The name Garcinia cambogia has become well known across the world in recent years for its health benefits, including its ability to aid in weight loss, increase metabolism, boost energy levels, reduce stress, fight depression, lower cholesterol, and regulate blood sugar, among others.
What is Garcinia Cambogia?
Garcinia cambogia is a small pumpkin-shaped fruit which is typically light green or yellowish in color. Garcinia cambogia was formerly the scientific name, but it has since been changed to Garcinia gummi-gutta. It also has a number of other common names, such as Malabar tamarind and Brindleberry.
This particular genus of plants has as many as 300 different species within it, but garcinia cambogia is the one that receives the most attention for its healthy properties. Thriving in tropical settings, this tree is primarily grown in Southeast Asia, India, and central Africa, and it is widely used in traditional recipes, as well as curries in a number of Asian countries. Various parts of the fruit and its extracts can be used for different flavor profiles, and it is also known as a traditional remedy for a wide range of afflictions.
Nutritional Benefits of Garcinia Cambogia
The active ingredient in garcinia cambogia, which makes it appealing for weight loss and health enthusiasts alike, is called hydroxycitric acid (HCA). The HCA, combined with the other nutrients and organic compounds found in the extract, do have the potential for powerful effects on the body. However, excessive consumption of the extract has also been linked to liver toxicity, so moderation is key.
Garcinia cambogia was largely unknown, but it exploded onto the international scene following claims of its miraculous effects on weight loss. Since then, it has become available all across the world, and while its proposed effects on weight loss are still hotly debated in many fitness and health fad circles, the extract of garcinia cambogia does appear to have a number of other health effects on the body that are beneficial in various ways.