The problem with the recent popularity in herbal weight loss products is the number of them that manufacturers are producing just makes it difficult for people to decide which ones they really need. Most of these have become very popular and their attributes well documented but if you are still unsure, a little information is provided in this article. The way this works is by telling the brain of the user that they are not hungry and has helped local populations when the pangs of hunger were upon them.

Hoodia Gordonni is one of the newest herbal weight control supplements and is a cactus found mostly in Africa, touted as an effective appetite suppressant. While it has other attributes, it is how it tricks the mind into believing it does not need anything to eat that is the real reason it is used; something people in Africa have know for many years.

Dandelion is another diuretic (it makes you urinate more frequently) and while side effects are relatively harmless, allergic reactions have been reported. Of course rapid water loss will result in body weight loss but for this very reason it can only be used on the short term unless fluid retention is the problem.

Many natural weight loss products contain laxatives and cascara is one of those which is a natural aid to purge the body of toxins and waste. Just because it is marketed as an herbal weight control supplement doesn't make it any better and its overuse can cause depletion in vital nutrients.

Cascara is a laxative used in many weight loss supplements but any laxative will help a person lose weight just like any other form of 'purging' the body of waste and toxins. However, any form of laxative, herbal or otherwise should be used with caution as these products also remove healthy bacteria and essential nutrients when used regularly.

While hundreds often thousands of dollars are spent annually by Americans on herbal and natural products to help control their weight, much more long term research needs to be carried out to assess just how effective these supplements really are. Unfortunately the likes of Hoodia is rare and now protected so if you are fortunate enough to find a reputable dealer you may have to spend around fifty dollars a month to use this and many people believe that natural weight loss supplements are more about ensuring your wallet loses weight.

The real truth is that herbal weight loss supplements do have their place but they should not be relied upon to control weight on their own but should be part of a regime which promotes healthy eating and exercise.