About this ingredient
Ingredients
Hydroxycitric Acid (HCA) is a naturally occurring organic acid found in the fruit rind of Garcinia cambogia (also known as Malabar tamarind). Garcinia extracts used in dietary supplements may be standardized to a specific percentage of HCA. The exact HCA concentration, extract source, form, and additional ingredients vary by manufacturer.
Hydroxycitric Acid (HCA) is a naturally occurring compound found primarily in the rind of Garcinia cambogia, a tropical fruit native to parts of India and Southeast Asia. HCA is one of the main compounds responsible for the interest in Garcinia cambogia supplements.
HCA is commonly provided through Garcinia cambogia fruit or fruit-rind extracts. Dietary supplement products may specify the amount of Garcinia extract and the percentage or milligram amount of HCA supplied per serving. For example, labels in the NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database include Garcinia extracts standardized to 50% or 60% HCA, demonstrating that concentrations can vary between products.
HCA is frequently included in weight-management, appetite-focused, metabolism, and botanical nutritional formulas. However, scientific evidence regarding Garcinia cambogia and weight loss is mixed, with some studies suggesting a modest effect and others finding little or no effect.
Consumers should also consider safety when purchasing HCA-containing products. NCCIH reports cases of liver injury associated with Garcinia cambogia products, although serious reactions appear to be uncommon. Garcinia products may also interact with certain medicines. People taking medication, pregnant or breastfeeding individuals, or those with medical conditions should consult a healthcare professional before use.