Also known as: Garcinia gummi-gutta, Malabar Tamarind, Hydroxycitric Acid (HCA)
Garcinia cambogia is a tropical fruit whose rind contains hydroxycitric acid (HCA), marketed widely for weight loss. However, clinical evidence for meaningful weight reduction is weak, and safety concerns have been raised regarding liver toxicity.
Garcinia cambogia (Garcinia gummi-gutta) is a small, pumpkin-shaped tropical fruit native to Southeast Asia. The rind of the fruit contains high concentrations of hydroxycitric acid (HCA), which inhibits ATP-citrate lyase, an enzyme involved in de novo lipogenesis (fat synthesis from carbohydrates). HCA has also been proposed to increase serotonin levels and suppress appetite. Despite significant commercial popularity following media promotion, systematic reviews and meta-analyses of randomized controlled trials have found only small, statistically marginal, and clinically insignificant differences in body weight compared to placebo. Furthermore, several case reports of hepatotoxicity have led to FDA warnings about garcinia-containing multi-ingredient products. Its use should be approached with caution and realistic expectations.
A meta-analysis of 12 RCTs found a small reduction in body weight (approximately 0.9 kg) with HCA supplementation compared to placebo over 2–12 weeks, but the clinical significance is questionable.
HCA inhibits ATP-citrate lyase in vitro, which could reduce fat synthesis from excess carbohydrates. However, de novo lipogenesis is a minor pathway in humans on typical diets, limiting practical relevance.
30–60 minutes before meals, divided into 2–3 doses
Do not exceed 2.800 mg HCA daily. Discontinue immediately if signs of liver injury (jaundice, dark urine, abdominal pain) occur.
Standardized dosing (typically 50–60% HCA by weight)
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