First, almost anything can be a herbal diet pill. Most drugs have been derived from plants so the definition of herbs is murky. Nevertheless, according the FDA, they are not classified as drugs and so they do not undergo the strict standard tests that drugs go through but it is wise not to forget that they can be just as dangerous.

In fact, it is only a matter of time before the herbal pills are termed drugs. Usually this happens after the pills are on the market for awhile. If you look around on the internet you will see a number of sites selling their herbal pills and advertising their product with a message that may be interpreted as "buy it now before the FDA bans it".

These pills usually end up being banned completely or available only through prescription. Nevertheless, you must remember that the FDA was set up for the interests of the public and it is questionable whether this type product is good for you if it uses messages like that.

I have had my encounter with herbal diet pills before. In college I took some pills that claimed to be natural, safe and "ephedra" free. It was not a good experience. I felt restless, I couldn't eat for days and I had insomnia. All of those affects, in my opinion, cannot be good for the body. Later I found out that the FDA had banned the pills.

So don't be misguided by the word "herbal" it doesn't mean safe. If the FDA has approved it through their testing process it's a much better choice. Unfortunately the words natural and herbal are being used these days to evoke the trust of consumers, don't fall for it.