Description

Garcinia cambogia: Garcinia cambogia is a herbal product derived from the fruit of the Malabar tamarind tree (also called Garcinia gummi-gutta) which is native to India, Nepal, and Sri Lanka. Common names include Garcinia cambogia (a former scientific name), as well as brindle berry, Malabar tamarind, and kudam puli (pot tamarind). With thin skin and deep vertical lobes, the fruit of G. gummi-gutta and related species range from about the size of an orange to that of a grapefruit; G. gummi-gutta looks more like a small yellowish, greenish, or sometimes reddish pumpkin. Composition: Chemical components of Garcinia extracts include xanthones, benzophenones, amino acids, and organic acids, most importantly hydroxy citric acid (HCA) the suspected ingredient responsible for its anti-inflammatory and appetite suppressant activity. Garcinia fruit is 10% to 30% HCA by weight, and extracts can contain between 20% and 60% of the tricarboxylic acid. HCA inhibits ATP citrate lyase an enzyme involved in fatty acid synthesis. The extract of HCA is available in powdered form or pill form. The best dose to take will vary significantly from person to person, and people should always discuss their options with a doctor beforehand. Benefits: 1. The dried and smoked rind of the Garcinia cambogia fruit is commonly used as a food preservative and, because of its sharp, sour taste, as a flavoring agent and spice, especially in fish curries. 2. The fruit rind has also been used in Ayurvedic medicine to treat gastrointestinal complaints and rheumatism. 3. More recently, Garcinia cambogia has been purported to be an appetite suppressant effective in inducing weight loss. It is primarily marketed as a way to lose weight naturally with little to no additional effort. HCA in garcinia has been found to boost the fat-burning potential of the body. Supplements of Garcinia Cambogia extract usually contain 50-60% of HCA (hydroxy citric acid) which is widely used for weight loss and obesity management mainly due to appetite-suppressant, anti-obesity, and hypolipidemic activities. 4. Garcinia cambogia is also marketed as a supplement that enhances athletic ability. Using garcinia or HCA may increase endurance levels during exercise and stop people from feeling exhausted too quickly.