Source:
Garcinia cambogia (Hydroxycitric Acid) - is an exotic fruit that grows on a medium size tree indigenous to to the evergreen forest in Southern India.

Traditional uses:
The herb has been used for centuries in traditional Hindu medicine for the treatment of chronic indigestion, stomach disorders, rheumatism, etc.

Physiology:

The active ingredient, hydroxyl citric acid (HCA), is extracted from the rind of the fruit as a substance to promote weight loss. Studies have shown that HCA decreases the activity of an essential enzyme in metabolism of fat. The conversion of carbohydrates into fat requires an enzyme called citrate lyase. HCA temporarily reduces the action of this enzyme, blocking the production of fatty acids making less fat available for cellular storage.

Clinical Studies:
Studies concerning Hydroxycitric acid (HCA) found in Garcinia cambogia suggests that HCA may be a useful weight loss aid. As mentioned above, the HCA reduces the action of citrate lyase blocking the conversion of carbohydrates into fat. Cheema-Dhadli S, Harlperin ML, Leznoff CC. Inhibition of enzymes which interact with citrate by (-)hydroxycitrate and 1,2,3,-tricarboxybenzene. Eur J Biochem 1973;38:98–10. Animal research indicates that HCA suppresses appetite and induces weight loss. Greenwood MRC, Cleary MP, Gruen R, et al. Effect of (-)-hydroxycitrate on development of obesity in the Zucker obese rat. Am J Physiol 1981;240:E72–8. Sullivan AC, Triscari J. Metabolic regulation as a control for lipid disorders. Am J Clin Nutr 1977;30:767–76.

Modern day uses:
Today, Garcinia cambogia is is prescribed today by physicians and herbal specialist for the following positive effects:

• Appetite suppressant
• Inhibits lipogenesis (the conversion of proteins or carbohydrates to fat).
• Lowers the production of fatty acids and cholesterol
  

Precautions and/or adverse effects:
Individuals with preexisting medical conditions should consult with their physician particularly if they are taking prescription or over-the-counter-medications or supplements. Women who are pregnant or breast feeding and children should also consult with there physician prior to taking any new supplements. There has been no reported significant side effects associated with the use of Garcinia cambogia at the time of this writing.

Black cohosh
(Cimicufuga racemosa)