Green Tea – The Star Herb
EGCG, the main active ingredient produced by green tea, is one of the most active antioxidants known in the plant kingdom. It has twice the antioxidant power of resveratrol, known from red wine. Additionally, according to Dr. Lester A. Mitscher of the University of Kansas, EGCG is nearly 100 times more effective than vitamin C and 25 times better than vitamin E in defending cells from DNA damage.
That’s just to start with what EGCG and its related tea polyphenols can do. Additional benefits of these phytochemicals include helping the liver boost proper fat metabolism, thus keeping unwanted belly fat in check. The polyphenols in green tea also benefit cardiovascular health, reduce the occurrence of different forms of cancer, aid digestion, and help normalize blood sugar.
Herbs that synergize for weight loss
While green tea is fabulous on its own, it works even more powerfully in formulas where it is mixed with additional herbs that can create synergy with it. Many herbs can enhance the weight loss effects of green tea. A short list of key examples includes the following:
Dandelion: Keeping the liver and kidneys working properly depends on detoxification. This is where the detoxifying effects of dandelion are especially important. These effects are behind the action of dandelion extracts that inhibit the formation and growth of fat cells, according to research by the IMDEA Food Institute in Madrid, Spain, in 2014.
Ginseng: In Asia, this is historically an all-time favorite tonic herb, known to help control blood sugar and decrease cravings for sweets. Both effects are crucial in reducing the fattening effects of sugar. Besides that, ginseng also reduces fatigue and increases overall physical and mental well-being.
Licorice: This herb contains antioxidant substances that are especially important in calming inflammation in the digestive system. It also promotes liver health, which is crucial for healthy fat metabolism.
Ginger: The calming effects of ginger root on digestion are widely known. This property is explained by the ability of ginger to stimulate stomach secretions, particularly the enzymes that help break down fat. Ginger has also been found to improve the bioavailability of other herbal ingredients in mixed formulas.
What other thing?
These are just a few of the various herbs that are useful for any weight management program. They are important for keeping your liver in good health, helping you lose weight and maintain your goal weight once you reach it. A superior formula should contain all of these herbs and up to a dozen more.