Evidence supporting the use of: Garcinia
For the health condition: Appetite (excessive)
Synopsis
Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2
Garcinia cambogia, a tropical fruit also known as Malabar tamarind, has gained popularity as a natural appetite suppressant and weight management aid. The active compound, hydroxycitric acid (HCA), is believed to contribute to these effects by inhibiting the enzyme ATP citrate lyase, which plays a role in fat production, and by increasing serotonin levels in the brain, which may lead to reduced appetite. Several small-scale randomized controlled trials have investigated garcinia’s effect on appetite and body weight. Some studies report modest reductions in appetite and slight weight loss compared to placebo, but others show little to no effect. A 2011 meta-analysis (Onakpoya et al., Journal of Obesity) concluded that while garcinia extracts may cause short-term weight loss, the effect size is small and clinical relevance is uncertain. The evidence for appetite suppression specifically is limited and inconsistent.
Traditional use of garcinia in Ayurvedic medicine has centered more on digestive health and as a culinary ingredient, rather than directly treating excessive appetite. Overall, scientific evidence does suggest a potential, albeit modest, appetite-suppressing effect, but results are variable and not robust. Safety profiles are generally favorable for short-term use, though long-term safety and efficacy remain unclear. Based on current research, garcinia can be said to have scientific—yet weak—support for use in excessive appetite.
Other health conditions supported by garcinia
Appetite (excessive)Cholesterol (high)
Diabetes
Fat Metabolism (poor)
Weight Loss
Products containing garcinia
Nature's Sunshine Garcinia Combination
Nature's Sunshine Stixated
Nature's Sunshine Ultra Therm CF