Abstract

Obesity is a multifactorial disorder characterized by excessive fat accumulation and associated with increased risks 
of metabolic, cardiovascular, respiratory, and oncological diseases. Despite the availability of lifestyle, 
pharmacological, and surgical interventions, many patients remain unresponsive or experience adverse effects, 
fueling the demand for safe and effective alternatives. Edible plants and their phytochemicals have attracted 
attention for their potential anti-obesity properties, acting through diverse mechanisms such as appetite 
suppression, inhibition of lipogenesis, enhancement of lipolysis, stimulation of thermogenesis, and modulation of 
gut microbiota. Well-studied plants include Camellia sinensis (green tea), Garcinia cambogia, Capsicum annuum 
(cayenne pepper), Zingiber officinale (ginger), Curcuma longa (turmeric), Cinnamomum verum (cinnamon), Citrus 
aurantium (bitter orange), Taraxacum officinale (dandelion), and Hibiscus sabdariffa, among others. Preclinical and 
clinical studies support their efficacy in reducing body weight, improving lipid and glucose metabolism, and 
alleviating obesity-related complications. However, evidence remains variable, and concerns about toxicity, 
bioavailability, and long-term effects persist. This review synthesizes current knowledge of medicinal plants with 
anti-obesity effects, highlighting mechanisms of action, clinical evidence, limitations, and future perspectives.