CLINICAL APPLICATIONS

* Obesity with excess appetite and constant craving for food

* Obesity with elevated glucose and cholesterol levels

 

WESTERN THERAPEUTIC ACTIONS

* Increases energy level and promotes a sense of well-being

* Speeds up body metabolism to burn off excess fat and body weight

* Suppresses appetite to decrease unnecessary food intake

* Mild diuretic effect to eliminate water accumulation

 

CHINESE THERAPEUTIC ACTIONS

* Clears Stomach heat

* Cleanses the bowels

* Detoxifies residual toxins

 

DOSAGE

Take 3 to 4 capsules on an empty stomach half an hour before meals with a large glass of water. Avoid eating any food or snacks after dinner and for the last three to four hours before bedtime.

 

INGREDIENTS

Bai Shao (Radix Paeoniae Alba)

Cha Ye (Folium Camelliae)

Chai Hu (Radix Bupleuri)

Ci Wu Jia (Radix et Rhizoma seu Caulis Acanthopanacis Senticosi)

Da Huang (Radix et Rhizoma Rhei)

Da Zao (Fructus Jujubae)

He Ye (Folium Nelumbinis)

Huang Qi (Radix Astragali)

Huang Qin (Radix Scutellariae)

Ji Xue Cao (Herba Centellae)

Sheng Jiang (Rhizoma Zingiberis Recens)

Zao Jiao (Fructus Gleditsiae)

Zhi Shi (Fructus Aurantii Immaturus)

 

BACKGROUND

Obesity is excess body fat and body weight. Prevalence of obesity is high in developed countries and is continuing to increase. The cause of obesity is generally a combination of genetic predisposition and a chronic imbalance of energy intake (diet) and expenditure (exercise). There are many complications of obesity, including cardiovascular disorders, diabetes mellitus, fatty liver and cirrhosis, osteoarthritis, psychological disorders, and premature death. Treatment options include dietary modifications, lifestyle changes (exercise), and, if necessary, use of herbs and/or drugs.

 

FORMULA EXPLANATION

Herbalite is an herbal formula specifically designed for gradual yet effective weight loss. Herbalite contains herbs that suppress appetite, increase body metabolism, and speed up the breakdown of fatty tissues.

        Chai Hu (Radix Bupleuri), the principle herb of this formula, is used with Huang Qin (Radix Scutellariae) to harmonize the shaoyang and clear heat from the Gallbladder (shaoyang). Da Huang (Radix et Rhizoma Rhei) and Zhi Shi (Fructus Aurantii Immaturus) purge heat from the Stomach (yangming). Da Huang (Radix et Rhizoma Rhei) and Zhi Shi (Fructus Aurantii Immaturus) also activate the qi circulation to dispel hardened stools. Bai Shao (Radix Paeoniae Alba) combines with Da Huang (Radix et Rhizoma Rhei) to relieve abdominal pain due to constipation. Bai Shao (Radix Paeoniae Alba) harmonizes qi and blood to help relieve depression and fidgeting. He Ye (Folium Nelumbinis) dissolves and eliminates dampness. Da Zao (Fructus Jujubae) and Sheng Jiang (Rhizoma Zingiberis Recens) harmonize all of the herbs in this formula. Zao Jiao (Fructus Gleditsiae) dries dampness and helps to break down fat through its function to dissipate phlegm stagnation. Ci Wu Jia (Radix et Rhizoma seu Caulis Acanthopanacis Senticosi) and Huang Qi (Radix Astragali) are used for their adaptogenic effects and to enhance overall well-being. Finally, Cha Ye (Folium Camelliae) and Ji Xue Cao (Herba Centellae) are added to increase the basal body metabolism and to burn excess fat.

 

CAUTIONS & CONTRAINDICATIONS

* Cha Ye (Folium Camelliae), commonly known as green tea, contains a small amount of caffeine as its natural ingredient.

* This formula is contraindicated during pregnancy and nursing.

* Discontinue Herbalite once the desired effect is achieved.

* The following warning statement is required by the State of California: ¡§This product contains Da Huang (Radix et Rhizoma Rhei). Read and follow directions carefully. Do not use if you have or develop diarrhea, loose stools, or abdominal pain because Da Huang (Radix et Rhizoma Rhei) may worsen these conditions and be harmful to your health. Consult your physician if you have frequent diarrhea or if you are pregnant, nursing, taking medication, or have a medical condition.¡¨

 

CLINICAL NOTES

* Herbalite is designed to help with weight loss safely and gradually. Individuals who take Herbalite lose an average of one pound per week.

* Do not lose weight drastically. Rapid weight loss may be hazardous and is more likely to lead to rebound weight gain.

* It is extremely important to change the dietary and exercise habits to lose weight and avoid rebound weight gain.

* This formula is used mainly to reduce appetite in patients with Stomach heat. Should the overweight issue be due to some other diagnoses such as hormonal imbalance or thyroid dysfunction, another formula should be used instead.

 

SUPPLEMENTARY FORMULAS

* For high cholesterol levels, add Cholisma.

* For high cholesterol levels and fatty liver, add Cholisma (ES).

* For edema and water accumulation, add Herbal DRX.

* With constipation, combine with Gentle Lax (Excess) or Gentle Lax (Deficient).

* For hypertension, add Gastrodia Complex or Gentiana Complex.

* With diabetes, combine with Equilibrium.

* To boost energy and raise the level of awareness, add Vibrant or Imperial Tonic.

* For excess fire in the body, add Gardenia Complex.

* For excess damp and phlegm, add Pinellia Complex.

* For periodic intestinal detox, add GI DTX.

 

ACUPUNCTURE TREATMENT

Traditional Points:

* Shenmen (HT 7), Liangqiu (ST 34), Gongsun (SP 4), Tianshu (ST 25), Daling (PC 7), Qihai (CV 6), Guanyuan (CV 4)

 

Classic Master Tung's Points:

* Obesity (general): Linggu (T 22.05), Huaguyi (T 55.02), Huagusi (T 55.05), Yizhong (T 77.05), Erzhong (T 77.06), Sanzhong (T 77.07), Zusanli (ST 36), Menjin (T 66.05), Liangqiu (ST 34), Renhuang (T 77.21), Tongguan (T 88.01), Tianhuangfu [Shenguan] (T 77.18), Mufu (T 88.38)*, Minghuang (T 88.12). Bleed SP and ST areas on the back and for dark veins nearby Weizhong (BL 40), Sihuashang (T 77.08), Sihuazhong (T 77.09), Sihuaxia (T 77.11), Yizhong (T 77.05), Erzhong (T 77.06) and Sanzhong (T 77.07). Bleed before needling for best result.

* Hyperlipidemia: Fuding (T 44.04), Houzhi (T 44.05), Luotong (T 44.14), Zhitong (T 44.13), Xinling (T 33.17)*, Linggu (T 22.05), Jianzhong (T 44.06), Dizong (T 44.09)

* Diabetes: Tianhuang (T 77.17), Dihuang (T 77.19), Renhuang (T 77.21), Tianhuang (T 88.13), Minghuang (T 88.12), Qihuang (T 88.14), Tongshen (T 88.09), Tongwei (T 88.10), Shuijin (T 1010.20), Shuitong (T 1010.19), Piyi (T 88.35)*, Pier (T 88.36)*, Pisan (T 88.37)*, Tianhuangfu [Shenguan] (T 77.18). Moxa Tianhuangfu [Shenguan] (T 77.18), Zhongwan (CV 12), Guanyuan (CV 4), Zusanli (ST 36).

 

Master Tung¡¦s Points by Dr. Chuan-Min Wang:

* Obesity, excessive hunger, cravings: Needle Dabai (T 22.04), Linggu (T 22.05), Tushui (T 22.11). Ear points Mouth, Small Intestine.

 

Balance Method by Dr. Richard Tan:

* Left side: Waiguan (TH 5), Hegu (LI 4), Yinlingquan (SP 9)

* Right side: Zusanli (ST 36), Neiguan (PC 6)

* Left and right sides can be alternated from treatment to treatment.

 

Ear Acupuncture:

* Stomach, Small Intestine, Kidney, Hypothalamus

* Embed ear seeds and massage the points for two to three minutes, thirty minutes before meals, to decrease appetite. Replace ear seeds once a week, and continue for five weeks per course of treatment. Rest for one to two weeks in between courses of treatments.

* The most effective ear seeds for weight loss are Jie Zi (Semen Sinapis) and Wang Bu Liu Xing (Semen Vaccariae).

 

Auricular Medicine by Dr. Li-Chun Huang:

* Treating obesity by regulating endocrine function: Pituitary, Endocrine.

¡± Increase excitation: Forehead, Exciting Point

¡± Heighten satiety: Hunger Point, Thalamus

¡± Promote excretion: San Jiao, Kidney, Large Intestine, Lung

* Treating obesity by reducing fat deposit: Abdomen, Buttock, corresponding points of fat deposits

* Obesity: Pituitary, Endocrine, Forehead, Exciting, Hunger, Thalamus, San Jiao, Kidney, Large Intestine, Lung, Abdomen, Buttock

 

NUTRITION

* Include in the diet more complex carbohydrates, such as tofu, potatoes, sesame seeds, beans, brown rice, and whole grains.

* Consume large quantities of fresh fruits and vegetables.

* Drink six to eight glasses of water on a daily basis.

* Drink tea (especially pu-er, green, oolong, and black tea) as it helps to flush the oils from the intestines.

* Decrease the consumption of red meat, fatty foods, processed or fried foods, and sugary foods including soda, pastries, pies, doughnuts, and candy.

* Eat small, frequent meals throughout the day instead of a few large ones. Eat slowly and chew thoroughly.

 

The Tao of Nutrition by Dr. Maoshing Ni and Cathy McNease:

* Substitute quinoa for all other grains except amaranth.

* Eat sweet rice cake (mochi); a small amount is very filling.

* Eat spelt and oat bran cereals and eliminate all refined starch from the diet.

 

LIFESTYLE INSTRUCTIONS

* The importance of a regular exercise routine cannot be over-emphasized. Exercise will stimulate the glands, improve energy levels, normalize metabolic functions, reduce fat, and burn calories.

* The following exercise can also be done in the shower to help weight loss. While in the shower, use a luffa to massage the body in circular motion starting from the toes to the heart, then the fingers to the heart. It is preferable to follow the channels while massaging to achieve maximum effect. Spend extra time to massage those places with the most fat deposits. Metabolism at those places where fat accumulates is usually slower and the surrounding muscles are not used as much. Therefore, massaging will enhance circulation to the area to help break up the stagnation. After the shower, drink one glass of water and soak in a tub with water that is warmer than 42¢XC (108¢XF). A high temperature bath stimulates the sympathetic nervous system and increases metabolism in a short period of time to help invigorate the body. However, this temperature is not suitable for long periods of soaking. One should not soak until he or she is dizzy. Finally, rinse off with cold water for at least 20 to 30 seconds to help tighten up muscle tone. [Note: For individuals who have wei (defensive) qi deficiency or those who catch colds frequently, it is not recommended to start this cold water rinsing regimen, as extreme changes in water temperature from high to low may trigger them to catch a cold. It is better to gradually lower the temperature, starting from warm then to cold water so the body can become accustomed to the change. Once the pores are conditioned to open and close with this temperature change, the body will become less susceptible to catching a cold.]

 

CASE STUDIES

* J.U., a 48-year-old female patient, presented with weight gain, strong appetite and low energy. No thyroid or other imbalances had been found. The patient¡¦s Western diagnosis was obesity and the TCM diagnosis was dampness. Herbalite was prescribed upon diagnosis and had been taking it for over a year. She has lost a considerable amount of weight, her appetite has decreased, and her energy has improved. This has allowed the patient to become more active and now has the ability to exercise more. She plans on continuing taking the herbs. Submitted by A.I. Hilo, Hawaii.

* M.L., a 59-year-old female, presented with obesity, experiencing difficulty losing weight after she had just gone through menopause. It was noted that she had cravings for sweets and had trouble controlling her diet. Her initial weight was 219 lbs and her height was 5¡¦0¡¦¡¦. Pulse was deep and thready and tongue was swollen and pale. The TCM diagnosis was Spleen qi deficiency with Kidney yin deficiency. Herbalite was prescribed at 4 capsules two times daily. Within the first week the patient had lost 5 lbs; however, she gained back two pounds the following week. In continuation, the patient had lost 8 lbs during the third week and kept improving her diet and exercise. Submitted by M.P., Muskego, Wisconsin.

* J.P., a 52-year-old female, presented with obesity with a desire to lose weight. Her initial weight was 210 lbs and her blood pressure was 136/80 mmHg. Pulse was slippery and deep; tongue was swollen, pale and had scalloped sides. The TCM diagnosis was dampness and phlegm. Herbalite was prescribed at 4 capsules two times a day. After taking the herbs for two weeks, the patient had lost 2 lbs and noticed a decrease in her appetite. Submitted by M.P., Muskego, Wisconsin.

* A 53-year-old female business owner presented with low energy, muscle pain and low back pain. The patient was 45 pounds overweight. Pain was felt in her lumbar area upon palpation. The pulse was slow and the tongue was pale and swollen with a thin white coat. The practitioner diagnosed the condition as Kidney yang deficiency, qi deficiency and Liver yang excess. The practitioner also suspected a possibility of hypothyroidism, which had yet to be confirmed by lab tests. The patient was treated with Herbalite, acupuncture, and diet modification. She then lost 43 pounds in four months and her energy level increased dramatically. The pain in her low back has also disappeared. Herbalite appeared to suppress her food cravings, increase her energy and improve her psychological status. The patient became more energetic, radiant, and positive. Submitted by T.S., East Providence, Rhode Island.

* A 58-year-old female was concerned about her voracious appetite, stress and inability to lose weight. The practitioner felt that the patient¡¦s overeating was directly caused by the patient¡¦s stress and her tendency to worry too much. The patient had problems with over-consumption of caffeine and sweets, which lead to her poor digestion and sluggish metabolism. Her diagnosis was Liver qi stagnation, Spleen qi deficiency and Kidney yin deficiency. After taking Herbalite, the patient reported losing 7 lbs in the first two weeks. She felt that her excessive appetite tapered down considerably, especially at night. With Herbalite, she reported a reduction for sweet cravings and a break from her detrimental eating cycle that was driven by emotions and stress. Submitted by S.A., Santa Fe, New Mexico.

* A 30-year-old female who worked in a computer company wanted to lose 10 pounds within one month. She was 5¡¦ 1¡¨ and weighed 125 pounds. She was instructed to take Herbalite (4 capsules three times daily on an empty stomach), along with recommendations to control her diet and engage in moderate exercise. On follow-up visits, she lost 6 pounds after two weeks, and a total of 11 pounds after four weeks. The patient was able to keep the weight off in a subsequent visit three months later. Submitted by J.C., Diamond Bar, California.

* A long history of battling weight gain had plagued a 34-year-old female teacher consequently causing her to feel low in energy along with bouts of depression. Diagnosis according to traditional Chinese medicine was damp and phlegm stagnation. Tongue analysis showed a ¡§puffy¡¨ tongue body with a thick coating. The pulse was described as ¡§rolling.¡¨ Although she had encountered difficulties in losing weight in the past, she was able to lose 10 pounds in three months by using Herbalite. Submitted Anonymously.

* A 32-year-old female computer technician who had gained almost 20 pounds within a year was diagnosed with damp and phlegm stagnation. Objective findings included a pale tongue body with teeth marks, a ¡§rolling¡¨ pulse, low energy, and slow metabolism. Weight loss from taking Herbalite gradually appeared after two weeks of the initial intake of the formula. Within six months of Herbalite treatment, she had lost another 40 pounds, had increased energy level, and felt better about herself. Submitted by T.G., Albuquerque, NM.

* A 49-year-old perimenopausal female presented with cold extremities, easily fatigued, and weight gain. The practitioner diagnosed her condition as yang deficiency. After a little more than a week of taking Herbalite, the patient lost 5 pounds. Along with the weight loss, she also felt more energized, had reduced appetite and felt warm sensations in her extremities. Dietary modifications, fluid intake, and exercise such as yoga were also implemented into her treatment protocol. Submitted by W.E., San Diego, California.

* D.K, a 33-year-old female, came to the office for weight loss. She had two children, ages three years and one year, and had not managed to drop the weight she had gained during her pregnancies. She was getting married in two months and wanted to be thinner for her wedding. Her weight-loss goal was 15 to 20 pounds. She did not feel that she had very good eating habits - she ate large portions and craved sweets. The patient said she was frequently irritable and exhausted. She also complained of constipation. Her blood pressure was 110/90 mmHg and her heart rate was 66 to 68 beats per minute. Her diagnosis according to traditional Chinese medicine was dampness in the Spleen with Liver qi stagnation. Herbalite was prescribed at 4 capsules three times a day. The patient took six bottles altogether. The first four bottles were without Da Huang (Radix et Rhizoma Rhei) since the patient was still nursing. The patient reported losing five pounds. She stated that Herbalite regulated her appetite sufficiently that she was able to be satisfied with smaller portions at meals. She also reduced her sugar consumption and increased her fiber intake. The client said that she took the herbs faithfully but she admitted that unless she greatly modified her diet and instituted an exercise regime, it was unlikely that she would succeed in meeting her weight loss goal. D.K was happy to report that Herbalite also relieved her constipation. Submitted by H.H., San Francisco, California.

* P.Z., a 61-year-old male patient, presented with obesity. He was 288 pounds and stated that he overate his whole life. Besides obesity, he also suffered from hypertension and high cholesterol and triglycerides levels. His blood pressure was 140/88 mmHg and his heart rate was 84 beats per minute. The diagnosis according to traditional Chinese medicine was damp accumulation. Herbalite was prescribed at 4 capsules three times daily. He lost a total of 66 pounds in approximately ten months. Patient was also given acupuncture treatment. Submitted by W.F., Bloomfield, New Jersey.

 

PHARMACOLOGICAL AND CLINICAL RESEARCH

Herbalite is designed to help with weight loss safely and gradually. Herbalite contains herbs that reduce body weight, lower blood glucose and cholesterols, and increase energy and body metabolism.

        Cha Ye (Folium Camelliae), commonly known as tea leaf, has a wide range of therapeutic functions and is commonly used for obesity, hyperglycemia and hyperlipidemia. According to laboratory, epidemiological, and human intervention studies, consumption of Cha Ye (Folium Camelliae) and its polyphenols is useful to prevent obesity, type II diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and other chronic diseases.[1] The mechanism of action to reduce body fat is attributed to the simultaneous inhibition of the enzymes catechol-O-methyltransferase, acetyl-CoA carboxylase, fatty acid synthase and impeding absorption of fat via the gut.[2] Furthermore, administration of a preparation of Cha Ye (Folium Camelliae) shows a significant effect to lower plasma fasting glucose, triglycerides, and insulin concentrations. The mechanisms of action are attributed to the beneficial insulin sensitivity and antioxidant effects.[3] Therapeutic benefits of Cha Ye (Folium Camelliae) are equally impressive in clinical research. According to a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel study on 111 healthy adult volunteers, daily consumption of decaffeinated Cha Ye (Folium Camelliae) was associated with significant benefits in lowering cardiovascular risk factors, such as decreased blood pressure, LDL cholesterol, serum amyloid-£\ (a marker of chronic inflammation), and serum malondialdehyde (a marker of oxidative stress). Adverse effects associated with Cha Ye (Folium Camelliae) are mild and few and not different from placebo.[4] For treatment of hypercholesterolemia and dyslipidemia, one study showed that the consumption of nine or more cups of Cha Ye (Folium Camelliae) per day was associated with a decrease in total cholesterol level but no decrease in triglycerides or HDL-cholesterol.[5] Another randomized, placebo-controlled study in 33 patients with dyslipidemia demonstrated that daily consumption of Cha Ye (Folium Camelliae) for eight weeks was associated with a significant reduction of total cholesterol and LDL-cholesterol levels, but not HDL-cholesterol or triglycerides, when compared to the placebo group.[6]

        He Ye (Folium Nelumbinis), also known as lotus leaf, also has excellent benefits to treat obesity, hyperglycemia and hyperlipidemia. For treatment of obesity, administration of He Ye (Folium Nelumbinis) reduces the body weight, body lipid accumulation, and activities of fatty acid synthase (FAS), glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase, and glutamic pyruvic transaminase. Enriched with flavonoids, He Ye (Folium Nelumbinis) extract is believed to target lipid-regulated enzymes and to reduce body lipid accumulation and prevent obesity.[7] According to another study, He Ye (Folium Nelumbinis) shows numerous mechanisms to suppress obesity, such as impairing digestion, inhibiting absorption of lipids and carbohydrates, accelerating lipid metabolism and up-regulating energy expenditure.[8] For management of hyperglycemia, He Ye (Folium Nelumbinis) and its active constituent catechin significantly and dose-dependently enhance insulin secretion to control hyperglycemia in non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus, according to a study in high-fat-diet-induced diabetic mice.[9] Furthermore, the extract of He Ye (Folium Nelumbinis) exerts potent antioxidant effects to protect against oxidative stress-related diseases and diabetic complications.[10] For treatment of hyperlipidemia, administration of He Ye (Folium Nelumbinis) effectively ameliorates lipid metabolic disorders (hyperlipidemia, hypercholesterolemia, and fatty liver) caused by a high fat diet, with efficacy similar to that of silymarin and Zocor (simvastatin).[11]

        Herbalite contains many other herbs with significant therapeutic actions to treat complications of obesity, such as hyperglycemia and hyperlipidemia. Bai Shao (Radix Paeoniae Alba) has an antihyperglycemic effect that appears to be insulin independent, as the plasma insulin was not changed in normoglycemic subjects treated with this compound.[12] In addition, Bai Shao (Radix Paeoniae Alba) also has a significant effect to lower total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein and triglyceride levels.[13] Huang Qi (Radix Astragali) has a hypoglycemic effect that lowers plasma glucose levels and alleviates insulin resistance. Furthermore, Huang Qi (Radix Astragali) also has antiobesity and hypolipidemic effects.[14] Ci Wu Jia (Radix et Rhizoma seu Caulis Acanthopanacis Senticosi) has a dose-dependent effect to lower plasma glucose levels. The mechanism of this hypoglycemic is attributed to the stimulation of pancreatic cells and augmentation of insulin release.[15] Clinical benefits of Ci Wu Jia (Radix et Rhizoma seu Caulis Acanthopanacis Senticosi) include an increase in energy level, protection against toxins and free radicals, and treatment of atherosclerosis.[16] One study demonstrated that Ci Wu Jia (Radix et Rhizoma seu Caulis Acanthopanacis Senticosi) reduces plasma sugar level and may be beneficial in treating diabetes.[17]^,[18]

        Finally, Huang Qi (Radix Astragali) and Ci Wu Jia (Radix et Rhizoma seu Caulis Acanthopanacis Senticosi) both have positive effects on the metabolic rate. Decoction of Huang Qi (Radix Astragali) has been shown to increase the basal metabolic rate and cAMP in laboratory studies.[19] The use of Ci Wu Jia (Radix et Rhizoma seu Caulis Acanthopanacis Senticosi) has been shown to effectively increase human physical working capacity.[20]

        In summary, Herbalite is an excellent formula that contains herbs to treat obesity and related complications, such as high blood glucose levels, high blood cholesterol levels, and low energy and metabolic rate.

 

COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS

Obesity is an increasingly common health problem that has few treatment options available. Due to diet and lifestyle changes, many people in developed countries now struggle continual weight gain. Furthermore, there are few or no drug treatments available. Many older drugs, such as ¡§fen-phen¡¨ (fenfluramine and phentermine) and dexfenfluramine, are now rarely used or withdrawn from the market because of serious and potentially life-threatening side effects, such as cardiac valvular dysfunction. Currently, there are very few drugs approved by the Food and Drug Administration for long-term weight loss, and they have serious side effects. Xenical (orlistat) reduces body weight by blocking absorption of fat in the digestive tract. Because it interferes with the normal absorption process, this drug is known to cause many gastrointestinal side effects, such as fecal incontinence, fecal urgency, flatulence with discharge, increased defecation, oily evacuation, oily rectal leakage, steatorrhea, and projectile diarrhea. Meridia (sibutramine) is a stimulant agent that causes weight loss by increasing metabolism and suppressing appetite. Similar to many other stimulant weight-loss drugs, use of Meridia (sibutramine) may cause anorexia, anxiety, constipation, dizziness, headache, insomnia, irritability, nervousness, rhinitis, xerostomia, hypertension, congestive heart failure, arrhythmias, seizure and stroke.

        In TCM, obesity may be treated with herbs that suppress appetite, increase energy and metabolism, and eliminate accumulation of dampness and water. Use of herbs has been shown to be effective to slowly and steadily lower body weight. Based on clinical experience and case studies, most individuals lose an average of one or two pounds per week while taking this herbal formula. Therefore, this formula is considered a gentle formula that needs to be taken on a long-term basis for optimal results. For those who are grossly overweight and have immediate health risks, use of this formula is inappropriate and not recommended, as it will not cause instantaneous weight loss. Lastly, it is extremely important to remember there is no magic bullet for weight loss. Without commitment to changing diet and lifestyles, use of either drugs or herbs will have limited effectiveness. The practitioners and patients must work together to achieve significant and sustainable clinical results.