What is garcinia cambogia extract?

According to WebMD, garcinia cambogia extract is a supplement derived from the rind of the garcinia plant; it is used to block fat storage with unknown effectiveness. A compound called hydroxycitric acid potentially assists untrained women with exercise stamina; however, it can cause nausea, headache and digestive issues.

Women's Health magazine and WebMD both warn that the safety of garcinia cambogia is unknown. Women's Health notes that the supplement is not regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Independent tests of various garcinia cambogia brands do not show consistent quality and quantity. Furthermore, large dosages have caused toxicity and atrophy in the testicles of mice.