Abstract: The invention provides a herbal cellulite treatment employing, in preferred embodiments, topical treatments, both method and cosmetic composition, wherein a refined lipophilic extract, and preferably also a refined aqueous extract of a Malvaceae plant, preferably whole Hibiscus Abelmoschus, are applied to the skin overlying cellulite-afflicted tissues. The treatments are intended to last at least four, and preferably eight or more weeks. Clinical tests show suprisingly superior results to those obtainable with aminophylline compositions. Inventive treatments can reduce thigh diameters and fatty layer thickness, as well as skin condition. In vitro tests show remarkable lipolytic properties, apparently attributable to .beta.-receptor stimulation, and valuable lipogenesis inhibition properties apparently attributable to .alpha..sub.2 -blocking. Preferred extracts show low toxicity.