Background
- (-)-Hydroxycitric acid (HCA) is a main component of the dried fruit rind of Garcinia cambogia, a native Southeast Asian plant commonly known as brindleberry or Malabar tamarind. HCA is present in high concentrations in Garcinia cambogia and is also found in the tropical plant Hibiscus sabdariffa. The dried rind of Garcinia cambogia has been used widely as a food preservative, a flavoring agent, and a carminative (prevents or relieves gas in the stomach and intestines). In Indian folk medicine, Garcinia cambogia is used to treat rheumatism (pain in the bones, muscles, joints, and tendons) and bowel complaints.
- HCA is currently used in a number of over-the-counter weight loss products. HCA may also enhance exercise performance, but different studies have produced conflicting results. More high-quality clinical trials are needed.
References
Natural Standard developed the above evidence-based information based on a thorough systematic review of the available scientific articles. For comprehensive information about alternative and complementary therapies on the professional level, go to . Selected references are listed below.
- Heymsfield SB, Allison D, Vasselli JR, et al. Garcinia cambogia (hydroxycitric acid) as a potential antiobesity agent: a randomized controlled trial. JAMA 1998;280(18):1596-1600.
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View Abstract - Lim K, Ryu S, Ohishi Y, et al. Short-term (-)-hydroxycitrate ingestion increases fat oxidation during exercise in athletes. J Nutr Sci Vitaminol (Tokyo) 2002;48(2):128-133.
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View Abstract - Tomita K, Okuhara Y, Shigematsu N, et al. (-)-hydroxycitrate ingestion increases fat oxidation during moderate intensity exercise in untrained men. Biosci.Biotechnol.Biochem. 2003;67(9):1999-2001.
View Abstract - van Loon LJ, van Rooijen JJ, Niesen B, et al. Effects of acute (-)-hydroxycitrate supplementation on substrate metabolism at rest and during exercise in humans. Am J Clin Nutr 2000;72(6):1445-1450.
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