Synonyms: 

Cambogia gummi-gutta L.

Garcinia affinis Wight & Arn.

Systematic Position

Kingdom:  Plantae

Phylum: Tracheophyta

Order: Malpighiales Juss. ex Bercht. & J. Presl

Family: Clusiaceae

Native: South Asia and Southeast Asia

Common Names

English – Gambooge, Malabar Tamarind

Malayalam – കുടംപുളി

Description: 

Garcinia gummi-gutta is a tropical species of Garcinia native to South Asia and Southeast Asia. Common names include Garcinia cambogia (a former scientific name), as well as brindle berry, and Malabar tamarind. The fruit looks like a small pumpkin and is green to pale yellow in color.

Habitat:  Thrives in tropical climates

Distribution: Western Ghats and Sri Lanka

Uses: In culinary purposes, traditional medicine, and as a potential aid for weight loss. The fruit rinds have antioxidant and anticholinesterase activities, and are used as a flavoring agent and in traditional medicine to treat gastrointestinal ailments.