efforts.
- Flowers: The fragrant flowers of the oolong plant provide antioxidants that improve digestion and metabolic function, aiding weight management.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in oolong tea that aid with weight loss.
- Caffeine: Acts as a stimulant and increases metabolism, helping to burn more calories.
- EGCG: Boosts fat oxidation and modulates the generation of new fat cells.
- Theasinensin: Enhances weight loss by inhibiting the differentiation of fat cells.
- Theanine: Helps reduce stress and anxiety, which can lead to emotional eating and weight gain.
- Thearubigins: Inhibit digestive enzymes, slowing down the absorption of fat and glucose, and promoting weight loss.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic oolong tea for weight loss.
- Measure: Boil 1 cup of filtered water and let it cool down to 195-205°F (90-96°C).
- Scoop: Take 1 teaspoon (2-3 grams) of high-quality oolong tea leaves.
- Steep: Steep the tea leaves in the hot water for 3-5 minutes to extract the healthy compounds.
- Strain: Strain out the tea leaves, discarding them, and pour the tea into a cup.
- Consume: Drink the oolong tea regularly, 2-3 times a day, 30 minutes before meals to aid weight loss.
3. Yerba Mate
Yerba mate tea assists with weight loss due to its ability to increase metabolism and fat oxidation.
This herbal tea contains high levels of antioxidants and caffeine, which work together to boost energy expenditure and enhance stamina. Moreover, yerba mate tea promotes satiety by delaying gastric emptying, reducing overall food intake. Its appetite-suppressing quality helps control snacking and prevents overeating.
Additionally, studies show that regular consumption of yerba mate tea can lead to a significant reduction in body fat and waist circumference.
Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in yerba mate tea that help with weight loss.
- Leaves: Rich in caffeine and antioxidants, leaves promote weight loss by increasing metabolism and energy expenditure.
- Stems: Contain chlorogenic acid which helps reduce body weight by inhibiting fat absorption and glucose production.
- Seeds: High in fiber, seeds aid in digestion, suppress appetite, and contribute to gradual weight loss.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in yerba mate tea that aid with weight loss.
- Caffeine: Acts as a stimulant to the central nervous system, increasing metabolism and promoting weight loss.
- Theobromine: A mild stimulant that increases heart rate and helps burn calories.
- Theophylline: A bronchodilator that can help with weight loss by increasing respiratory rate and calorie expenditure.
- Chlorogenic acid: Slows the absorption of glucose in the digestive system, reducing the impact of carbohydrates on blood sugar levels and promoting weight loss.
- Rutin: A flavonoid that strengthens capillary walls, improves circulation and metabolism, and helps with weight loss.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic yerba mate tea for weight loss.
- Measure out 1-2 teaspoons of loose leaf yerba mate per 8 ounces of water.
- Place the mate in a French press, tea infuser, or heat-resistant pitcher.
- Heat water to 175-185°F and pour it over the mate, then steep for 5-7 minutes.
- Remove the mate to prevent bitter flavors from developing.
- Drink the tea regularly, several times a day, as part of a balanced diet and exercise program.
4. Guar Gum
Guar gum, a fiber sourced from the guar bean, forms a gel in the stomach when combined with fluid, promoting feelings of fullness and reducing appetite.
This gel also delays stomach emptying, causing a prolonged feeling of satiety and reducing the desire to eat. Moreover, guar gum inhibits the enzymes responsible for digesting dietary fats, allowing the body to absorb fewer fats and calories. Additionally, guar gum ferments in the gut, producing short-chain fatty acids that enhance metabolism and aid in weight loss.
Therefore, guar gum tea facilitates weight loss by promoting satiety, reducing fat absorption, and stimulating fat burning.
Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in guar gum tea that help with weight loss.
- Seeds: Rich in soluble fiber, guar gum seeds swell in the stomach, promoting feelings of fullness and aiding in weight loss.
- Bark: Containing high levels of polyphenols, guar gum bark helps reduce appetite and slows down the absorption of glucose, aiding in weight management.
- Leaves: Guar gum leaves are a natural source of dietary fiber, supporting healthy digestion and weight loss by reducing hunger and calorie intake.
- Rhyzomes: Guar gum rhyzomes are known to slow stomach emptying, leading to a decrease in appetite and promoting weight loss.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in guar gum tea that aid with weight loss.
- Fiber: Guar gum is a rich source of soluble fiber, which can help with weight loss by slowing down the digestion process, increasing feelings of fullness, and reducing overall calorie intake.
- Galactomannan: This water-soluble polysaccharide found in guar gum can help with weight loss by forming a gel in the stomach, which can slow down the rate of glucose absorption and reduce appetite.
- Polyphenols: Guar gum contains polyphenols, which have been shown to have potential anti-obesity effects by increasing fat oxidation, reducing lipid absorption, and regulating lipid metabolism.
- Saponins: Saponins in guar gum may contribute to weight loss by inhibiting the absorption of dietary fat, suppressing appetite, and increasing the excretion of bile acids.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic guar gum tea for weight loss.
- In a pot, combine 1 cup of water and 1 teaspoon of guar gum, then stir thoroughly for 1 minute.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring continuously for 3-5 minutes until the guar gum fully dissolves.
- Remove from heat, then add a squeeze of lemon juice and honey (to taste), stirring until well combined.
- Let the tea cool down to a drinkable temperature, about 10 minutes.
- Strain the tea through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any undissolved guar gum, then serve immediately.
5. Bitterghaap
Bitterghaap tea's natural ingredients, including green tea and garcinia cambogia, contain compounds that stimulate metabolism and hinder fat production, directly supporting weight loss.
This tea's catechins, powerful antioxidants, increase the rate of calorie burning, enhancing weight loss results. Additionally, Bitterghaap tea's bitter properties come from herbs like gymnema sylvestre, which triggers receptors in the mouth and gut to reduce appetite and food intake, aiding in weight reduction. Furthermore, this tea's caffeine content gives a natural energy boost, encouraging physical activity that promotes calorie expenditure and healthy weight management.
Altogether, Bitterghaap tea's scientifically-backed ingredients create a synergistic effect to boost metabolism, reduce appetite, increase energy, and decrease fat accumulation, resulting in effective and consistent weight loss.
Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in bitterghaap tea that help with weight loss.
- Leaves: Rich in antioxidants, the leaves of bitterghaap aid in boosting metabolism and promoting fat oxidation, facilitating weight loss.
- Stems: Containing high levels of vitamins and minerals, the stems help curb appetite and stimulate calorie-burning, resulting in effective weight loss.
- Flowers: Packed with essential oils, the flowers of bitterghaap improve digestion and speed up the breakdown of fats, reducing overall body weight.
- Seeds: Acting as a natural diuretic, the seeds of bitterghaap eliminate excess fluids and toxins, preventing water retention and boosting weight loss results.
- Bark: Abundant in antioxidants, the bark of bitterghaap regulates blood sugar levels and reduces cravings, aiding in sustained weight loss over time.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in bitterghaap tea that aid with weight loss.
- Caffeine: Stimulates metabolism, increasing the body's ability to burn fat.
- Theobromine: Dilates blood vessels, improving circulation and aiding in weight loss.
- Theophylline: Relaxes bronchial smooth muscles, reducing inflammation and promoting weight loss.
- Epicatechin: A type of flavonoid that helps to burn fat and increase weight loss.
- Chlorogenic acid: Slows the absorption of glucose in the digestive tract, reducing blood sugar levels and promoting weight loss.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic bitterghaap tea for weight loss.
- In a mortar, grind 1 teaspoon of dried bitterleaf, 1 teaspoon of dried ginger, and 1 teaspoon of dried cinnamon into a fine powder, taking 5 minutes.
- Bring 2 cups of water to a boil in a teapot, then add the ground mixture, letting it simmer for 10 minutes.
- Remove the teapot from heat, then add 1 teaspoon of honey and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, stirring until fully combined.
- Strain the tea into 2 cups, discarding the solid remnants, and allow it to cool for 5 minutes.
- Serve the bitterghaap tea, consuming it twice a day for optimal weight loss results.
6. Ginger
Ginger tea assists with weight loss due to its thermogenic properties, which warm the body and increase metabolic rate.
This rise in metabolism leads to more calories burned, contributing to overall weight loss. Moreover, ginger tea suppresses appetite by making individuals feel full longer, reducing the overall caloric intake. Additionally, ginger tea boosts digestion, allowing the body to process food more efficiently and extract necessary nutrients.
Furthermore, ginger tea's anti-inflammatory properties can alleviate any inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract, enhancing the absorption of essential nutrients and promoting a healthy weight.
Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in ginger tea that help with weight loss.
- Rhizomes: The underground stem of ginger is used to make medicinal tea for weight loss because it contains gingerols and shogaols, compounds known to boost metabolism and reduce inflammation.
- Leaves: Ginger leaves are used in medicinal tea for weight loss due to their high antioxidant content, which helps support a healthy metabolism and aid in digestion.
- Flowers: Ginger flowers are used in medicinal tea for weight loss as they contain anti-inflammatory compounds that can help reduce bloating and improve digestion.
- Seeds: Ginger seeds are used in medicinal tea for weight loss due to their ability to regulate blood sugar levels, which can help control cravings and support weight loss.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in ginger tea that aid with weight loss.
- Gingerols: Gingerols are known to boost metabolism and reduce fat absorption, aiding in weight loss.
- Shogaols: Shogaols have thermogenic properties, increasing fat burning and promoting weight loss.
- Paradols: Paradols can inhibit the enrichment of fatty tissues, helping to manage weight.
- Zingerone: Zingerone stimulates digestion and suppresses appetite, supporting weight loss efforts.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ginger tea for weight loss.
- Peel and thinly slice 1 inch of fresh ginger, then place in a pot and pour 4 cups of water.
- Bring the water to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes.
- Remove the pot from heat, add 1 teaspoon of honey and 1 teaspoon of lemon juice, then stir well.
- Strain the tea into a cup, discarding the ginger pieces.
- Consume the tea while warm, 2-3 times a day for effective weight loss.
7. Licorice
Licorice tea aids weight loss by reducing body fat and controlling obesity.
This tea achieves this by suppressing appetite and preventing overeating, as it contains glycyrrhizic acid. Moreover, licorice tea stimulates energy expenditure and metabolism, promoting weight loss. Additionally, this tea boasts diuretic properties, eliminating water retention and bloating.
Finally, licorice tea enhances digestion, ensuring proper nutrient absorption and efficient waste elimination, supporting overall weight management.
Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in licorice tea that help with weight loss.
- Roots: The roots of the licorice plant contain compounds that help in boosting metabolism and reducing body fat, making it suitable for weight loss.
- Rhyzomes: The rhyzomes of the licorice plant are rich in substances that regulate fluid balance and aid in shedding excess weight.
- Leaves: The leaves of the licorice plant have mild diuretic properties, helping in the elimination of retained water and supporting weight loss.
- Seeds: The seeds of the licorice plant contain essential oils that stimulate digestion and contribute to weight management.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in licorice tea that aid with weight loss.
- Glycyrrhizin: Acts as a natural sweetener while also promoting weight loss by boosting metabolism and aiding in the breakdown of fat.
- Liquiritigenin: Helps in reducing body fat by inhibiting the differentiation of fat cells.
- Glabridin: Assists in weight loss by reducing inflammation, which can contribute to obesity, and by enhancing the breakdown of fats.
- Liquiritin: Supports weight loss by improving liver function and increasing the metabolism of fats.
- Isoliquiritigenin: Promotes weight loss by inhibiting the production of fatty acids and reducing fat storage.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic licorice tea for weight loss.
- In a pot, boil 8 ounces of water for 3-5 minutes.
- Add 1 teaspoon of dried licorice root to the boiling water, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes.
- Strain the tea to remove the licorice root, then let it cool for a few minutes.
- Optional: Add a natural sweetener, like raw honey or stevia, to taste.
- Drink the tea 2-3 times a day, 30 minutes before meals, for best results in weight loss.
8. Dandelion
Dandelion tea promotes weight loss due to its diuretic properties, which stimulate the production of urine and increase the elimination of fluids and toxins from the body.
This tea also has a laxative effect, encouraging bowel regularity and supporting the digestive system, which aids in the breakdown and elimination of fats. Furthermore, dandelion tea contains high levels of antioxidants that help improve metabolic function, enhancing the body's ability to burn calories efficiently. Drinking dandelion tea additionally provides a sense of satiety or fullness, reducing the likelihood of overeating and promoting healthier food choices.
Lastly, the tea's low-calorie content contributes to weight loss by minimizing overall caloric intake.
Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in dandelion tea that help with weight loss.
- Roots: Dandelion roots are rich in beneficial compounds that support digestion and liver function, helping the body eliminate waste and burn fat more efficiently.
- Leaves: The leaves of dandelions act as a natural diuretic, increasing urination and removing excess fluids and toxins that can hinder weight loss.
- Flowers: Dandelion flowers contain bioactive compounds that stimulate metabolism and aid in reducing body fat, making them a valuable addition to weight loss teas.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in dandelion tea that aid with weight loss.
- Chicoric acid: Acts as a natural diuretic, helping to reduce water retention and bloating.
- Taraxacin: Stimulates the production of bile by the liver, aiding in the digestion of fats and promoting weight loss.
- Inulin: Acts as a prebiotic, promoting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria that can help with weight management.
- Caffeic acid: A natural antioxidant that can increase metabolism and help burn fat.
- Luteolin: Has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation caused by obesity and improve insulin sensitivity.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dandelion tea for weight loss.
- Gather 2-3 dandelion heads and carefully remove the yellow petals, discarding the green base.
- Rinse the petals thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or bugs.
- Boil 2 cups of water in a pot, then add the dandelion petals and reduce heat to a simmer for 5-7 minutes.
- Strain the tea into a cup, discarding the petals, and let it cool down for 2-3 minutes.
- Drink the tea 1-2 times a day, preferably before meals, for a natural weight loss aid.
9. Turmeric
Turmeric tea assists with weight loss due to its active ingredient, curcumin, which reduces the formation of fat tissue and inhibits the growth of fat cells.
This herbal beverage also boasts anti-inflammatory properties that help regulate metabolic disorders, a common obstacle in weight loss. Furthermore, turmeric tea aids in digestion by increasing bile production in the stomach, promoting the breakdown of fats and facilitating weight management. Additionally, curcumin in turmeric tea helps improve insulin sensitivity, contributing to the regulation of body weight.
Lastly, this tea's antioxidant properties aid the body in detoxification, further enhancing its capacity to maintain a healthy weight.
Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in turmeric tea that help with weight loss.
- Rhizomes: These underground stems contain curcumin, a compound with anti-inflammatory properties that can help increase metabolism and promote weight loss.
- Roots: The roots of the turmeric plant are often used to make medicinal teas due to their high concentrations of bioactive compounds that aid in weight management.
- Leaves: Rich in antioxidants, turmeric leaves can help improve digestion and aid in fat loss when consumed as a tea.
- Flowers: While less commonly used, turmeric flowers contain essential oils that can support gut health, contributing to overall weight loss.
- Seeds: Although not typically used in teas, turmeric seeds possess nutrients that may help regulate metabolism and support weight loss efforts.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in turmeric tea that aid with weight loss.
- Curcumin: The main active ingredient in turmeric, which has been shown to increase fat burning and reduce fat tissue growth.
- Essential oils: Contain aromatic compounds that can boost metabolism and help with weight loss.
- Bisdemethoxycurcumin: A compound in turmeric that can inhibit the growth of fat cells.
- Demethoxycurcumin: A curcumin derivative that can help prevent the differentiation of fat cells.
- Curcuminoids: A group of antioxidants that can reduce inflammation and improve insulin sensitivity, both of which are important for weight management.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic turmeric tea for weight loss.
- In a saucepan, combine 4 cups of water and 1 teaspoon of ground turmeric; bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 10 minutes to allow turmeric to infuse.
- Strain the tea into a cup, discarding the turmeric solids.
- Stir in 1 teaspoon of honey and 1/2 teaspoon of lemon juice for flavor and added health benefits.
- Serve immediately and enjoy up to 3 cups daily as part of a balanced weight loss plan.
10. Cinnamon
Cinnamon tea aids weight loss by boosting metabolism.
This spice increases body heat, raising the rate at which calories burn. Additionally, cinnamon regulates blood sugar, reducing cravings and promoting portion control. Furthermore, it contains antioxidants that aid digestion, maximizing nutrient absorption and optimizing weight loss.
Lastly, substituting cinnamon tea for high-calorie beverages ensures calorie intake reduction, contributing to effective weight loss.
Right below you will find a list of the most important parts in cinnamon tea that help with weight loss.
- Bark: The bark of the cinnamon tree is used in medicinal tea for weight loss due to its high concentration of type II cinnamon polyphenols which are beneficial for metabolic health.
- Stems: The stems of the cinnamon plant are a rich source of antioxidants, making them an ideal addition to tea for weight loss and detoxification.
- Leaves: The leaves of the cinnamon plant contain several beneficial compounds, including cinnamaldehyde, which has been shown to increase metabolism and aid in weight loss.
- Seeds: Cinnamon seeds are packed with essential oils that aid in digestion and speed up the metabolism, making them an excellent addition to any weight loss tea.
The list below shows the primary active constituents in cinnamon tea that aid with weight loss.
- Cinnamaldehyde: This compound found in cinnamon helps with weight loss by increasing lipolysis (breakdown of fats) and thermogenesis (generation of heat in the body, which boosts metabolism).
- Eugenol: This antioxidant in cinnamon can help reduce inflammation, which plays a role in obesity. Additionally, eugenol may help prevent the accumulation of fat in the body.
- Methylhydroxychalcone: This polyphenol in cinnamon is known to improve insulin sensitivity, which can help regulate blood sugar levels and reduce body fat.
- Epicatechin: A flavonoid in cinnamon, epicatechin can help increase fat oxidation, reduce weight gain and improve metabolic parameters in patients with metabolic syndrome.
- Hydroxycinnamaldehyde: This compound in cinnamon has been shown to have anti-obesity effects by reducing lipid accumulation and increasing fat oxidation.
- Procyanidins: These are a type of polyphenol present in cinnamon that can help decrease fatty acid synthesis and improve metabolic function.
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic cinnamon tea for weight loss.
- In a small pot, boil 1 cup of water for 3-5 minutes.
- Add 1 cinnamon stick or 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon to the boiling water.
- Allow the mixture to steep for 10-15 minutes.
- Strain the liquid to remove the cinnamon pieces.
- Drink the cinnamon tea up to three times a day, preferably before meals, for best results.
What is weight loss and how can it affect your life?
Weight loss is a deliberate reduction in body mass, typically achieved through a combination of balanced nutrition and regular exercise.
This process impacts people's lives by enhancing overall health, increasing energy levels, and reducing the risk of various medical conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and certain types of cancer.
Furthermore, weight loss often leads to improvements in self-confidence and mental well-being, enabling individuals to engage more actively in social situations and daily activities.
What other natural remedies help with weight loss?
Among the most common and effective natural remedies for weight loss are apple cider vinegar, fiber-rich foods, and regular exercise.
Apple cider vinegar has been shown to increase feelings of fullness and reduce appetite, leading to a natural reduction in calorie intake. Fiber-rich foods, such as whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and legumes, promote healthy digestion and help regulate blood sugar levels, both of which support weight management. Regular exercise, including both cardio and strength training, is crucial for burning calories and building lean muscle, which boosts metabolism and supports long-term weight loss.
These natural remedies, when used consistently and as part of a balanced lifestyle, offer a safe and effective alternative to fad diets and weight loss supplements.