1. Fenugreek

Fenugreek is a well-known household spice from a legume plant — the Trigonella foenum-graecum.

Studies have shown that this legume may effectively control appetite and reduce food intake to promote weight loss.

A study involving 18 subjects showed that a daily supplement of 8g of fenugreek fiber increased the feelings of satiety and reduced food intake and hunger (1).

2. Cayenne pepper

Cayenne pepper is a kind of chili pepper. It introduces a spicy flavor to many dishes.

Cayenne pepper contains capsaicin, which is responsible for the signature heat and numerous health benefits of cayenne pepper.

Some studies have shown that capsaicin enhances metabolism slightly, thus increasing the number of calories you burn during the day (2) (3), .

Capsaicin may reduce hunger to boost weight loss.

A study found that intake of capsaicin capsules promoted satiety and decreased total calorie intake (4).

3. Ginger

Ginger is made from the rhizome of Zingiber officinale.

Ginger is often used as a natural remedy for several ailments. According to some studies, ginger can also promote weight loss.

A review of over 14 human studies revealed that ginger supplementation caused a significant decrease in both belly fat and body weight (5).

In another review of over 27 human, test-tube, and animal studies, it was found that ginger could improve weight loss by enhancing fat burning and metabolism while also decreasing appetite and fat absorption (6).

4. Ginseng

The Ginseng plant has health-promoting properties. Its health-promoting features are considered classified as a staple in Chinese traditional medicine.

There are different categories of ginseng, including American, Chinese, and Korean ginseng. However, it is essential to note that all three belong to the same genus.

Several studies have reported that the ginseng plant can aid fat burning.

A recent study found that an 8-week course of Korean ginseng resulted in significant body weight reductions and altered gut microbiota composition (7).

Also, another study showed that ginseng was very effective against obesity. In the study, ginseng was found to alter the formation of fat and delay the absorption of fat by the intestine (8).

There is a need for more large-scale, high-quality studies to efficiently examine the impact of ginseng on weight loss in humans.

5. Turmeric

Turmeric is a unique flavor, medicinal properties, and color.

Most health benefits of turmeric are attributed to curcumin. Curcumin is the active component of turmeric. Many studies have been carried out on the health benefits of curcumin, including its effects on weight loss and inflammation.

A study involving over 44 overweight people found that taking curcumin twice daily for 12 weeks significantly reduced body fat and body weight by blocking fat synthesis (9).

However, it is essential to note that the curcumin in these studies is concentrated — far higher than the recommended dose.

There is a need for more research to examine the impact of turmeric on weight loss.

6. Cinnamon

Cinnamon is an aromatic spice produced from the bark of the Cinnamomum genus.

It contains a high level of antioxidants and offers a wide range of health benefits. Several studies have also found that cinnamon can increase weight loss.

It helps stabilize blood sugar, reducing hunger and appetite (10).

Studies have shown that cinnamon contains a specific compound that can mimic insulin’s effects, helping sugar transport from the general circulation (bloodstream) to your body cells (11), (12).

Cinnamon may also slow carbohydrate breakdown by decreasing specific digestive enzymes (13).

Using your herbs safely

When used to season foods, the herbs and spices mentioned above can provide a wide range of health benefits with minimal side effects.

It would be best if you didn’t go overboard. Use no more than one tablespoon daily. That’s the equivalent of 14 grams per day. Combining them with nutrient-rich whole foods is also essential to speed up fat burning.

If your herbs are in supplement form, stick to the correct dosage to prevent adverse effects. Also, if you have any underlying conditions or are currently on medications, you must consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement. If you have any questions, please leave them in the comments below.