Western Ghats Kokum Foundation - Organic Farming Association of ...

(HCA), which is the active ingredient in this and many other currently marketed weight loss
products. However, it has not yet been shown, in controlled studies published in the
scientific literature, to be effective in weight loss in humans.
A decoction of the fruit rind is given in rheumatism and bowel complaints. The
organic acid known as (-) HCA is the primary acid found in the fruit and rind of Garcinia. The
fruit rind and extracts of G. cambogia are used in many traditional recipes. In the Ayurvedic
system of medicine, some flavors are said to activate digestion and are used as purgatives,
in the treatment of worms and parasites, tumours and dysentery. Neither acute nor chronic
toxicity is reported with regular consumption of Garcinia products as either food or tonics.
These products have been used routinely in the coastal areas of South Asia for centuries and
they continue to be consumed in large amounts.
Garcinia cambogia fruit have been reported to have around 20-30% of hydroxy
citric acid lactone along with tracer amount of citric acid. HCA inhibits lipogenesis, lowers
the production of cholesterol and fatty acids, increases the production of glycogen in the
liver, suppresses appetite, and increases the body's production of heat by activating the
process of thermogenesis. Potential dietary supplement for weight loss and appetite
control. Garcinia cambogia works by suppressing appetite and inhibiting lipid synthesis.
This latter mechanism is based on the theory that inhibition of lipid biosynthesis or
enhance lipid metabolism interfere with mechanisms that produce and maintain obesity.
Specifically, HCA prevents the enzyme from catalyzing the cleavage of citrate to acetyl
coenzyme A and oxaloacetate. This inhibition significantly reduces the synthesis of
triglycerides, cholesterol and body fat, without diminishing energy production. The result
is significant loss of body weight in animals made obese genetically and by hypothalamic
lesions. Animal studies demonstrate that fatty acid and cholesterol synthesis in liver are
significantly inhibited after oral administration of HCA.
Garcinia cowa
The tree was located in one of the farms of State Agriculture Department in
Cannanore district of Kerala probably introduced from elsewhere. The tree is huge
compared to Kodampuli. Though the resemblance is there, the leaves of this tree are large
and the fruits are smooth hanging, orange colour both outside and inside, having the size of
Kokum fruits but highly acidic. The tree is a hermaphrodite one with 7 anthers compared to
Kodampuli. The identification as G. cowa needs verification. The tree is reported to be
common in Eastern India and the Andamans. Fruits are used for making jams and
preserves. A yellow dye is also obtained from the bark. A resin is also obtained and is used as
a varnish for metallic surfaces. Tender leaves are eaten as a vegetable.
Garcinia gummi-gutta (L.) Robson
Local names: Murugana huli, Upage mara, (Kannada) kodampuli/kodapuli, distributed
from Konkan to Southwards in the Western Ghats upto Nilgiris
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Resource Book on Kokum (Garcinia indica Choisy)
Western Ghats Kokum Foundation, Panaji - Goa