Update 3/9/24. If you have not heard of Zi Xiu Tang Bee Pollen capsules (also called Zi Xiu Tang Beauty Face and Figure Capsules), this is a natural weight loss supplement where some websites actually encourage people to eat what they want! Even the educational pamphlet that accompanies Zi Xiu Tang Bee Pollen say: “No Diet Restrictions” and that people can achieve “excellent results” even while eating “high fat and high-calorie foods”. The power of Zi Xiu Tang is said to be due to bee pollen and the other ingredients in the supplement. But, things are more complicated than that. This is the second review I've written about the Zi Xiu Tang Bee Pollen. For more insights on the ingredients, see the original review of Zi Xiu Tang bee pollen. Also, read almost 1000 comments on this review and hundreds of comments on the other Zi Xiu Tang Reviews.
Read The Updates First
I posted these updates above the rest of the content so you would see them first. As you will see below, I originally felt Zi Xiu Tang was a laxative, that still did not fully explain the crazy amounts of weight people were experiencing with this product. I wondered if there might be something else behind these effects.
Unfortunately, the FDA proved my suspicions correct when they found a drug called sibutramine (also known as Meridia) in Zi Xiu Tang -as well as other bee pollen weight loss supplements. Sibutramine has been linked to heart attacks and strokes, so it was banned in the US many years ago.
Update 4/8/14. The FDA warns people to immediately stop taking Zi Xiu Tang Bee Pollen's weight loss supplements. It tested several Zi Xiu Tang products – including those that were said to be “genuine” and not counterfeit. The FDA found that some products contained not only sibutramine, an illegal weight loss drug but some also contained Phenolphthalein, a chemical that may increase the risk of cancer. See the FDA alert for more information.
Update. 10/24/12. The FDA has alerted the public that Zi Xiu Tang contains the illegal weight loss drug called sibutramine. They advise people to not take Zi Xiu tang. Click the link to see the FDA Public Notification on Zi Xiu Tang. It took the FDA 2 years to prove what I knew from the first day I reviewed Zi Xiu Tang. There was no way this stuff worked the way it did – if it only had the ingredients listed…
Update 6/26/12. I have written a review of ZXT Gold
Update 7/25/12. : ZXT Gold has been found to contain 2 drugs, see the ZXT Gold review for more information.
6/18/13 Update. Here is the review of Slim Trim U for more information.
At first, I could not explain the weight loss people were seeing with this supplement. One person who commented on my first Zi Xiu Tang review said he lost 13 pounds in 1 month!
Now I know why…
How Does Zi Xiu Tang Work?
Thanks to a friend who sent me a bottle of these so-called slimming capsules I can tell you that bee pollen is NOT the active ingredient in Zi Xiu Tang.
If Zi Xiu Tang works, it's because it's a laxative!
I know this is true because several of the ingredients in Zi Xiu Tang have laxative effects. I suspected this because many websites selling Zi Xiu Tang use the word “cleanse.” Cleanse is the alternative medicine term for laxatives.
Probably, the most famous ingredient in Zi Xiu Tang is senna. Senna is not a weight loss supplement; it is a laxative. The FDA also classified it as a non-prescription, over-the-counter laxative drug.
Several other ingredients as you will see also act as laxatives.
The problem with laxatives is the only weight they help us expel feces (poop) and water.
What Does Zi Xiu Tang Mean?
The supplement's name doesn't seem to refer to anything specific. When translated from traditional Chinese to English, the name means “self-show soup.” However, when translated from Literary Chinese, the word means “be.” Could this be a reference to bee pollen, the alleged key ingredient?
Zi Xiu Tang Ingredients Label
Even if you wear eyeglasses, you will find it very difficult to read the ingredients in Zi Xiu Tang. The bottle and box abound with decorative Chinese art and characters, making reading the ingredients very difficult.
The red lettering of the ingredients makes it doubly hard to read. I had trouble even when I held the bottle up to a lamp! So, to save you the trouble, I've listed the ingredients here.
Zi Xiu Tang Full Ingredients List
Here is the entire list of ingredients in Zi Xiu Tang.
- Bee Pollen
- Chinese Yam
- Barbary Wolfberry Fruit
- Lotus Seed
- Dietary Fiber
- Green tea
- Rhubarb
- Aloe
- Cassia
- Astrigillis
- Polygonum multiflorum
- Lotus leaf
- Gynostemme
- Radish seed
- Malt
- Mulberry
- Hawthorn,
- “Vitamins”
Tthe first 4 ingredients are not weight loss herbs. I've already covered these ingredients in my first Zi Xiu Tang review. Let’s now talk about all the other ingredients.
Zi Xiu Tang Ingredients and Side Effects
Senna. Senna is a laxative. Because Zi Xiu Tang contains senna, it’s possible that the same side effects from using too much senna may be seen in those who take Zi Xiu Tang. The side effects can include,
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal cramping gas/bloating
- Flatulence
- Dizziness
Because of diarrhea, products like Zi Xiu Tang that contain senna may in extreme cases cause excessive loss of electrolytes. This can lead to muscle weakness and maybe heart problems. This is because electrolytes are needed for muscle contraction and the heart is a muscle.
People using heart/blood pressure medications should not use senna-containing supplements or products that have similar laxative effects.
To highlight what can happen with senna overdose, there is a case report of a woman who developed liver failure after long-term use of senna tea.
In this report, the woman was drinking a liter of senna tea that contained 70 grams (2.5 oz) of senna fruit. Even with this amount, it took 3 years before liver failure presented itself. This is worth mentioning because everybody is different, and people often think “more is better,” which isn’t always true.
Unlike the laxative effect of fiber, senna is a non-fiber laxative. It works differently to relieve constipation. One of the ingredients in Senna is a class of compounds called anthranoids, which exert laxative effects by damaging the cells of the colon. Because of this, some have speculated that long-term use of senna, may increase the risk of cancer
Because senna supplements have not been studied for long-term use, it is hard to say if this is true or not.
Senna products should be avoided in people who have
- Hemorrhoids
- Heart disease / Blood pressure issues
- Abdominal pain
- Bowel obstructions
- Pregnant or nursing mothers (for obvious reasons)
- Diabetics
In theory, long-term use of senna supplements may make it harder to defecate as the person becomes dependent on the product.
People who take Zi Xiu Tang may notice that the color of their urine looks pink or rust-colored. This is probably due to the senna (and polygonum multiflorum, discussed below) and is not dangerous.
Update: In 2010 Senna was apparently removed from Zi Xiu Tang. Some people report that their bowel movements are less while others report no change. See the comments for more information.
Cassia. Zi Xiu Tang also contains Cassia. While the word cassia is sometimes used to describe the spice, cinnamon, I don’t think this is how they are using the word because cassia can also be another name for senna.
Both of cassia and senna are listed separately on the Zi Xiu Tang label; cassia appears first, followed by senna. Both words are sometimes used together (“cassia senna”). Other names for cassia senna are Cassia acutifola, and Cassia angustifolia.
If cassia on the Zi Xiu Tang label refers to cassia senna, then this, too, is a laxative and likely works synergistically with senna to promote a greater laxative effect.
Green Tea. Zi Xiu Tang also contains green tea. Because green tea contains caffeine, it’s theoretically possible that the caffeine may slightly raise metabolism. This is likely why the Zi Xiu Tang says “increase metabolism” and “increase energy” on the front of the display box. The box does not say how much caffeine is in Zi Xiu Tang.
Rhubarb. Zi Xiu Tang contains Rhubarb which also has laxative effects. It may also have estrogen-like effects. Rhubarb may act synergistically with senna and cassia to cause a greater laxative effect.
Aloe. Zi Xiu Tang contains aloe as well. Aloe juice also has a laxative effect however the bottle does not say if Zi Xiu Tang contains aloe juice or not.
Astragalus. Like all herbs, there are many types of Astragalus. Often used to treat the common cold, this herb does not seem to have any laxative effect. As for astragalus side effects, in large amounts (about 1 ounce, which is likely more than is in Zi Xiu Tang) this herb may increase the immune system which, while good for some can also be bad for others like those with some immune system disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis.
Polygonum multiflorum. This is an herb also known as Fo-Ti and Ho Shu Wu. Some research notes Polygonum multiflorum has a mild laxative effect. At least 7 case reports have noted liver problems including hepatitis resulting from use/misuse of this herb.
Other reports hint that Polygonum multiflorum might alter blood sugar levels (that may be bad for diabetics).
On a side note, Polygonum multiflorum may also be found in supplements designed to lower cholesterol; research suggests that extracts may lower cholesterol and increase HDL. More research is needed to confirm this.
Gynostemma. Some websites say this herb can both cause both weight loss and weight gain. In this respect, Gynostemma might be classified as an adaptogen. An adaptogen is a non-medical term used in some circles to describe how a supplement “adapts” to your needs. Websites also claim that gynostemma has laxative effects.
Radish Seed. I could not locate any weight loss effects of this ingredient.
Malt: I could not locate any weight loss effects of this ingredient.
Mulberry. This contains fiber which acts as a laxative.
Hawthorn. People who take medications for high blood pressure or a heart condition should not use hawthorn or supplements containing Hawthorn. Hawthorn does influence the way the heart pumps. This means hawthorn can interact with your heart or blood pressure medications.
Vitamins. Zi Xiu Tang lists “vitamins” but does not indicate which vitamins it contains.
Ingredients that are Laxatives
To recap, here are the ingredients in Zi Xiu Tang that are laxatives
- Senna
- Cassia
- Rhubarb
- Aloe (if it contains Aloe juice)
- Polygonum multiflorum
- Gynostemma
- Mulberry
For more info see my review of Zi Xiu Tang Side Effects
Who makes Zi Xiu Tang?
The company that makes zi xiu tang is said to be the Guangzhou Zixiutang Biotechnology located in China. The strange thing is that I've never been able to find a picture of what this company looks like. Google searches turn up no pictures of the company. Even the website for the company – cn-zixiutang.com – does not show a picture of the company (the website no longer exists).
For more info on the company, see my review of the bee pollen weight loss supplement Slim Trim U.
Zi Xiu Tang Warning Label
If you read the label of Zi Xiu Tang you see this warning of who should not use the product (I'm quoting them verbatim):
“Not Suitable For:
Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. People who suffer from either liver, kidney, Heart Disease, or High Blood Pressure. Adolescents, Elderly, Depressed people, or Anyone with bee or pollen allergies.”
Does Zi Xiu Tang Work?
There is little clinical evidence of weight loss effects for most of the ingredients in Zi Xiu Tang. If it really works, it may be due to laxative effects. Some websites that sell Zi Xiu Tang say the product does not contain sibutramine (weight loss drug), or other drugs like Rimonabant (weight loss drug), Phenytoin (anti-seizure drug) or Phenolphthalein (has laxative effects). This is perhaps a response to previous FDA action against bee pollen-containing weight loss supplements. Does it work as well without pharmaceutical enhancement? You tell me.
Hello Joe
I have been taking these pills on and off for a while now. The bad side effects for me made me stop taking it such as extreme dry mouth, arthritis pain much worse, diarrhea, dizziness. The one thing I did notice that was actually a benefit was a significant reduction in my GERD.
Are there any ingredients in zzt that would help with GERD that you know of? I would love to just take whatever it is that is in this that helps me with the GERD. Another thing I noticed was my cholesterol is up slightly which I found odd because I take fish oil and CLA and that has always kept that under control. This leads me to believe that there is something in zxt that blocks fats even the good fats which would explain the diarrhea after eating something fatty or fried.
Anthony, thanks for reporting your zi xiu tang side effect. You are the first I’ve heard who encountered these side effects. I will look into rhubarb and testosterone levels and post a review on this in the future if I can find enough evidence.
I think that your symptoms should improve since you were only taking zxt for 2 weeks.
If you don’t feel any different in a week or so do see your doctor, just to be on the safe side.
Do comment again in the near future with updates on how you are feeling and hopefully improving.
I’m a 39 year old healthy male…I started taking ZXT about 2 weeks ago..I’m 5’5″ 200 lbs and a weight lifter..I have a little bit of extra belly fat and “love” handles, so i decided to give this product a shot…aside from the bloating, gas a many trips to the bathroom…I also recently started experiencing a complete drop in sexual desire (from 100% interest to barely even having desire) and slight testicular shrinking…after reading the above ingredient list…I suspect the rhubarb may be to blame..increasing estrogen levels and decreasing my testosterone levels…although I never took steroids, I assume it is the similar effect (just did some reading on the net)
Needless to say, I stopped this morning…my only concern is, will my levels go back to normal after stopping this supplement? BTW very informative web site…thanks
Hi Michelle
If you have read the comments you know that I personally feel there is something in zi xiu tang that is not listed on the label. People have reported some odd and sometimes disturbing side effects when taking zi xiu tang (read through the comments). There do appear to be counterfeit zxt out there so how much is due to that I am not sure.
As for exercise, I am an exercise physiologist/personal trainer by profession. Walking your dog and using your treadmill is good. If you have not used your treadmill that is what I recommend for now. Just walk. you don’t need to run.
Start with 20 -30 minutes a day at a comfortable pace and do 2-3 days a week. if you have any back pain, cut back to where you dont feel pain. slowly increase the time you are on the treadmill until you can do 60 minutes a day, at least 4 days week.
Since I dont know what is causing your low back pain or how bad it is, I’d rather not give you specific advice. I would suggest talking to a qualified personal trainer (certified does not mean qualified so make sure they know about how to work around your low back pain).
There is a LOT of exercise and health info on my website http://www.Joe-Cannon.com including info on how to tell good trainers from bad personal trainers.
I’m currently finishing up my second bottle of zxt and have lost about 25lbs since November. The majority of my weight-loss was apparent in the first 3 weeks — I lost nearly 15lbs. Ever since then I’ve been losing at a steady and slow pace. I don’t mind having to restock on the pills, but I’m unsure of whether or not there is solid evidence which states that zxt is harmful. The fact that I haven’t been able to find any solid evidence which states zxt IS SAFE makes me feel just as weary of reordering.
The side effect I’ve experienced most is dry mouth, and there are also times I’ve felt jittery/dizzy. The latter is usually caused by lack of water or nourishment.
I’m 23 years old, and have never taken any type of medication (except antibiotics when needed) or supplements for an extended period of time. Overall I’ve always been healthy, and being on zxt for the past few months hasn’t made me feel alarmingly ill.
Though losing nearly 25lbs in two months is amazing I know I need to exercise more than just taking my dog for a brief walk daily. So I guess what it comes down to is: has anyone found solid evidence stating that zi xiu tang is either harmful or safe?
Also, because I still have 20lbs+ to lose to be considered healthy for my height (at the moment I’m 5’3 176lbs), can anyone offer some exercise routines that could help me out? I own a treadmill, but I don’t know if there’s something more I should include in my routine aside from walking. Unfortunately, even though I’m only 23 years old, I have an injury in my lumbar which limits what I can do/how long I can do it for.
Any advice would be much appreciated 🙂
Thank you!
Tina, I dont recommend that you sit around and not exercise while trying to lose weight. zxt or not, youll lose muscle tissue (about 50% of the weight lost will be muscle) and that will not come back. Just wanted to toss that out to ya.
I’m not sure if this is my imagination, but after close to 3 wks on these pills, my legs and arms are abnormally sore. Not in a painful way, but the kind of sore you get after you’ve had a good workout. My thighs seems a lot more toned and my arms muscles seem slightly bigger.
Here’s the thing…I haven’t worked out AT ALL. I literally sit around on my couch all day and watch TV. I’m a bum. I’m not complaining, of course, but I’m thinking the pills are causing this.
Hi, my name is Gloria and I have been taken ziu tang for about two months. I weighed 211 lbs and now I’m 193lbs. I am starting to work out about 2 to 3 times a wk. My side effects are dizziness on occasion and increase heart rate. I check my heart rate and it goes up to 90 bpm. BP is always good, but at times I feel anxious with life stresors and feel that the pills makes it worse. The days I wake up feeling anxious I don’t take the pills. I am going through some difficulties in life right now otherwise I don’t feel anxious. I think the pills makes it worse when I am feeling this way, otherwise I feel OK when I take them.
Lynn
you should be exercising all along. if you only diet you will lose muscle tissue – which won’t return after its lost. the exercise will help to reshape your body.
Don’t focus on weight – focus on how you feel. Add strength training to your exercise routine. that will help reshape your body. Find a trainer if you dont know how to use the machines at the gym.
you only need to do 3 exercises for starters – 1 for legs; 1 for chest. 1 for back.
I dont recommend alcohol – every gram of fat has 9 calories; every gram of alcohol has 7 calories – almost as much as fat. alcohol can put weight on you.
What can happen if i dont drink enough water? and can i drink alcohol if i took zi xiu tang? i heard you can’t but its new years, what if i drink a small amount? i am now 137lb i was wanting to weigh 135 but im still unsatisfied with my body – what i should weigh, but i think im going to aim for 130 or 125lb but i was also wondering that when i finally lose the weight i want gone, can i exercise instead of doing the one pill day for 30 days?
Hi Ayleen,
We can drink too much water. It’s called hyponatremia (water intoxication) and it can be fatal. true you would have to drink pretty much drink an ocean of water but I have known people who drank so much water they caused it. I would not drink more than a couple of quarts of water per hour. beyond this might cause it.
hi i started using zi xiu tang pills on nov 11th 2010 and have lost about 17 pounds. i really really love it because it makes me eat so much less and i never have that feeling of being bloated from eating so much.
i do go to the bathroom a lot more often which i dont mind and im always thirsty so i drink sooo much water. but isn’t that all good? i never overeat, i go to the bathroom a lot and i drink so much water throughout the day.
everyone is scaring me with the whole heart problems and people dying from it and stuff. i cant stop taking it now until I’m back to 135 lbs. i was 176 and I’m around 160 now. should i stop? what do i do
Congrats Nikki! Gaining 20 pounds back is a small price to pay for all the joy your baby will bring you 🙂
so after dropping 70 pounds now I have to stop taking it. I think I’m pregnant! Go figure! Lose weight to feel better about myself and now I HAVE to gain at least 20 back!
Hi,
My eyes don’t stay dilated but I do have blurred vision, only during the day. My night time vision has actually improved greatly…?? I’ve done a ton of research on it and the many other symptoms and chalk it up to the hawthorn.
Lynn, congratulations on losing 70 pounds and I am very glad you are working out also. so many people just diet – which results in much muscle loss (the muscle doesn’t come back after its lost).
I think you may be the first person to say zi xiu tang caused your eyes to dilate. Did anybody else experience this side effect from zi xiu tang?
I was 200lb about a year and a half ago, i lost the first 50lb with just exercising and zantrex 3 but they have recently added a new ingredient called oxydrene to it and i did not get any energy from it and it stopped working for me. when i started zi xiu tang i was 151lb and I’ve lost 10b since 2 weeks.
My only problem is my eye’s are dilating, they will be dilated for a little bit and then they will go back to normal they dont hurt or anything, but that’s pretty much the only side effect, but what inspired me to lose weight was looking at a picture of me and my bf and i thought wow I’m huge then i got myself to working out, but my goal is 130lb, I’m 5′ 5” and right now about 139lb.
Kathryn,
the real zxt should have a code printed on the box. if you look through the comments several people have talked about this code.
Can anyone tell me how to be sure I’m getting the real Zi Xiu Tang and not a fake?
wow didn’t know about fruita. Thanks Joe, I know a few people taking this. Bleeding stools sounds serious. I would definitely stop using the product.
Tina and Nicole, thanks for sharing your experiences