Hercampuri is a Peruvian herb, commonly used for liver detoxification and as a weight loss aid. The herb has also been shown to be effective in the treatment of acne and is thought to be effective in reducing cholesterol levels, treating hepatitis and preventing gall stones. The plant was often used by the Incan people as a herbal medicine, but a very limited number of scientific studies have been performed to determine its effects. No side effects have been found associated with the use of the herb.
Hercampuri is reported to have beneficial effects on weight loss through improving liver function and metabolism. It is thought to clean and protect the liver, as well as stimulate the production of bile. The liver is the organ within the body that converts unused food and calories into fat, where they are stored as long term energy within the body.
The herb contains iridoid glycosides, which are responsible for increasing the body’s production of bile. Although this seems irrelevant to the supposed weight loss effect produced by the herb, bile actually improves the body’s digestion of food, thereby ensuring that less of the consumed food is stored as fat and reducing fat levels. In addition, saponines and mucilage tannins are two compounds present within hercampuri that are thought to aid its cholesterol reducing qualities. Despite having these weight-loss and healthful properties, hercampuri is only a minor ingredient in many weight loss preparations, and is not generally used alone as a weight loss aid.
Studies have suggested that hercampuri can also reduce acne. This is as a result of its anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory qualities, which reduces the concentration of the bacteria known to cause acne. Although more research needs to be done on the effects of hercampuri for fighting acne, the initial results are positive.
The hercampuri plant typically stands 2 inches (5 cm) tall and is a member of the family gentianaceas. The plant’s active ingredients, in addition to saponines and mucilage tannins, include eritaturin, amarogentin, gentianic acid, hemicelluloses and various sugars. It is important to remember that the research on the effects of hercampuri is still in its infancy.