Researchers at the University of Massachusetts may soon add some credence to the idea that Korean herbs could limit obesity problems that come from a poor diet.

They have partnered with scientists in South Korea to see if vetch and astralagus can lower the production of fat cells in the body, a process that could limit the risk for certain chronic conditions by reducing obesity rates.

"We know from immigrant epidemiologic studies that a balanced diet and exercise play a critical role in maintaining health, preventing chronic diseases and reducing the incidence of metabolic syndromes such as diabetes and obesity," says Dr Young-Cheul Kim.

The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine says that although there is anecdotal evidence supporting the use of herbs like rhodiola and astralagus, there have not been many scientific studies to confirm the benefits.

Kim says that in initial work with rhodiola, his team has found that it limits the ability for fat cells to grow by interfering with their genetics, a process he is hopeful can translate to effective treatments in people.

More than 25 million Americans are currently diagnosed with heart disease, according to the Centers for Disease Control.