Gambooge
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| Garcinia gummi-gutta (L.) N.Robson |
Garcinia gummi-gutta (syn. G. cambogia, G. quaesita), commonly known as Gambooge, Brindleberry, Brindall berry or Malabar tamarind, is a subtropical species of Garcinia native to Indonesia. The yellowish fruit is pumpkin-shaped.
[edit] Cultivation and uses
Gambooge is grown for its fruit in southeast Asia, and west and central Africa. It thrives in moist forests.
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.
Research taking place in 1965 found that hydroxycitric acid (HCA) is the principal active compound in the rind and flesh of gambooge fruits. HCA reduces the synthesis of fatty acids and cholesterol in vitro (lipogenesis inhibition). Extract from this species is nowadays widely sold as a component of dietary supplements and most recently as Skinny Water.
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