Today, roughly 1 in 3 American adults is obese, so it’s no wonder weight loss has become a priority for many of us. But losing weight doesn’t have to cost you your money or your health. A lot of the weight loss methods out there are risky, and some are downright dangerous.

Instead of buying into the lies of marketers who use phony claims, exaggerated performance promises, and flat-out lies to promote their products, combine a balanced diet with a sound exercise program to lose weight and keep it off. Then, use these natural home remedies to support your efforts…

Caution: These may not be suitable for everyone, especially people with chronic health conditions and those on medication. Check with your doctor if you’re unsure.

1. Ginseng

Ginseng, a slow-growing perennial plant that belongs to the Panax family, is a powerful stimulant well-known for its metabolism-boosting effects. It has also been shown to enhance mental alertness, fight fatigue, and increase energy levels – all of which improve your ability to exercise.

Additionally, there is evidence that it may help manage blood sugar, which can curb cravings and suppress appetite. It makes sense then that ginseng would be used as a remedy for weight loss. To take advantage of its effects, add a teaspoon measure of chopped (American or Korean) ginseng to a cup of boiling water. Let it steep for 7 minutes. Drink twice daily.

2. Lemon Juice and Black Pepper

Lemon juice can aid digestion and help your gastrointestinal tract break down foods, among other things. Piperine, the chemical compound that gives black pepper its pungent taste, can interfere with the genes responsible for controlling fat production in the body, studies show. It can also reduce fat levels in the blood and enhance nutrient absorption.

All very good news if you’re on a mission to lose weight. Simply pour the freshly squeezed juice of half a lemon into a cup and fill it up with boiled water. Then, sprinkle in some black pepper (4 grinds should do the trick). Drink once a day. Note that this home remedy should replace a sugary beverage.

3. Peppermint and Dandelion

This aromatic concoction is great for the liver, which is a vital organ that plays an important role in various metabolic processes in the body, including those that affect weight, such as the metabolism of fats and carbohydrates. Peppermint suppresses appetite, aids digestion, and can alleviate stress (stress increases cortisol levels and affects metabolism).

Dandelion is rich in nutrients, low in calories, and also improves digestion. In addition, it has diuretic properties that reduce water weight. Pour boiling water into a cup with dandelion and peppermint leaves (a teaspoon measure of each) and cover. Steep for 7 minutes. Strain and enjoy – twice a day.

4. Green Tea & Ginger

Green tea is another well-known weight loss remedy. It is loaded with catechins, which are potent antioxidants, the most important of which is epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG). This compound inhibits an enzyme that breaks down norepinephrine, increasing its production and breaking down fat.

Green tea also contains caffeine, which boosts fat-burning and exercising ability. Ginger helps lower cholesterol, suppresses appetite, and cleanses the colon, improving digestion. Place a teaspoon measure of green tea into a strainer with ½ inch of finely chopped fresh ginger root. Add 8 ounces of boiling water and steep for 4 minutes. Twice daily.

5. Plain Yogurt and Honey

Kickstart your weight loss in the mornings with this delicious, low-calorie, nutrient-dense snack. Yogurt contains probiotics that maintain a healthy gut flora balance in the body and regulate digestion. When your gastrointestinal system is running smooth, foods are processed more efficiently, and you are less likely to pick up weight.

The honey adds a touch of natural sweetness to the yogurt (which should preferably be low fat), and because it has a healthier glycemic index than sugar and contains vitamins, minerals, and amino acids, it won’t pack on pounds. Add 1 tablespoon of organic raw honey to a cup of plain yogurt at breakfast.