Kudampuli: Benefits. Uses, Side Effects and More

Reviewed By Experts

Kudampuli, scientifically known as Garcinia cambogia, is a tropical fruit that has come into limelight in recent years. The fruit comes with numerous health benefits. Native to Asia and Africa, Malabar tamarind, or kudampuli is a small, greenish-yellow fruit that has been used in traditional medicine for centuries. [1] In the Ayurvedic Nighantu, kudampuli for vrikshamla is mentioned as a vata and kapha dosha pacifying dravya. In this detailed article, we will explore the benefits, uses, side effects, and more associated with Malabar tamarind or kudampuli.

Other names of kudampuli

1. Scientific name: Garcinia gummi-gutta
2. Kudampuli in English (also called as): Tamarind, Tamarindus indica, Malabar Tamarind, Brindle Berry
3. Tamil-speaking areas of Sri Lanka and India: Goraka

Nutritional value of kudampuli

Here are some of the nutrients present in 100g of raw tamarind (Garcinia gummi-gutta). ^[6]

Benefits of Kudampuli

1. Weight Loss:

One of the most well-known kudampuli benefits is its potential to aid in weight loss. It contains hydroxy citric acid (HCA), which helps curb appetite and inhibit the formation of fat cells in the body. [2] It thus helps maintain overall health by balancing all the doshas due to its samadoshaha and samagnischa properties. These help clean fat tissue resulting in weight loss. 

2. Nutrient Value:

Kudampuli serves as a great food supplement as it is rich in a variety of vitamins as well as carbohydrates such as glucose, fructose, arabinose, and galactose. [2]

3. Cholesterol Reduction:

Kudampuli also has a hypolipidemic effect and can help lower the level of LDL (bad) cholesterol, which can contribute to better heart health. [4]

4. Digestive Health:

Traditional medicine has used kudampuli to treat digestive issues and acts as a purgative. It may help regulate bowel movements and promote a healthy digestive system. [3] This is primarily because it carries the three Rasas of Amala, Katu, and Kashai that enhance metabolism in general. They also help clear and unclog channels and support protein metabolism by enhancing Agni in the Mamsa Dhatu. 

5. Antimicrobial Property:

It is a natural antimicrobial source capable of preventing the growth of harmful foodborne pathogens. It is also considered a herbal food preservative that is both non-toxic and free from synthetic additives. [4]

6. Antioxidant and Anticancer Properties:

It exhibits anticancer effects by inhibiting the growth and spread of cancer cells and also has antioxidants that help combat free radicals, reducing oxidative stress and potentially contributing to improved overall health and protection against chronic diseases. [4]

7. Other Properties:

The leaf extract of kudampuli demonstrates multiple beneficial effects, including anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, and anti-cancer properties. 

The fruit extracts have been found to be effective in various therapeutic applications, such as serving as an astringent, demulcent, and anti-rheumatic agent. [3] The Agneya property pacifies Kapha in all seven Dhatus, as well as Samana Vata and Udana Vata. 

Uses of kudampuli

Culinary Use:

Kudampuli is a common ingredient in South Indian and Southeast Asian cuisine, especially in dishes from Kerala, India. It imparts a tangy flavor to curries, fish dishes, and pickles. [4] This is especially because it helps sharpen the taste buds by clearing away ama. 

Dietary Supplements:

Kudampuli extract is available in supplement form, often marketed as a weight loss aid. These supplements are usually taken in capsule or tablet form. [4]

Traditional Medicine:

In Ayurvedic and traditional Indian medicine, kudampuli has been used to treat various health conditions, including delayed menstruation, diarrhea, hemorrhoids, dysentery, ulcer, rheumatism, and heart complaints. [4]

Weight Management:

Many people use kudampuli supplements as part of their weight loss regimen, either to help reduce appetite or boost metabolism. [4]

Recommended dosage of kudampuli

Here are some things to know when considering the recommended dosage of kudampuli. 

1. It is crucial to consult a healthcare professional for the dosage limits, as individual needs may vary. 
2. Typically, kudampuli supplements are available in various forms, like extracts and capsules. 
3. Manufacturers may provide specific dosage recommendations on their product labels, and it is important to adhere to these guidelines. 
4. Additionally, moderation is key, as excessive intake may lead to adverse effects. 

Side Effects and Precautions

While the kudampuli tree offers potential health benefits, it is essential to know about the potential side effects and precautions.

Instances of liver injury linked to the consumption of Garcinia cambogia products have been documented, albeit infrequently. Although most cases were not severe, some did exhibit severe outcomes.

Apart from this, kudampuli side effects like headaches, nausea, diarrhea, and gastrointestinal discomfort have been associated with Garcinia cambogia. 

The safety of using Garcinia cambogia during pregnancy or breastfeeding also remains inadequately understood. [5]

FAQs

Conclusion

Kudampuli is a tropical fruit with immense health benefits, including weight loss support, appetite suppression, and improved metabolism. It has been used in traditional medicine and culinary traditions for centuries. However, it is essential to exercise caution, be aware of potential side effects. 

Disclaimer

This article is written from a health and wellness perspective and is not medical advice. Kindly seek the help of a certified medical practitioner before initiating any treatment.

References:

1. Malabar Tamarind (Kudampuli) and Wild Relatives in the Western Ghats
2. Quality Evaluation of Dietary Supplements for Weight Loss Based on Garcinia cambogia
3. Reproductive biology of Malabar tamarind (Garcinia gummi-gutta (L.) Rob.: An endemic, medicinal and spice plant from Western Ghats.
4. Phytochemical Analysis and Antimicrobial Activity of Ethanolic Extract of Dried Fruit Rind of Garcinia gummi-gutta
5. Garcinia Cambogia
6. Tamarinds, raw