Aloe Vera (also known as aloe barbadensis, aloe)

While aloe vera was traditionally used for healing wounds, oral forms of aloe vera are now often added to herbal products for weight loss. The function of oral aloe vera is that it produces strong bowel movement reaction in the body, thus aiding in digestion as well. The indigested food is removed from the body at a faster rate, thus helping in keeping the body "clean", and aiding slightly in weight loss. However, the side effects of aloe vera if ingested orally, include diarrhea, abdominal cramping, disturbances in the electrolyte balance of the body often leading to severely reduced levels of potassium in the body. Overall, there is no clinical evidence proving that aloe vera can cause long-term weight loss.

Glucomannan (also known as Amorphophallus konja)

Glucomannan functions by hindering the process of glucose (sugar) absorption from the intestines. This creates a feeling of fullness in the individual, thus reducing the intake of food. Used as a weight loss product, Like acai pure berry and glucomannan has been effective in reducing significant amount of weight. Side effects of glucomannan include esophageal and gastrointestinal obstruction. Glucomannan is a banned product and should not be consumed.

Dandelion (also known as Taraxacum officinale)

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Dandelion is a natural diuretic and is effective in weight loss as it decreases the level of water in the body. However, one needs to drink plenty of water if taking this herb as the product may lead to severe dehydration as well. While dandelion does cause significant amount of weight loss, it may also cause allergic reactions in the body, and in rare cases, it may also lead to cancer.

St. John's Wort (also known as Hypercium perforatum)

Traditionally used as an anti-depressant, this herb has been proven to be effective for weight loss in the short term. However, long term usage of the herb is highly inadvisable and it is banned in several countries.

While herbal weight loss remedies may bring about some amount of weight loss, they are usually ineffective in the longer term. There are many herbs used in such remedies which are potentially dangerous and lead to fatal reactions. In most cases, there is also no clinical evidence regarding the safety of these herbal products. Therefore, it is best to avoid such remedies and concentrate instead on leading a healthy lifestyle by eating healthily and exercising regularly.

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