The Student Herbal Journal

Saturday, July 08, 2006

Bladderwrack is an excellent herb for speeding up the metabolism. It is chiefly used as the principle agent in ‘cures’ for obesity. The plant appears to raise the metabolic rate by increasing hormone production by the thyroid gland, but the increase may be limited to poorly functioning thyroids. In one clinical trial in Italy in 1976, patients taking Bladderwrack lost much more weight than the control group. It is also said to clean out the kidneys and to tone up the system. It is one of the most prolific sources of natural iodine and trace elements. It is also used for rheumatism. Due to the iodine content, Bladderwrack is taken for underactive thyroid glands and as an antigoiter remedy.
It is #1 - Safe, #2 - Can be used regularly in a tea up to 3 cups a day, #3 available in tablet form. Try to get pharmaceutical grade if you possibly can, or go to a health food store (NOT a GNC) to find them. If you love tea, this is a great way to add to your weight loss regimen.


Some herbs that are helpful with weight loss/control are:

Aloe vera juice to improve digestion and cleanse the digestive tract
Astragalus to increase energy and improve nutrient absorption
Dandelion for diuretic properties to offset any water retention
Butcher's broom, cardamom, cayenne, cinnamon, ginger and green tea to
improve digestion and aid in the metabolism of fat
Bladderwrack, borage seed, hawthorn berry, licorice root and sarsaparilla to
stimulate the adrenal glands and improve thyroid function
Ephedra, Guarana, and kola nut are appetite suppressants
Fennel removes mucus and fat from the intestinal tract and is a natural
appetite suppressant
Fenugreek is useful for dissolving fat within the liver
Siberian ginseng aids in moving fluids and nutrients throughout the body and
reduces the stress of adjusting to new eating habits.