1
Luteolin
Luteolin, also known as Perilla frutescens, is a naturally occurring compound found in a variety of fruits and vegetables. It is well-known for its high antioxidant content as well as its anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective properties. A 2016 animal study discovered that mice given luteolin supplements had an increase in thermogenesis gene expression. Although the direct effect of luteolin on BAT is unknown, the stimulation of thermogenesis may lead to either an increase in BAT levels or the conversion of harmful fat. However, further research in this area is needed. Additionally, luteolin has benefits such as improving brain health and regulating cholesterol levels.
2
Kudzu
Pueraria lobata, also known as kudzu, is a plant native to China, Japan, and Korea. It has traditionally been used in various Asian regions to treat a variety of health issues, including fevers, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. Kudzu contains over 70 plant compounds and is high in antioxidants, contributing to its therapeutic properties. A 14-day study conducted in 2012 on the effects of kudzu on overweight mice discovered that the plant has anti-obesity properties. Notably, the study found an increase in brown fat levels shortly after its consumption.
3
Holy Basil
The basil family includes holy basil, scientifically known as Ocimum sanctum. It’s known as tulsi in India and has been used for centuries to treat skin and wound infections, relieve stress, and boost metabolic activity, among other things. Surprisingly, holy basil’s potency can be attributed to its active component, ursolic acid, which is valued for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antifungal properties. In terms of weight management, a study on the effects of ursolic acid on overweight mice discovered that introducing this compound resulted in an increase in both skeletal muscle and brown fat.
4
White Korean Ginseng
Panax ginseng, also known as White Korean ginseng, is a well-known herb that is frequently used in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). This herb is primarily valued for its high antioxidant content, which is necessary for reducing inflammation and oxidative stress (both of which are associated with weight gain) and improving immune system functionality. Ginsenosides, which are found in White Korean ginseng, are critical to these benefits and overall weight control. A 2019 mouse study investigated the effects of ginsenosides on obesity, discovering that their consumption can reduce obesity by stimulating brown fat activation.
5
Amur Cork Bark
The scientific name for amur cork bark is Phellodendron amurense, and it comes from a tree that grows in China, Japan, and Korea. Because of its antibacterial, antimicrobial, and antibiotic properties, this bark has been used in herbal remedies for many years. Berberine, a compound known for its ability to maintain a steady heartbeat, eliminate bacteria, and stabilise blood sugar levels, is a key component of this bark. According to a 2018 study on the effect of berberine on obesity in mice, berberine has the potential to facilitate the conversion of white adipose tissue to brown. Essentially, the study suggests that berberine promotes the browning of WAT.
6
Propolis
Propolis is a substance derived from the saps produced by bees. It is notable for containing over 500 antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory compounds. These properties are thought to help with wound recovery, cancer therapy, and chronic ailment relief. In 2020, researchers investigated the effect of propolis on obesity in mice, finding significant support for increased brown fat levels and thermogenesis.
7
Quercetin
Quercetin is a naturally occurring colorant that belongs to the flavonoids class of plant compounds. In terms of health benefits, it may alleviate symptoms associated with heart disease, neurological conditions, and even cancer. These results are due to quercetin’s high antioxidant content, which also suggests improved immune system functionality. Furthermore, a 2021 research study investigating the impact of this flavonoid on obesity found that it has the potential to increase brown fat levels by converting white fat. This study, like several other studies mentioned, used mice as test subjects.
8
Oleuropein
lOleuropein is a substance derived from olive oil and olive plant leaves. It is also known as Olea europaea. It has recently received attention for its role in a variety of health benefits. It is high in antioxidants, has anti-inflammatory properties, and provides disease protection. Oleuropein, in particular, has the potential to lower blood pressure and support healthy cholesterol levels. A 2008 study on obese mice found that consuming oleuropein increased brown fat levels and increased thermogenesis.
