Avoid Over-the-Counter Chinese Herb Weight Loss Supplement Risks

Aug 12, 2010
Dawn M. Smith

Choosing the Right Chinese Herbal Supplements - Li Ung Bing

Traditional Chinese medicine can be safe and effective, but some OTC herbal supplements, especially those to help with losing weight, must be used carefully

People often turn to traditional Chinese medicine as an alternative medicine source but care should be taken when using over the counter TCM formulas. Some of these herbal supplements, particularly those used in weight loss systems, have been found to contain herbs which should not be used long term, or ingredients which are now understood to be detrimental to health.

The best option is to work closely with a traditional Chinese herbal practitioner to ensure the quality of the herbs and the appropriateness of the product being used. If that is not possible, it is important to know how to determine herbal quality.

How Traditional Chinese Weight Loss Systems Work

In TCM, weight loss systems focus on dietary and lifestyle changes first, then use herbal formulas to bring the body into balance, which may improve the effectiveness of the weight loss program. The Chinese Materia Medica does not have any herbs listed specifically for weight loss. Rather, based on individual characteristics, formulas are designed to help improve the individual’s metabolism.

Dangers of Improper Use of Traditional Chinese Medicine for Weight Loss

In the early 1990s more than 100 people in European weight loss programs suffered renal failure after ingesting what was termed a Chinese weight loss remedy. The problem was attributed to the aristolochic acid in Guang fang ji (Aristolichia fangchi). Guang fang ji is not, however, used by traditional Chinese herbal practitioners for weight management and the TCM Materia Medica specifically states that it should not be used long term.

Another TCM herb, Ma huang (Ephedra sinica), has also been found in weight loss supplements. Side effects of this herb include hypertension, heart attack and stroke. Ma huang was traditionally used in TCM for some respiratory problems, not weight loss. It was never used long–term, even when it was an appropriate herb for the individual situation.

Products with aristolochic acids and ephedra are now banned in many countries and most traditional Chinese herbal formula manufacturers in the US, Europe and Taiwan test their products regularly for banned substances, as well as other contaminants. This is not always the case in China, so purchasing over the counter herbal supplements which originate in China is risky, doubly so if the label does not include an English translation of the scientific names of the herbs used. Some common Chinese herb names may be used for more than one plant.

Choosing Safe Chinese Herbal Supplements

So how can a person take advantage of the potential value of traditional Chinese medicine for weight loss and improved health? First, it is important to understand the theory behind TCM, which is very different from the western approach to health. Ideally, finding a good Chinese medicine practitioner would be the next step. If that is not possible it, the next best thing is to find a good source of herbal supplements.

Look for Chinese herbal products with a good manufacturing process (GMP) seal, which ensures a certain level of quality control. The label should also state that the product has been tested for pesticides and other chemicals and include the complete scientific name of each ingredient. Most importantly, a small test dose of the formula should be taken. If there is any adverse reaction or even mild discomfort, this product is not the right one for the individual and should be discontinued .

Traditional Chinese medicine has been used for thousands of years and recent research shown the value of many Chinese herbs in health care. But the safe use of these herbal supplements requires an understanding of this ancient health care system and careful selection of appropriate herbs which have been properly processed.