Garcinia gummi-gutta (L.) N. Robson (synonym G. cambogia (Gaertn.) Desr.), a native species of Southeastern India, is a versatile plant with a history in culinary applications, medicines, and industrial uses. It has traditionally been used to treat rheumatism, constipation, and menstrual irregularities and to preserve and flavor food and drink. The healing powers of G. gummi-gutta are largely ascribed to its content of hydroxycitric acid (HCA)Hydroxycitric acid (HCA), garcinol, and xanthonesXanthones. These compounds are responsible for the antiobesity, antioxidantAntioxidants, antidiabeticAntidiabetic, antimicrobialAntimicrobial, antiulcer, hepatoprotectiveHepatoprotective, and hypolipidemic activities. Recent scientific investigations have substantiated many of the medicinal benefits of G. gummi-gutta and triggered greater interest in the functional food applications of the species.