Tamarind, anti-depressants may lead to toxicity in body: Study

Previous studies have shown that garcinia cambogia may, in fact, increase the levels of serotonin -- a neurotransmitter. New research found that taking the supplement in combination with anti-depressants known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), which also cause serotonin levels to rise, could lead to serotonin toxicity."People who are taking SSRIs should not use garcinia cambogia at least until further research is done," said D Robert Hendrickson, a toxicologist at Oregon Health and Sciences University.

In India, garcinia cambogia is better known as Malabar tamarind. This fruit originated in Indonesia, but is grown and cultivated along the western ghats of Kerala. Sri Lanka and Malaysia are also well acquainted with the garcinia cambogia. The hydroxycitric acid (HCA) compound in the fruit is touted as a fat-burning, metabolism-boosting, appetite-suppressing weight-loss product.