Garcinia (Garcinia cambogia)

Garcinia Cambogia: Clinical Uses

Assists in limiting the body's capacity to accumulate fat.
Supports weight management by helping to control appetite.
Contributes to lowering levels of triglycerides in the blood.
Initiates a process within the body known as thermogenesis.

Excess weight and obesity are widely recognized as global health issues with significant consequences. While many individuals are concerned about their physical appearance, the accumulation of excessive fat is linked to several serious long-term health problems, including diabetes and atherosclerosis. Garcinia cambogia has emerged as an innovative ingredient in the realm of nutraceutical dietary supplements, serving as a source of hydroxycitric acid (HCA), a compound known for its potential to aid in weight reduction. Research involving animals, in vitro studies, and human consumption has generated considerable interest in the use of Garcinia cambogia. Extracts from this plant appear to be quite safe, based on the ongoing need for safe and effective treatments and medicinal substances, the increasing prevalence of diabetes and pre-diabetes, as well as elevated lipid levels. Garcinia cambogia extracts exhibit multiple modes of action concerning carbohydrate and lipid metabolism (as referenced by Li et al., 2008). Furthermore, there has been growing interest in recent years regarding foods that can help manage blood sugar levels.

Botanical Information: Botanical Name: Garcinia cambogia Family: Guttiferae Plant Parts Utilized: Fruit rind

Mechanism of Action in Weight Management: Modern applications of Garcinia cambogia are based on the understanding that carbohydrates in our bodies are broken down into glucose, which is then stored as glycogen. When glycogen stores reach their capacity, any surplus glucose is converted into fat and cholesterol. Garcinia cambogia extract, rich in hydroxycitric acid (HCA), is believed to hinder the body's conversion of glucose into fat and cholesterol by inhibiting specific enzymatic processes. The resulting increase in glycogen storage may significantly help in reducing food cravings, suppressing appetite, and promoting weight loss. Several studies involving human subjects have indicated the weight-reducing properties of Garcinia.

Clinical Investigations:

A study utilizing a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled design was conducted to assess the impact of Garcinia caplets on individuals with obesity. The study included 110 participants aged 18 to 60 years, both men and women, who met the criteria for obesity with a BMI ranging from > 25 Kg/m2 to 35 Kg/m2. Participants received one caplet twice daily for a duration of 4 months. Assessments were based on parameters such as BMI and mid-axillary skin fold thickness. The study concluded that the obese individuals treated with Garcinia caplets showed a reduction in BMI and skin fold thickness starting from the second month, with significant improvements observed in the third and fourth months.
Another randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial demonstrated that Garcinia cambogia extract led to a reduction in abdominal fat in individuals with a visceral fat area of ≥ 90 cm2. The dosage administered was 1000mg of the extract per day for a period of 12 weeks (as per Current Therapeutic Research, volume 64, no. 8, September/October 2003, by Kohsuke Hayamizu et al.).

Safety Profile: To date, no case studies or reports have indicated direct adverse effects associated with HCA. The chemical structure, mechanism of action, long history of use of Garcinia/HCA, and extensive scientific evidence have demonstrated a "no observed adverse effect level (NOAEL)" at doses up to 2800 mg/day, suggesting its safety for human consumption.

Recommended Dosage: 1200 – 1500 mg / day / adult

Available Product Forms:

Garcinia cambogia extract with 50% HCA, 60% HCA, and 65% HCA concentrations.
Garcinia cambogia extract with 60% HCA that is 100% water soluble.