Garcinia cambogia or Malabar tamarind is a small fruit native to India and certain tropical regions of Asia. In fact, this fruit resembles a miniature pumpkin, measuring around 5 cm. It is highly prized for its citrus-like flavour. But what makes it so popular in the West is its positive effect on weight loss.
Garcinia what?!
Garcinia cambogia is a tropical plant native to India and South-East Asia. It looks like a cross between a pumpkin and a tomato. The skin of the fruit contains a chemical called hydroxycitric acid (HCA), which has been shown to promote weight loss in animal tests.
Hydroxycitric acid extract is available in powder or pill form and can be purchased online or in health shops under a variety of names: garcinia, garcinia cambogia extract, cambogia garcinia, garcinia diet supplement, garcinia gummi-gutta, garcinia complex or brindleberry. What’s more, everything in Garcinia can be consumed. In fact, the bark is considered a condiment in some cultures; the seeds are used to make oil; the extract and zest are used to flavour dishes.
Garcinia identity card
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| French name | Garcinia |
| Latin name | Garcinia cambogia Desr. |
| Family | Clusiaceae |
| Geographical origin | Southeast Asia |
| Macroscopic description | Medium-sized evergreen tree. Fruit yellow to red when ripe, about 5 cm in diameter, ovoid with 6 to 8 grooves. Contains 6 to 8 seeds surrounded by a succulent aril. |
| Part Used | Dried fruit peel |
| Secondary Metabolites | Mainly hydroxycitric acid (HCA) up to 30% of the composition, and flavonoids. |
| Uses | Food preservative, flavouring agent, component of slimming supplements. |
| Doses | No officially recommended dose. Consumption of 2800 mg/d of hydroxycitric acid or 4667 mg/d of Super CitriMax (patented extract of Garcinia cambogia) considered safe. |
History and traditional use of Garcinia Cambogia
Garcinia Cambogia, an exotic fruit also known as the Malabar tamarind, has a rich and varied history of medicinal use. Its reputation extends over centuries and beyond geographical borders, enabling it to become a key player in contemporary health and wellness practices.
Traditional use in medicine
In ancient medicinal practices, particularly in Indian Ayurvedic medicine, Garcinia Cambogia was highly valued for its astringent and digestive qualities. These unique properties have led to its traditional use to promote better digestion and to act as a remedy for various gastrointestinal disorders. Ayurvedic practitioners believed that this fruit could balance the doshas (body energies) and improve digestive health in general.
In addition to its role in Ayurvedic medicine, Garcinia Cambogia was also used in other traditional systems of medicine in Asia and Africa. In these regions, it was commonly used to treat problems such as constipation, haemorrhoids, menstrual pain and various skin conditions. This wide range of uses underlines the versatility of Garcinia Cambogia as a natural remedy.
Evolution to contemporary use
With the advent of globalisation and growing interest in natural remedies, Garcinia Cambogia has gained considerable popularity in the Western world. Today, it is best known as a dietary supplement for weight loss. This transformation in its use is largely due to its ability to suppress the appetite and inhibit the production of fat in the body.
Scientific research has highlighted the hydroxycitric acid (HCA) present in the fruit, which plays a crucial role in its effectiveness as a weight loss aid. HCA helps reduce appetite and prevents the conversion of carbohydrates into fat, making Garcinia Cambogia a potential ally for those looking to lose weight naturally. However, it is important to note that studies on the efficacy and safety of Garcinia Cambogia are varied, and the use of this supplement should be done with caution and ideally under the supervision of a health professional.
What are the active ingredients in Garcinia Cambogia?
Garcinia Cambogia is mainly composed of hydroxycitric acid (HCA), a powerful inhibitor of lipogenesis, along with other components beneficial to health and weight management.
Hydroxycitric acid (HCA)
Garcinia Cambogia, a tropical plant renowned for its potential benefits in weight loss, owes its properties mainly to a component called hydroxycitric acid (HCA). Present in the skin of the fruit, HCA is recognised for its role in reducing appetite and blocking the production of fat in the body.
The effectiveness of AHC is based on its ability to inhibit a key enzyme, citrate lyase, which is responsible for converting carbohydrates into fat. By limiting this conversion, AHC helps to reduce the accumulation of body fat. It also appears to increase serotonin levels in the brain. This neurotransmitter plays a crucial role in regulating mood and appetite, and its increase could therefore reduce cravings and promote a more rapid feeling of satiety at mealtimes.
Studies have shown that AHC may also have other health benefits, such as reducing levels of bad cholesterol (LDL) and slightly improving metabolism. However, it is important to note that these effects may vary from person to person, and that the use of Garcinia Cambogia as a dietary supplement should be approached with caution and ideally under medical supervision.
Other important ingredients
In addition to hydroxycitric acid, Garcinia Cambogia contains other components that may contribute to its health benefits. These include various vitamins, minerals and fibre. These elements may play a role in the general support of metabolism and digestive health.
The fibre present in Garcinia Cambogia can help regulate intestinal transit and promote a feeling of satiety, which is beneficial for weight control. The vitamins and minerals, although present in small quantities, contribute to the proper functioning of many essential bodily processes.
However, it is crucial to stress that Garcinia Cambogia, although a natural supplement, is not without potential side effects. It may interact with certain medications and is not recommended for pregnant or breast-feeding women. As with any dietary supplement, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional before starting a Garcinia Cambogia-based treatment, particularly for people with pre-existing medical conditions.
What are the benefits of Garcinia?
- Reduces appetite. Garcinia increases serotonin levels in the body. This chemical helps reduce hunger pangs.
- Boosts mood. Higher serotonin levels considerably improve mood.
- Prevents the formation of fat. The active ingredient HCA blocks the enzyme that the body uses to form fat. It also reduces the production of bad cholesterol.
- Reduces the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. The fruit can help lower blood sugar levels. However, we recommend that diabetics do not consume Garcinia.
Effects on metabolism
Garcinia Cambogia is often touted for its potential effects on metabolism. Preliminary studies suggest that this fruit may play a role in improving fat metabolism. This translates into an increased capacity of the body to convert stored fat into energy, which can be a major asset in weight management programmes.
In addition, some reports indicate that Garcinia Cambogia may help reduce LDL (‘bad’) cholesterol levels and increase HDL (‘good’) cholesterol levels. This suggests a potentially positive impact on cardiovascular health, reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke.
Other health benefits
In addition to its effects on weight loss and metabolism, Garcinia Cambogia has other potential health benefits. Preliminary research indicates that this fruit may possess anti-inflammatory properties. These properties could play a role in combating various inflammatory conditions, such as arthritis, by reducing inflammation and pain.
Garcinia Cambogia is also rich in antioxidants. These compounds play a crucial role in protecting the body against damage caused by free radicals, which are unstable molecules that can damage cells and contribute to ageing and various diseases. Regular consumption of Garcinia Cambogia may therefore help to strengthen the body’s natural defences and promote improved overall health.
It is important to note that, although these benefits are promising, they require further research to be fully validated. Current studies are mainly preliminary, and a deeper understanding of the effects of Garcinia Cambogia on human health is needed. Consumers are therefore encouraged to consult a healthcare professional before incorporating this supplement into their daily regimen.
How should Garcinia be taken?
It is usually sold in capsule form containing at least 50%hydroxycitric acid (HCA ) extract.
The recommended doses are divided into three doses, and should be taken 30 to 60 minutes before breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Doses are based on body weight. It is important to consult the leaflet and seek advice from a health professional.
What restrictions does the ANSM place on Garcinia?
The French National Agency for the Safety of Medicines and Health Products (ANSM) has established strict regulations concerning the use of certain plants and active substances in slimming preparations sold in pharmacies. This decision, effective since 10 May 2012, follows an in-depth investigation revealing worrying practices in the prescription of magistral preparations for weight loss.
The ban concerns three specific plants: Garcinia Cambogia, the green fruit of Citrus aurantium L. ssp aurantium, and the Hoodia gordonii plant. These plants, which until now have been used in preparations to promote weight loss, have not been shown to be sufficiently effective and may present health risks. In addition, 26 active substances, some of which had been diverted from their marketing authorisation (MA) or were being monitored for potential side effects, are also banned in this context. These substances include veterinary medicines, anxiolytics, antidiabetics and antidepressants.
However, the ANSM specifies that some of these active substances may still be used in specific contexts, in particular for children under the age of 12 or adults suffering from severe swallowing disorders. These exceptions are designed to allow the necessary dosage and galenical adaptations for these patient groups, without encouraging their use for weight loss.
The aim of this measure is to prevent the inappropriate and potentially dangerous use of these substances and plants for weight loss. ANSM stresses the importance of a comprehensive, individualised approach to weight reduction, under the supervision of healthcare professionals. Prescribing magistral preparations for weight loss is therefore not recommended, reflecting a cautious approach focused on patient safety.
These bans reinforce the need for responsible and well-informed management of weight loss, avoiding the use of quick and potentially risky solutions. They are part of a wider framework to prevent the risks associated with the use of health products for unapproved purposes, affirming ANSM’s commitment to protecting public health.
Warnings
This fruit should not be consumed
- diabetics, as it lowers blood sugar levels
- alzheimer’s patients, as it increases acetylcholine levels.
- by people taking anti-diabetic medication, including pills and insulin
- pain medication
- treatment for psychiatric disorders
No side effects have been reported to date, but for safety reasons, pregnant women and children are advised not to take it without prior medical advice.
Source of information:
- https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/garcinia-cambogia
- ANSM press release – 10/05/2012
