Garcinia cambogia is native to India and Southeast Asia. The fruit pulp and rind have long been used in Asian countries as a condiment and food preservative. The rind contains a chemical called hydroxycitric acid , which has been studied for its effect on appetite.

The fruit rind contains a chemical called hydroxycitric acid. HCA used in dietary supplements usually comes from garcinia. It might prevent fat storage, control appetite, and increase exercise endurance.