Gambooge

Garcinia cambogia (also Garcinia quaesita), commonly known as gambooge, brindleberry, Brindall berry or Malabar tamarind, is a subtropical garcinia species native to India. Researches taking place in 1965 have found that hydroxycitric acid (HCA) is the principle active compound in the rind and flesh of gambooge fruits.

Distribution and habitat

This species is found in Southeast Asia, in West and Central Africa. It thrives in moist forests.

Medical and culinary interest

In Indian traditional medicine, this species was prescribed for edema, delayed menstruation, constipation and intestinal parasites. In the form of precoction, it was also used for rheumatism and bowel complaints. The extract and rind of Garcinia cambogia is a curry condiment in India.

Moreover, HCA seems, although this is not yet scientifically proved, to reduce the synthesis of fatty acids and cholesterol in the human body (lipogenesis inhibation). As a result, extract from this species is nowadays widely commercialized as a component of dietary supplements.