Gambooge

Gambooge is a tropical fruit native to Indonesia and Southeast Asia. It is also known as Garcinia gummi-gutta, Malabar tamarind, and brindleberry. The fruit is yellowish in color and resembles a small pumpkin. It is renowned for its culinary, medicinal, and industrial uses.

Culinary Uses

Gambooge is widely used in South Indian cuisine and Thai cuisine. The fruit's rind and extracts are a common ingredient in dishes such as curry due to its sour taste. It is also used in fish curry as it provides a tangy flavor. In addition, the dried fruit rind is used as a condiment in pickles and chutneys.

Medicinal Uses

Gambooge has been used in traditional Ayurvedic medicine for centuries. It is believed to promote digestion and to treat various ailments such as ulcers, arthritis, and rheumatism. The fruit's rind contains hydroxycitric acid (HCA), which is studied for its potential use in weight loss supplements.

Industrial Uses

The extract of Gambooge is used in the cosmetic industry. It is also used in the production of dyes and pigments due to its yellow color.

Cultivation

Gambooge trees thrive in tropical climates. They are primarily grown in Southeast Asia, India, and parts of Africa. The trees are evergreen and can reach up to 20 meters in height. The fruit is harvested during the rainy season.

See Also

• Garcinia
• Garcinia cambogia
• Garcinia indica