Abstract
The genus Garcinia (Clusiaceae) is extensively distributed across Asia, particularly in Malaysia, Myanmar, India, China, and Indonesia, where it holds significant traditional and cultural value. In addition to its edible fruits, various plant parts—including the bark, leaves, and wood—are extensively utilised in traditional medicine for treating fever, jaundice, inflammation, pain, and gastrointestinal disorders. Despite the widespread occurrence of Garcinia species, including several underutilised varieties, comprehensive data on their distribution, traditional applications, phytochemical composition, and therapeutic properties remain limited.
This review aims to provide a consolidated overview of Garcinia species, focusing on their geographical distribution, traditional uses, phytochemical profiling, therapeutic potential and Garcinia-based nutraceutical products.
Notably, Garcinia exhibits significant pharmacological activities beyond its established role in obesity management, including wound healing, antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, antidiarrheal, anticancer, neuroprotective, anti-ulcer, antinociceptive, analgesic, antipyretic, anti-HIV, antitubercular, and hair follicle-stimulating effects. The development of Garcinia-based nutraceuticals has been propelled by these therapeutic properties, with advancements in nanotechnology and hydrogel formulations enhancing the bioavailability and efficacy of active compounds. Certain phyto-constituents have been associated with cytotoxicity, necessitating further studies to mitigate potential toxic compounds.
Integrating Garcinia extracts with traditional medicine has demonstrated improved therapeutic outcomes, particularly in anti-obesity interventions. However, very little is explored with scientific validation of phytochemical ingredients from the genus Garcinia. Advanced research is highly essential to harness the medicinal value of the Garcinia genus. Expanding studies to validate the ethnobotanical know-how regarding the genus will lead to development of novel medications, unlocking its complete pharmacological potential.
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P., K.N., Kaprakkaden, A., Ali, A. et al. Nutraceutical potential of genus Garcinia: A comprehensive review. Phytochem Rev (2025). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11101-025-10155-0
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