Garcinia gummi-gutta may be a tropical species of Garcinia. Common names include gamboge tree (a former scientific name), also as brindleberry, Malabar tamarind, and kudam puli (pot tamarind). This fruit resembles a small pumpkin and is green to straw in color. Garcinia cambogia, a tropical fruit also known as the Malabar tamarind, is a popular weight-loss supplement. People say it blocks your body’s ability to make fat and it puts the brakes on your appetite. Loss of excess weight could help maintain blood sugar and cholesterol levels in check, too.