Lotus Leaf as a Fat-burner – Does it Live Up to the Promise?

But, is it really effective? And, it is worth spending your hard-earned money on? Let us get to the bottom of the matter.

Using extract derived from the lotus plant leaf is one such method suggested to fight obesity. Recognition of the potential benefit of the lotus leaf extract in reducing body-weight has meant that its popularity in fat-loss supplements has skyrocketed.

Lotus Leaf Extract and Fat Loss?

The sacred lotus plant (Nelumbo nucifera) has been used in traditional Chinese and Indian medicine since ancient times (Mukherjee, Mukherjee, Maji, Rai, & Heinrich, 2009).

Extract of the leaf of this plant (allegedly) possesses anti-obesity properties. This is – supposedly – due to the presence of bioactive chemicals like flavonoids (Ohkoshi et al., 2007), flavonoids glycosides (Goo, Choi, & Na, 2009) and alkaloids (Kashiwada et al., 2005).

Scientific Evidence for / against lotus leaf extract

Although there is very little ‘human evidence’ that lotus leaf extract has an effect on lipid accumulation in the adipocytes or lipolysis, some positive proof seems to be forthcoming from animal studies.

• Lotus leaf extract was shown to inhibit absorption of fats (and carbohydrates), stimulate lipid metabolism and increase energy expenditure in obese mice (Ono, Hattori, Fukaya, Imai, & Ohizumi, 2006)
• A 50% alcohol lotus leaf extract was shown to stimulate lipolysis (breakdown of fat) (Ohkoshi et al., 2007)

However, as stated earlier, that lotus leaf extract may reduce lipid accumulation in fat cells and/or stimulate lipolysis has not been proven.

According to some researchers, a ‘mono-therapy’ for preventing obesity may not be the best idea. Combining several natural, plant products may be more effective. Siegner et al. in their study published in the Nutrition & Metabolism in 2010 proved this when they reported that lotus leaf extract in combination with L-carnitine influences different processes during the adipocyte cell cycle – disrupting the accumulation of fat and the number of fat cells (Siegner et al., 2010) – thus helping fight obesity in human beings. This study showed that lotus leaf extract reduces triglyceride (fat) accumulation in a dose-dependent manner. Furthermore, an accelerated lipolytic effect was also seen with the use of lotus leaf extract.

Other benefits of Lotus Leaf Extract

As mentioned earlier, lotus leaf has been used since ancient times. Some of the conditions for which the extract of lotus leaf is recommended are:

• Anxiety and stress
• Diarrhoea
• Ringworm infestation
• Bacterial and fungal infections

Safety Profile of Lotus Leaf Extract

Safety profile of lotus leaf extract or capsules has never been investigated. And, as such, it should be avoided in pregnant and breast-feeding mums.

Also, there is some evidence to suggest that lotus leaf extract may induce gastrointestinal upset and increase the risk of bleeding (Jonathan Thompson, 2013). Thus, it should be use with caution (or shouldn’t be used at all) in those with gastrointestinal problems or with bleeding disorders and those taking blood thinners like aspirin.

If in any doubt, it is always best to consult your pharmacist or doctor.

Our Verdict on Lotus Leaf as Fat Burner

Evidence for fat-burning abilities of lotus leaf extract comes mostly from animal studies.

Human studies investigating the lotus leaf extracts have been far and few. Findings from human studies suggest that lotus leaf extract, especially in combination with other fat-loss agents may be more effective in human beings.

Going by the current scientific evidence – suggests that lotus leaf extract may help you reduce body fat when combined with other fat-loss agents.

A word of caution though! Do make sure that the other ingredients in the supplement are effective and safe.

About the author: Rachel Butler

Rachel has been with us since we launched back in 2012.

Rachel has reviewed countless products over the years, and has written many articles offering sound advice. Her professional opinions are widely respected.

Rachel graduated a BSc in Clinical Science from the University of Leicester, U.K.

She lives in York with her husband and young daughter and their dog, a little terrier named Betsy.