The Health Benefits of Cha De Bugre

Cha de bugre is a substance often touted as a natural weight loss aid. Also known as "cafe do mato," cha de bugre is the fruit of the Cordia salicifolia tree (a plant that grows in tropical forests throughout South America). Often roasted and consumed in tea form, cha de bugre is also available as a dietary supplement.

Uses of Cha de Bugre

Cha de bugre has a fruit that resembles a coffee bean and it is high in caffeine. The fruit also contain allantoin and allantoic acid. Supplements with cha de bugre note that they might be used as an appetite suppressant and for the caffeine effect of increased energy.

Caveats

Due to a lack of research, little is known about the safety of long-term or regular use of cha de bugre. However, there's some concern that using cha de bugre in combination with certain medications (such as lithium) may produce harmful effects.

Where to Find It

Available for purchase online, cha de bugre can be found in some natural-foods stores and in stores specializing in dietary supplements.

Alternatives

Preliminary research suggests that certain other natural remedies may offer appetite-suppressing effects. For instance, there's some evidence that capsaicin may help reduce appetite, possibly by decreasing your levels of ghrelin (a hormone involved in promoting hunger).

In addition, there's some evidence that certain alternative therapies (including yoga, meditation, and tai chi) may support weight-loss efforts.

Some studies also indicate that drinking green tea on a regular basis, maintaining optimal levels of vitamin D, and increasing your intake of fiber-rich substances (such as flaxseed) may help promote weight loss.

A Word From Verywell

Due to the limited research, it's too soon to recommend cha de bugre as a treatment for any condition. It should be noted that self-treating a chronic condition with cha de bugre and avoiding or delaying standard care may have serious consequences. If you're considering using it, make sure to consult your physician.