History

• Garcinia cambogia is derived from the gambooge fruit that is native to Indonesia. The fruit has been used in Indian traditional medicine for thousands of years. The fruit has been used in the past to treat such things as delayed menstruation, constipation, intestinal parasites and edema. Evidence has shown the extract to have appetite suppressing, fat burning and energy boosting properties, and it has been used in weight loss herbal remedies for years.
  
  

Identification

• The gambooge fruit is pumpkin shaped but much smaller. The rind of the fruit is used to make an extract, which is used for herbal remedies and supplements. Garcinia cambogia extract is listed as a major ingredient in several types of weight loss supplements. This herbal extract contains hydroxycitric acid, which may be listed as an ingredient in supplements containing the herb.
  
  

Effects

• The basic effects of garcinia cambogia are to inhibit the enzymes in the body that turn excess carbohydrates into fat. By inhibiting this enzyme, the supplement then results in burning the extra carbohydrates with the added benefits of appetite suppression, decreased body fat and energy boosting. Some studies have shown these benefits to be extremely effective while others show no significant decreases in body fat or weight.
  
  

Side Effects

• There are no known adverse side effects in healthy adults taking garcinia cambogia. People with Alzheimer's or other forms of dementia disease, pregnant and lactating women, children and people diagnosed with diabetes mellitus should avoid taking garcinia cambogia. Some people may also suffer an allergic reaction to this supplement or the inactive ingredients added to it.
  
  

Considerations

• Because garcinia cambogia is an herbal supplement, it is not held to the same standards and restrictions as chemical drugs by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Consequently, there may be drug interactions that are not known at this time or that are not listed on the packaging. It is always important to discuss any herbal supplements or remedies with a health care professional before beginning to take them.