WO2010128949A1

WO2010128949A1 - A nutraceutical composition

Info

Publication number: WO2010128949A1
Application number: PCT/SG2009/000166
Authority: WO
Inventors: Pichaet Wiriyachitra
Original assignee: Asian Phytoceuticals Public Company Limited; Axia Ip Holding Pte Ltd
Priority date: 2009-05-08
Filing date: 2009-05-08
Publication date: 2010-11-11

Abstract

A nutraceutical composition including an extract from a fruit of Garcinia mangostana L. and a predetermined concentration of hydroxycitric acid. The concentration of the extract from the fruit of Garcinia mangostana L. is substantially between 1% and 99% by weight of the nutraceutical composition and the predetermined concentration of hydroxycitric acid is substantially between 1% and 99% by weight. The hydroxycitric acid can be provided by an extract from the fruit of Garcinia atroviridis or Garcmia cambogia, and/or other natural or synthetic sources. The extract from the fruit of Garcinia mangostana L. can be obtained from a fruit portion that includes the aril part. The nutraceutical composition can be included in a food product or a beverage or a component of one of a food product or a beverage. When consumed, the nutraceutical composition aids weight loss or weight control. In addition, when consumed, the nutraceutical composition stimulates the immune system, for instance, by inducing increased production of lnterleukin-2.

Description

A NUTRACEUTICAL COMPOSITION

Technology Field

The present disclosure relates generally to nutraceutical compositions that include extracts from the fruit of Garcinia m.angostana L. More specifically, embodiments presented in the present disclosure relate to nutraceutical compositions having an extract from Garcinia mangostana L. and a predetermined concentration of hydroxycitric acid, as well as health related benefits associated with such nutraceutical compositions and processes for preparing such nutraceutical compositions.

Background

Garcinia is a plant genus of the family Clusiaceae, which is native to Asia. Australia, tropical and southern Africa, and Polynesia. It is widely accepted that there are between approximately 50 and 250 taxa of species of Garcinia. Many species of Garcinia have fruit with edible arils. One of the best-known species of Garcinia is Garcinia mangostana L., which is commonly known as purple mangosteen or mangosteen.

The mangosteen tree {Garcinia mangostana L. tree) has been cultivated for a considerable time in tropical areas of the world. The mangosteen tree is a slow-growing, smooth evergreen tree with a typical height ranging from 5 to 25 meters. The mangosteen tree typically bears fruit when between 6 to 20 years old, and can continue to yield fruit for up to approximately 100 years. The mangosteen fruit is round and typically has a dark-purple to red-purple color when ripe. The mangosteen fruit has an outer pericarp or rind, and an inner edible pulp or aril. Each mangosteen fruit typically weighs between 75 and 120 grams,. The edible pulp or aril of the mangosteen fruit typically has between two and five oblong edible seeds.

The mangosteen tree has conventionally served several different purposes. The timber of the mangosteen tree has been used as building materials and furniture. The pericarp of the mangosteen fruit has a composition of pectins, tannins, resins, and a yellow latex, and has been used for tanning and dyeing. The mangosteen rind, leaves, and bark are also traditionally used in folk medicine, particularly in areas where the mangosteen tree grows indigenously. Several constituent compounds or active compounds of the mangosteen fruit (otherwise known as the fruit of Garcinia mangostana L.) have been isolated and studied. Most of the active compounds isolated from the mangosteen fruit belong to a class of phytochemicals known as Xanthones. Xanthones are biologically active compounds that have been the subject of a number of pharmacological and chemical studies. A xanthone is an organic compound with a molecular formula Of Ci₃HsO₂. The chemical structure of a xanthone has a central core that forms the basis of a variety of the active compounds from the mangosteen fruit. This central core is also known as mangostin. The mangosteen fruit is one of the most plentiful natural sources of xanthones. Preliminary pharmacological studies have suggested that xanthones obtained from the mangosteen fruit provide a number of possible health benefits. However, while suggestive of numerous health benefits of xanthones obtained from the mangosteen fruit, results obtained from most of such preliminary pharmacological studies have yet to be substantially conclusive.

Other species of Garcinia include Garcinia cambogia and Garcinia atroviridis. Garcinia cambogia is a diminutive purple fruit native to Southeast Asia and India. Garcinia atroviridis is commonly known as Som Khaek in Thailand, where it is indigenous. An active ingredient of the fruits of both Garcinia cambogia and Garcinia atroviridis is hydroxycitric acid (HCA). HCA is the principal acid found in the rinds of the fruits of both Garcinia cambogia and Garcinia atroviridis. HCA has been traditionally used for centuries throughout Southeast Asia as a food preservative, flavoring agent, and carminative. While extracts from Garcinia cambogia and Garcinia atroviridis have been suggested for use as a weight loss or weight control aid, there is to date inconclusive evidence with human patients as to substantive effectiveness of extracts from either Garcinia cambogia or Garcinia atroviridis for this use.

While preliminary pharmacological studies have suggested that Garcinia may contribute to certain health benefits, concrete evidence of such health benefits has yet to materialize. In addition, there is a lack of understanding as to possible combinations of active compounds obtained from different plants of the Garcinia species, and to the possible health benefits that such novel combinations may effect. There is, in the nutraceutical art, a lack of nutraceutical compositions that are capable of producing consistent and reliable health benefits, and of methods for producing such nutraceutical compositions. Summary

In accordance with a first aspect of the present disclosure, there is disclosed a nutraceutical composition comprising a predetermined concentration of an extract from a fruit of a Garcinia mangostcma L. plant, and a predetermined concentration of hydroxycitric acid.

In accordance with a second aspect of the present disclosure, there is disclosed a method for formulating a nutraceutical composition comprising providing at least a part of a fruit of the Garcinia mangostcma L. plant, using a solvent to obtain an extract from the at least a part of the fruit of the Garcinia mangostcma L. plant, and mixing the extract from the at least a part of the fruit of the Garcinia mangostcma L. plant with a predetermined concentration of hydroxycitric acid.

In accordance with a third aspect of the present disclosure, there is disclosed a use of an extract from part of a fruit of a Garcinia mangostcma L. plant, in combination with a predetermined concentration of hydroxycitric acid, in the manufacture of a nutraceutical composition for at least one of immune system stimulation and weight control. ^■

In accordance with a fourth aspect of the present disclosure, there is disclosed a nutraceutical composition having only a predetermined concentration of an extract from a fruit of a Garcinia mangostcma L. plant, a predetermined concentration of hydroxycitric acid, and water.

In accordance with a fifth aspect of the present disclosure, there is disclosed a method for formulating a nutraceutical composition for oral administration comprising providing an aril part of a fruit of a Garcinia mangostcma L. plant and using water for obtaining an extract from the aril part of the fruit of the Garcinia mangostcma L. plant. The method further comprises providing a fruit of a Garcinia atroviridis plant, using water for obtaining an extract from the fruit of the Garcinia atroviridis plant, and mixing the extract from the aril part of the fruit of the Garcinia mangostana L. plant with the extract from the fruit of the Garcinia atroviridis plant at a temperature between approximately 55⁰C and approximately 65⁰C to obtain a mixture of approximately 50% to approximately 70% by weight of extract from the aril part of the fruit of the Garcinia mangostana L. plant and approximately 10% to approximately 30% of the extract from the fruit of the Garcinia aslroviridis plant.

In accordance with a sixth aspect of the present disclosure, there is disclosed a method for formulating a substance for consumption by a living organism comprising providing a nutraceutical composition comprising a predetermined concentration of hydroxycitric acid and a predetermined concentration of an extract from at least a part of a fruit of the Garcinia mangos/ana L. plant, the extract including at least one of mangostin and γ- mangostin. The method further comprises adding the nutraceutical composition to a carrier substance, and incorporating the nutritional composition and the carrier substance into at least one from the group of a first individual final product having a first volume, a second individual final product having a second volume different than the first volume, and a final product set.

Detailed Description

The present disclosure relates, to nutraceutical compositions including an extract from the fruit of Garcinia mangostana. L, which is commonly known as a mangosteen fruit, and a predetermined concentration of hydroxycitric acid (HCA). The HCA can be obtained from an extract of the fruit of the Garcinia alroviridis plant. Additionally or alternatively, HCA can also be obtained from an extract from a fruit of a plant of another Garcinia species, such as Garcinia cambogia, Garcinia cowa and Garcinia bicolor. Moreover, the HCA may also be obtained from commercially available salts of hydroxycitric acid derivatives, for example potassium salts, calcium salts, and magnesium salts. The present disclosure also_. relates to techniques or methods for manufacturing or formulating the nutraceutical compositions. In addition, the present disclosure relates to use of the nutraceutical compositions for facilitating or providing specified health benefits when consumed by a living organism, more specifically a human being or an animal.

It will be understood that the details presented herein are used for describing embodiments of the present disclosure, and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure. In the present disclosure, the term "nutraceutical" shall refer to "any compounds or chemicals capable of providing dietary or health benefits when consumed by a living organism". Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meanings as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the relevant art of the present disclosure.

ASPECTS OF PARTICULAR NUTRACEUTICAL COMPOUNDS For the convenience of the reader, the following disclosure includes a general discussion of a Garcinia mangostana L. plant. This is followed by a general discussion of phytochemicals, more specifically xanthones, obtained from the fruit of Garcinia mangostana L, which is also known as the mangosteen fruit. The following disclosure also includes a general discussion of Garcinia atroviridis and Garcinia cambogia, followed by a general discussion of hydroxycitric acid (HCA).^" Particular aspects of various embodiments of the present disclosure are then presented. Embodiments of the present disclosure include nutraceutical compositions, methods or processes for producing or manufacturing such nutraceutical compositions, and specified health benefits of such nutraceutical compositions. It will however be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art that the present disclosure is not limited in scope to the following described nutraceutical compositions, methods for producing or manufacturing such nutraceutical compositions, and specified^' health benefits of such nutraceutical compositions.

General discussion of Garcinia mangostana L. The Garcinia mangostana L. tree (mangosteen tree) is from the family of plants known as Clusiaceae. The mangosteen tree has been cultivated for a considerable time in several tropical areas of the world. The mangosteen tree is a slow-growing, smooth evergreen tree that reaches a height of between 5 to 25 meters. The bark of the mangosteen tree is dark- brown or nearly black, and the inner bark of the mangosteen tree comprises yellow, gummy, bitter latex. The evergreen, short-stalked leaves of the mangosteen tree are ovate- oblong or elliptic in shape, leathery, thick, and are colored a slightly glossy dark-green color on the topside and a dull yellowish-green color on the bottom-side. Flowers of the mangosteen tree are approximately four to five centimeters wide, and may be male or hermaphrodite on the same tree. The male flowers are typically in clusters of three to nine flowers, and found at the branch tips. The male flower has four sepals and four ovate, thick and fleshy petals, and many stamens that bear no pollen. The hermaphrodite flower is borne singly or in pairs at the tips of younger branchlets. Petals of hermaphrodite flowers are typically yellowish-green edged with red, and are quickly shed. The mangosleen tree typically starts bearing fruit when 6 to 20 years old, and can continue to yield fruit for up to 100 years. The mangosteen fruit is round with a diameter of approximately three to eight centimeters, and typically has a dark-purple to red-purple color when ripe. The mangosteen fruit includes an outer rind or pericarp and an inner edible pulp or aril. The rind or pericarp of the mangosteen fruit is typically six to ten millimeters thick, and contains a bitter yellow latex and a purple staining juice. The aril of the mangosteen fruit is generally made up of four to eight segments of off-white, juicy flesh. The mangosteen fruit typically has two to five fully developed seeds, which are oblong in shape and cling to the flesh. After harvest, the mangosteen fruit can generally be stored between 20 to 25 days in a dry, warm, and enclosed storage area. Longer periods of storage can cause the outer skin to toughen and the rind to become rubbery. Generally, ripe mangosteen fruits can keep for three to four weeks in storage at temperatures between 5°C to 13⁰C.

The mangosteen tree has conventionally served purposes such as those mentioned above. Timber from the mangosteen tree has been used as building materials and furniture. The pericarp, which comprises pectins, tannins, resins, and a yellow latex, has been used for tanning and dyeing. The mangosteen rind, leaves, and bark are also traditionally used in folk medicine, particularly in areas where the mangosteen tree grows indigenously. According to literature, the pericarp of the mangosteen fruit can be used as an astringent or in various decoctions for treating catarrh, cystitis, diarrhea, intestinal and skin ailments. The aril of the mangosteen fruit is widely considered to be a delicious food source and can be processed to extract or obtain Garcinia mangostana L. juice (mangosteen juice).

In one process of extracting mangosteen juice, the mangosteen fruit is first either hand picked or picked by mechanical equipment. The mangosteen fruit is then thoroughly cleaned and allowed to ripen before any processing occurs. When ready for processing, the mangosteen fruit is first inspected for spoilage and/or for an excessively green color and hardness. A manual or mechanical separator is then used for processing the mangosteen fruit, whereby the seeds and peel are separated from the juice and pulp. The juice and pulp can be further processed by separating the pulp from the juice through use of filtering equipment. The filtering equipment includes, but is not limited to, a centrifuge decanter, a screen filter, a filter press, reverse osmosis filtration, and any other standard commercial filtration device known to one of ordinary skill in the art. Extracts from the mangosteen fruits (i.e. mangosteen juice), which include phytochemicals, can be obtained from the mangosteen fruit using a variety of solvents. Water can be used as a solvent for obtaining extracts from the mangosteen fruit. It is also possible to use alcohol, or other edible solvents with sufficient polarity, to obtain the extracts from the mangosteen fruit. A class of phytochemicals or active compounds, present in extracts from the mangosteen fruit (fruit of Garcima mangostana) is xanthones.

General discussion of Xanthones

The fruit of Garcinia mangostana L. (mangosteen fruit) contains a large number of naturally occurring xanthones. which are biologically active natural phenols that are found in some plant species.

A xanthone has a molecular formula CnHsO₂. The general structure of a xanthone is:

The chemical structure of xanthone forms the central core of xanthones found in natural sources. Xanthones are formed naturally by a condensation reaction between a phenylpropanoid precursor and two malonyl coenzyme A units. Over 200 xanthones have been identified to date. Pharmacological and chemical studies on xanthones suggest that xanthones possess significant pharmacological properties, for example antidepressant, antitubercular, antimicrobial and antiallergenic activities and actions.

The mangosteen fruit includes a number of naturally occurring xanthones. For example, the rind of a partially ripened mangosteen fruit yields a polyhydroxy-xanthone derivative, which is termed mangostin, and more specifically beta-mangostin. The rind of fully ripened mangosteen fruit includes gartanin, 8-disoxygartanin, and normangostin. In addition, an extract from the pericarp of the mangosteen fruit has been reported to have a free radical scavenging effect. Several studies have suggested that a mangostin derivative called gamma-mangostin directly inhibits cyclooxygenase (COX) enzyme activity in mammal glioma cells. In mammal glioma cells, the COX enzyme catalyzes the first step S in the creation of prostaglandins from a common fatty acid. More specifically, the COX enzyme adds two oxygen molecules to arachidonic acid to begin a set of reactions that ultimately produces a host of free radicals,

There is still to date a lack of concrete evidence or substantive experimental results for many of the purported health benefits of phytochemicals obtained from the mangosteen fruit.

As indicated above, nutraceutical compositions provided by the present disclosure include an extract from the fruit of Garcinia mangoslana L. and a predetermined concentration of HCA. Prior to the present disclosure, there has been no evidence that a nutraceutical composition that includes an extract from the fruit of Garcinia mangostana L. and a predetermined concentration of HCA can stimulate the immune system in a particular manner when consumed by a living organism (e.g., a human being or an animal). More specifically, it has not been shown prior to the present disclosure that the consumption of a nutraceutical composition that includes an extract of Garcinia mangoslana and a predetermined concentration of HCA is capable of stimulating an increased production of Interleukin-2 (IL-2).

In accordance with various embodiments of the disclosure, HCA can be obtained from natural sources, including the fruits of one or more plants within the Garcinia species. More specifically, HCA can be obtained from the fruits of Garcinia atroviridis and/or Garcinia cambogia. Additionally or alternatively, HCA can be obtained from commercially available salts (e.g., potassium salts, calcium salts, and magnesium salts).

General Discussion of Garcinia atroviridis and Garcinia cambogia The Garcinia atroviridis tree is a plant from the family Clusiaceae, and is indigenous to Thailand. Garcinia alroviridis is commonly known as Som Khaek. The Garcinia alroviridis tree is a lofty tree growing to a height of 20 meters. The Garcinia atroviridis tree has a long trunk, smooth gray bark, and drooping branches. The leaves of the Garcinia alroviridis tree are dark green, shiny, long, and narrow. The flowers of the Garcinia atroviridis tree are typically dark red and the fruits are yellow to orange when ripe. The fruits of the Garcinia alroviridis tree are borne singly on end of branches, and are approximately seven to ten centimeters in diameter. The fruits of the Garcinia atroviridis tree are heavy, include a longitudinal groove, and are flattened at the apex. The Garcinia cambogia tree is also a plant from the family Clusiaceae. The Garcinia cambogia tree is a moderate-sized, evergreen tree indigenous to India and parts of Asia including Thailand. The. flowers of the Garcinia cambogia tree are unisexual, sessile and axillary.^' The Garcinia cambogia tree bears relatively small fruits with a yellow to red color. The fruit of Garcinia cambogia has traditionally been used for food preparation and cooking.

There has been an increasing pharmacological interest in the active compounds or phytochemicals present in the fruits of Garcinia atroviridis and Garcinia cambogia. More specifically, there have been pharmacological studies on HCA naturally found in the fruits of both Garcinia atroviridis and Garcinia cambogia.

General Discussion of Hydroxycitric acid (HCA)

HCA is a derivative of citric acid that is found in a variety of tropical plants including plants in the Garcinia species such as Garcinia cambogia, Garcinia atroviridis, Garcinia cowa and Garcinia bicolor. Experimental results, using animal studies, have suggested that HCA may be useful for influencing or affecting lipid metabolism. Accordingly, HCA has been used as an ingredient in some weight control or weight loss products and dietary supplements. However, there is little clinical evidence using human subjects showing that HCA is capable of effectively enabling weight loss.

One of the earliest research performed on the anti-obesity effects of HCA was conducted by Hoffmann-La Roche Pharmaceuticals. Research has suggested that HCA is capable of inhibiting actions of_. certain enzymes required for the metabolism of carbohydrates and fats. For example, studies have shown that HCA inhibits the citrate cleavage enzyme, which is important in the production of substrates for fatty acid synthesis. Accordingly, it has been suggested that consumption of HCA facilitates the inhibition of fat synthesis and therefore helps to reduce or control body fat mass. In addition, it has been suggested that

HCA has appetite suppressant abilities.

The present disclosure provides novel nutraceutical compositions that include both (1) solid and/or liquid matter or material from the fruit of Garcinia mangostana L.; and (2) a I U predetermined concentration of HCA. The HCA can be obtained from natural and/or synthetic sources. Natural sources of HCA include extracts from the fruits of plants of the Garcinia species, such as Garcinia cttroviridis and Garcinia cambogia. Synthetic sources of HCA include commercially available salts of hydroxycitric acid derivatives. Techniques of producing such nutraceutical compositions are also provided by the present disclosure. In addition, tests have been carried out to show that the consumption of the nutraceutical compositions provided by the present disclosure can consistently produce a number of novel health and nutritional benefits.

REPRESENTATIVE NUTRACEUTICAL COMPOSITIONS

A nutraceutical composition in accordance with the present disclosure can include (1) one or more chemical species obtained from the fruit of Garcinia mangostana (e.g., particular Xanthones, which can include mangostin and/or γ-mangostin); (2) HCA; and (3) possibly a carrier substance or dissolving, dispersing, or solution forming agent, which can include, for instance, one or more solvents (e.g., water or alcohol) used in association with an extraction process.

In various embodiments, a nutraceutical composition includes an extract from the fruit of Garcinia mangostana L. in a concentration of about 0.1% to about 99.9% by weight, plus HCA in a correspondingly sufficient weight percentage to yield a 100% by weight nutraceutical composition. For instance, a nutraceutical composition can include an extract from the fruit of Garcinia mangostana L. in a concentration of about 10% to about 90% (e.g., about 20% - about 80%) by weight; and in view of providing a relative 100% by weight nutraceutical composition, HCA in a corresponding concentration of about 10% to about 90% (e.g., about 20% - about 80%) by weight.

In embodiments in which a solvent is used for producing the extract from the fruit of Garcinia mangostana L., and a predetermined amount of solvent is retained in the nutraceutical composition, the extract from the fruit of Garcinia mangostana L. can be defined as including one or more substances or materials obtained from the fruit of Garcinia mangostana L. itself, as well as the solvent. In particular embodiments, the extract includes a predetermined or target amount of Garcinia mangostana L. and a predetermined or target amount of solvent, for instance, a given weight or volume percentage of Garcinia mangostana L. relative to a weight or volume percentage of solvent. Depending upon embodiment details, the extract can exhibit a range of Garcinict mcmgostaπa L. to solvent ratios or relationships. For instance, an extract of the fruit of Garcinia mangostcma L. according to the present disclosure can have a Garcinia nicmgυstana L. to solvent relationship that falls between (1) a Garcinia mangostana L. to solvent ratio of about 99% Garcinia mangostana L. by weight and about 1% solvent by weight, to (2) about 1% Garcinia mangostana L. by weight and about 99% solvent by weight, in order to yield a 100% by weight extract.

The extract from the fruit of Garcinia mangostana L. can be a whole or partial fruit extract, and can include or exclude fruit juice. The HCA can be from one or more sources, which can be natural and/or synthetic. A natural source of HCA includes, but is not limited to, the fruit of any combination of one or more of plants of the Garcinia family. A synthetic source of HCA includes, but is not limited to, commercial salts of hydroxycitric acid derivatives. Examples of commercial salts of hydroxycitric acid derivatives include, but are not limited to, potassium salts, calcium salts and magnesium salts.

The following examples of nutraceutical compositions provided by the present disclosure are for illustrative purposes and do not limit the scope of the present disclosure.

EXAMPLE ONE

A nutraceutical composition including an extract from the fruit of Garcinia mangostana L. in a concentration of substantially between and including 1% and 99% by weight, and HCA in a corresponding concentration of substantially between and including 1% and 99% by weight to yield a 100% by weight nutraceutical composition. The HCA can be obtained from natural sources and/or synthetic sources.

Natural sources of HCA include the fruit of any combination of one or more of plants of the Garcinia family including, but not limited to, Garcinia atroviridis, Garcinia cambogia, Garcinia cυwa and Garcinia bicolor. Synthetic sources of HCA include commercial salts of hydroxycitric acid derivatives, for example potassium salts, calcium salts and magnesium salts. xz

EXAMPLE TWO

A nutraceutical composition including an extract from the fruit of Garcinia mangoslana L. in a concentration of about 1% to about 99% by weight, plus HCA in a sufficient corresponding weight percentage concentration (i.e., about 99% to about 1% with respect to the preceding about 1 % to about 99% Garcinia mangostana L. concentration) to yield a 100% by weight nutraceutical composition.

The extract from the fruit of Garcinia mangostana L. can be a whole fruit extract that includes aril parts and seeds. The extract can include a predetermined amount of solvent. In some embodiments, Garcinia mangostana L. fruit parts and/or fruit juice can be about 10% to about 90% of the extract by weight, with a solvent such as water or alcohol making up the remaining extract weight percentage (i.e., about 90% to about 10% relative to the preceding about 10% to about 90% weight percentage composition of Garcinia mangostana L. within the extract) to yield a 100% by weight extract.

The HCA can be from one or more natural or synthetic sources. A natural source of HCA includes, but is not limited to, the fruit of any combination of one or more of plants of the Garcinia family. A synthetic source of HCA includes, but is not limited to, commercial salts of hydroxycitric acid derivatives. Examples of commercial salts of hydroxycitric acid derivatives include, but are not limited to, potassium salts, calcium salts and magnesium salts.

EXAMPLE THREE

A nutraceutical composition includes an extract from the fruit of Garcinia mangostana L. in a concentration of about 15% to approximately 85% by weight, plus HCA in a sufficient corresponding weight percentage concentration to yield a 100% by weight nutraceutical composition.

The extract from the fruit of Garcinia mangostana L. can be a partial or whole fruit extract, and can include a predetermined amount of water. For instance, the extract can include one or more types of Garcinia mangostana L. fruit substances or matter at a concentration of about 10% to about 90% weight, with water making up the remaining extract weight percentage required to yield a 100% by weight extract. The HCA can be from one or more natural or synthetic sources. A natural source of HCA includes, but is not limited to, the fruit of any combination of one or more of plants of the Garcinia family. A synthetic source of HCA includes, but is not limited to, commercial salts of hydroxycitric acid derivatives. Examples of commercial salts of hydroxycitric acid derivatives include, but are not limited to, potassium salts, calcium salts and magnesium salts. ^{• '}

EXAMPLE FOUR

A nutraceutical composition including Garcinia mangostana L. fruit matter in a concentration substantially between and including approximately 2% to approximately

98% by weight, HCA in a concentration substantially between and including approximately 1% to approximately 49% by weight, and a liquid in a concentration substantially between and including approximately 1% to approximately 49% by weight, to yield a 100% by weight nutraceutical composition. The HCA can be obtained from natural and/or synthetic sources.

As a representative illustration, a nutraceutical composition according to this example can include Garcinia mangostana L. fruit matter in a concentration substantially between and including approximately 10% to approximately 90% by weight, HCA in a concentration substantially between and including approximately 5% to approximately 45% by weight, and a liquid in a concentration substantially between and including approximately 5% to approximately 45% by weight, to yield a 100% by weight nutraceutical composition.

As another representative illustration, a nutraceutical composition according to this example can include Garcinia mangostana L. fruit matter in a concentration substantially between and including approximately 20% to approximately 80% by weight, HCA in a concentration substantially between and including approximately 10% to approximately

40% by weight, and a liquid in a concentration substantially between and including approximately 10% to approximately 40% by weight, to yield a 100% by weight nutraceutical composition.

Natural sources of HCA include the fruit of any combination of one or more of plants of the Garcinia family including, but not limited to, Garcinia atroviridis, Garcinia cambogia, Garcinia cowa and Garcinia bicolor. Synthetic sources of HCA include commercial salts of hydroxycitric acid derivatives, for example potassium salts, calcium salts and magnesium salts.

EXAMPLE FIVE A nutraceutical composition including Garcinia mangostana fruit matter in a concentration substantially between and including approximately 1% to approximately 49% by weight, HCA in a concentration substantially between and including approximately 2% to approximately 98% by weight, and a liquid in a concentration substantially between and including approximately 1% to approximately 49% by weight, to yield a 100% by weight nutraceutical composition. The HCA can be obtained from natural and/or synthetic sources.

As a representative illustration, a nutraceutical composition according to this example can include Garcinia mangostana L. fruit matter in a concentration substantially between and including approximately 5% to approximately 45% by weight, HCA in a concentration substantially between and including approximately 10% to approximately 90% by weight, and a liquid in a concentration substantially between and including approximately 5% to approximately 45% by weight, to yield a 100% by weight nutraceutical composition.

As another representative illustration, a nutraceutical composition according to this example can include Garcinia mangostana L. fruit matter in a concentration substantially between and including approximately 10% to approximately 40% by weight, HCA in a concentration substantially between and including approximately 20% to approximately 80% by weight, and a liquid in a concentration substantially between and including approximately 10% to approximately 40% by weight, to yield a 100% by weight nutraceutical composition.

Natural sources of HCA include the fruit of any combination of one or more of plants of the Garcinia family including, but not limited to, Garcinia atroviridis, Garcinia cambogia, Garcinia cow a and Garcinia bicolor. Synthetic sources of HCA include commercial salts of hydroxycitric acid derivatives, for example potassium salts, calcium salts and magnesium salts. EXAMPLE SIX

A nutraceutical composition including an extract from the fruit of Garcinia mangostana L. in a concentration of approximately 50% to approximately 70% (e.g., about 60%) by weight, HCA in a concentration of approximately 10% to approximately 30% (e.g., about 20%) by weight, and a set of additional substances in a concentration of approximately 10% to ^' approximately 30% (e.g., about 20%) by weight, to yield a 100% by weight nutraceutical composition. The set of additional substances can include a liquid such as water, an active or inactive ingredient or compound as described below, and/or another substance.

The HCA can be obtained from natural sources natural and/or synthetic sources. Natural sources of HCA include the fruit of any combination of one or more of plants of the Garcinia family including, but not limited to, Garcinia atroviridis, Garcinia cambogia, Garcinia cowa and Garcinia bicυlor. Synthetic sources of HCA include commercial salts of hydroxycitric acid derivatives, for example potassium salts, calcium salts and magnesium salts.

EXAMPLE SEVEN

A nutraceutical composition including (1) a fruit substance obtained from Garcinia mangostana L. in a concentration of approximately 40% to approximately 80% (e.g., about 60%) by weight, where the fruit substance includes particular Xanthones (e.g., mangostin, γ-mangostin, and/or other Xanthones); (2) HCA in a concentration of approximately 10% to approximately 30% (e.g., about 20%) by weight; (3) and water in a correspondingly sufficient weight percentage (e.g., about 20%) to yield a 100% by weight nutraceutical composition. The HCA can be obtained fz-om natural and/or synthetic sources.

Natural sources of HCA include the fruit of any combination of one or more of plants of the Garcinia family including, but not limited to, Garcinia atroviridis, Garcinia cambogia, Garcinia cowa and Garcinia bicolor. Synthetic sources of HCA include commercial salts of hydroxycitric acid derivatives, for example potassium salts, calcium salts and magnesium salts. EXAMPLE EIGHT

A nutraceutical composition including an extract from the aril part of the fruit of Garcinia mangostana L. in a concentration of substantially between and including 1% and 99% by weight, and HCA in a corresponding concentration of substantially between and including 1% and 99% by weight to yield a 100% by weight nutraceutical composition. The HCA can be obtained from natural sources and/or synthetic sources, such as one or more sources described above.

EXAMPLE NINE A nutraceutical composition including an extract from the aril part of Garcinia mangostana L. in a concentration of about 1% to about 99% by weight, plus HCA in a sufficient corresponding weight percentage concentration (i.e., about 99% to about 1% with respect to the preceding about 1% to about 99% Garcinia mangostana L. concentration) to yield a 100% by weight nutraceutical composition. The HCA can be obtained from natural sources and/or synthetic sources, such as one or more sources described above.

The extract from the aril part of Garcinia mangostana L. can include a predetermined amount of solvent. For instance, Garcinia mangostana L. aril substances or matter can be about 10% to about 90% of the extract by weight, with a solvent such as water making up the remaining extract weight percentage (i.e., about 90% to about 10% relative to the preceding about 10% to about 90% weight percentage composition of Garcinia mangostana L.) to yield a 100% by weight extract.

EXAMPLE TEN

A nutraceutical composition includes an extract from the aril part of Garcinia mangostana L. in a concentration of about 15% to about 85% by weight, plus HCA in a sufficient corresponding weight percentage concentration to yield a 100% by weight nutraceutical composition. The HCA can be obtained from natural sources and/or synthetic sources, such as one or more sources described above.

The extract from the aril part of Garcinia mangostana L. can include a predetermined amount of water. For instance, the extract can include one or more types of Garcinia mangostana L. aril matter at a concentration of about 10% to about 90% weight, with water making up the remaining extract weight percentage required to yield a 100% by weight extract.

EXAMPLE ELEVEN A nutraceutical composition including Garcinia mangυstana L. aril matter in a concentration substantially between and including approximately 2% to approximately 98% by weight, HCA in a concentration substantially between and including approximately 1% to approximately 49% by weight, and a liquid in a concentration substantially between and including approximately 1% to approximately 49% by weight, to yield a 100% by weight nutraceutical composition. The HCA can be obtained from natural and/or synthetic sources, such as one or more sources described above.

As a representative illustration, a nutraceutical composition according to this example can include Garcinia mangυstana L. aril matter in a concentration substantially between and including approximately 10% to approximately 90% by weight, HCA in a concentration substantially between and including approximately 5% to approximately 45% by weight, and a liquid in a concentration substantially between and including approximately 5% to approximately 45% by weight, to >ield a 100% by weight nutraceutical composition.

As another representative illustration, a nutraceutical composition according to this example can include Garcinia mangostcma L. aril matter in a concentration substantially between and including approximately 20% to approximately 80% by weight, HCA in a concentration substantially between and including approximately 10% to approximately 40% by weight, and a liquid in a concentration substantially between and including approximately 10% to approximately 40% by weight, to yield a 100% by weight nutraceutical composition.

EXAMPLE TWELVE

A nutraceutical composition including Garcinia mangostana L. aril matter in a concentration substantially between and including approximately 1% to approximately 49% by weight, HCA in a concentration substantially between and including approximately 2% to approximately 98% by weight, and a liquid in a concentration substantially between and including approximately 1% to approximately 49% by weight, to yield a 100% by weight nutraceutical composition. The HCA can be obtained from natural and/or synthetic sources, such as one or more sources described above.

As a representative illustration, a nutraceutical composition according to this example can include Garcima mangostana L. aril matter in a concentration substantially between and including approximately 5% to approximately 45% by weight, HCA in a concentration substantially between and including approximately 10% to approximately 90% by weight, and a liquid in a concentration substantially between and including approximately 5% to approximately 45% by weight, to yield a 100% by weight nutraceutical composition.

As another representative illustration, a nutraceutical composition according to this example can include Garcima mangostana L. aril matter in a concentration substantially between and including approximately 10% to approximately 40% by weight, HCA in a concentration substantially between and including approximately 20% to approximately 80% by weight, and a liquid in a concentration substantially between and including approximately 10% to approximately 40% by weight, to yield a 100% by weight nutraceutical composition.

EXAMPLE THIRTEEN A nutraceutical composition including an extract from an aril part of the fruit of Garcima mangostana L. in a concentration of approximately 50% to approximately 70% (e.g., about 60%) by weight, HCA in a concentration of approximately 10% to approximately 30% (e.g., about 20%) by weight, and a set of additional substances in a concentration of approximately 10% to approximately 30% (e.g., about 20%) by weight, to yield a 100% by weight nutraceutical composition. The HCA can be obtained from natural sources natural and/or synthetic sources, such as one or more sources described above. The set of additional substances can include a liquid such as water, an active or inactive ingredient or compound as described below, and/or another substance.

EXAMPLE FOURTEEN

A nutraceutical composition including (1) a substance obtained from an aril part of Garcima mangoslana L. in a concentration of approximately 40% to approximately 80% (e.g., about 60%) by weight, where the aril substance includes particular Xanthones (e.g., mangostin, γ-mangostin, and/or other Xanthones); (2) HCA in a concentration of approximately 10% to approximately 30% (e.g., about 20%) by weight; (3) and water in a correspondingly sufficient weight percentage (e.g., about 20%) to yield a 100% by weight nutraceutical composition. The HCA can be obtained from natural and/or synthetic sources, such as one or more sources described above.

EXAMPLE FIFTEEN

A nutraceutical composition consisting only of (1) substantially between and including 1% and 99% by weight of solid and/or liquid matter or material from the fruit of Garcinia mangυstana L.; (2) substantially between and including 10% and 90% by weight of HCA; and (3) water. The HCA can be obtained from natural and/or synthetic sources, such as one or more sources described above.

EXAMPLE SIXTEEN

A nutraceutical composition consisting only of (1) substantially between and including approximately 50% and approximately 70% (e.g., about 60%) by weight of solid and/or liquid matter or material from the fruit of Garcinia mcmgostana L.; (2) substantially between and including approximately 10% and approximately 30% by weight (e.g., about 20%) of HCA; and (3) water. The HCA can be obtained from natural and/or synthetic sources, such as one or more sources described above.

The nutraceutical compositions recited herein can provide beneficial levels or percentages of active phytochemicals, where such levels can be determined by way of High Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC). More specifically, nutraceutical compositions in accordance with the present disclosure can include approximately 5 - 1000 milligrams, or approximately 25 - 250 milligrams, or approximately. 75 - 150 milligrams (e.g., about 95 - 1 15 milligrams, or about 105 milligrams). of a combination of mangostin and γ-mangostin in an individual final product or a set of final products intended for consumption. In addition, nutraceutical compositions in accordance with the present disclosure can further include relatively smaller quantities of other active phytochemicals, more specifically other types of xanthones.

On a weight or volume basis relative to other constituents in a final product, nutraceutical compositions in accordance with the present disclosure can include at least about 35 micrograms of a combination of mangostin and γ-mangostin per milliliter or milligram; or ZU at least about 70 micrograms, or at least about 100 micrograms, or between about 250 and about 500 micrograms (e.g., approximately 300 to approximately 400 micrograms) of a combination of mangostin and γ-mangostin per milliliter or milligram of final product. In addition, nutraceutical compositions in accordance with the present disclosure can further include a relative small quantity of other active phytochemicals, more specifically other types of xanthones, per milliliter or milligram of final product.

The aforementioned combination of mangostin and γ-mangostin can include about 50% mangostin and about 50% γ-mangostin; or about 60% mangostin and about 40% γ- mangostin; or about 70% mangostin and about 30% γ-mangostin; or about 80% mangostin and about 20% γ-mangostin (e.g., approximately 78% mangostin and approximately 22% γ-mangostin). In addition, nutraceutical compositions in accordance with the present disclosure can further include a small percentage of one or more other xanthones besides mangostin and γ-mangostin in order to make up 100% of the final product.

Nutraceutical compositions in accordance with the present disclosure can be in the form of a food or beverage product, for instance, a beverage that includes a juice. The nutraceutical compositions in accordance with the present disclosure can be a final food or beverage product, or an intermediate food or beverage product that is further combined with other edible compounds or compositions to form a final food or beverage product. Depending upon embodiment details, a nutraceutical composition can be in one or more physical forms such as a tablet, a capsule, a lozenge, a powdered product, a suspension, or a gelatinous matrix.

In certain embodiments, one or more other compounds, compositions, or ingredients can be combined, added to, or used in association with the nutraceutical compositions provided by the present disclosure. Such compounds can include active and/or inactive compounds. An active compound can be directed toward providing certain health, immune system, nutritional, or weight loss benefits. Depending upon embodiment details, representative types of active compounds suitable for use in association or combination with nutraceutical compositions in accordance with the present disclosure can include particular vitamins or minerals (e.g., Calcium, Magnesium, and/or Potassium); a probiotic; a digestive enzyme; one or more types of collagen; a green, white, or other tea extract; a medicinal mushroom extract; Echinacea; ubiquinone; rutin; resveratrol; grapefruit extract; grape seed extract; an extract including ellagic acid (e.g., a raspberry or pomegranate extract); an extract of Morinda citrifolia L. (commonly known as Noni); spirulina or chlorella; barley grass or wheat grass; an amino acid (e.g., L-Arginine); an essential fatty acid; a neuropeptide; caffeine; an extract of Citrus aurantiiim (also known as bitter orange, bigarade orange or Seville orange); an herbal extract such as an extract of Gymnema sylestre; and/or another compound.

Representative types of inactive compounds suitable for use in association or combination with nutraceutical compositions according to the present disclosure can include food colorings, flavorings, sweeteners, or preservatives, which can be natural or synthetic. Representative examples of natural food preservatives can include salt, sugar, vinegar and various citric and ascorbic acids, and representative examples of chemical or synthetic food preservatives include calcium propionate. Representative examples of natural food colorings or dyes can include Annatto (a reddish-orange dye made from the seed of the Achiote), turmeric and saffron. Representative examples of artificial food colorings include Indigotine (E 132), which confers a dark blue shade, and Erythrosine (E 127), which confers a pink shade.

REPRESENTATIVE MANUFACTURING TECHNIQUES Techniques for producing or formulating one or more nutraceutical compositions (e.g., nutraceutical compositions having compositional aspects described above) and/or intermediate or final products that include one or more nutraceutical compositions are also provided by the present disclosure. In various embodiments according to the disclosure, nutraceutical compositions and/or intermediate or final products that include one or more nutraceutical compositions can be manufactured using simple processes that minimize or eliminate the need ^■ for chemical reagents or chemical reactions, and which can be performed in a brief or relatively brief period of time.

EXAMPLE SEVENTEEN As part of a first process or process portion, an extract from the whole fruit(s) of Garcinia mangostana L. is produced, obtained, or provided. A solvent is used for obtaining or extracting the extract from the fruit of Garcinia mangostana L. The solvent can be, for example, water. Additionally or alternatively, the solvent can be alcohol and/or another edible solvent of sufficient polarity. Mechanical extraction processes can be used for λl obtaining the extract from the fruit of Garcinia mangostana L. As part of a second process, HCA is provided. One or both of the Garcinia mangostana L. extract and the HCA can be in a liquid state. Additionally or alternatively, the Garcinia mangostana L. extract can be in a solid state (e.g., freeze dried) and/or the HCA can be in a solid state.

In various embodiments, the amount of provided HCA in a nutraceutical composition according to the present disclosure is greater than approximately 0.1 gram, or between approximately 0.2 grams and approximately 20 grams. In particular embodiments, an amount of HCA provided is between approximately at least about 0.5 grams, or at least about 1.0 gram, or between approximately 1.75 and approximately 3.25 grams (e.g., about 2.2 grams, or about 3.0 grams).

In a third process, the extract from the fruit of Garcinia mangostana L. is mechanically mixed with the HCA at a temperature of substantially between and including approximately 4O⁰C to approximately 75⁰C, or more particularly, approximately 55⁰C to approximately 6O⁰C. The mixing can involve the mixture or combining of Garcinia mangostana L. and HCA in accordance with particular weight percentage ratios such as those described herein. In a fourth process, the mixture of the extract from the fruit of Garcinia mangostana L. and HCA is sterilized using a sterilization process. In a fifth process, the sterilized mixture of the extract from the fruit of Garcinia mangostana L. and HCA is pasteurized using a pasteurization process. The pasteurization process is conducted in sterile conditions. Each of the sterilization process and pasteurization process can be conventional.

In some embodiments, the mixture of the extract from the fruit of Garcinia mangostana L. and HCA obtained by the fourth process can be added to a pre-sterilized container or vessel, and sterilization and/or pasteurization of the mixture of Garcinia mangostana L. and HCA itself can be omitted, resulting in a product having an expected shelf life of approximately 6 - 18 months (e.g., about 1 year).

In a sixth process, the mixture of the extract from the fruit of Garcinia mangostana L. and HCA is combined with, added to, and/or blended with a set of additional ingredients or compounds to produce a predetermined amount of subsidiary product. Such additional ingredients or compounds can include a carrier substance such as water or juice, and/or one or more active or inactive compounds such as those described above. The subsidiary product can be a volume of solid and/or liquid material that is to be further processed and/or handled. In an optional seventh process, the subsidiary product can be heated, cooled, concentrated, diluted, divided, or subjected to other procedures to form a preliminary product. In an eighth^' process, the preliminary product is incorporated into a distribution carrier to form 1) an intermediate, incipient, or transitional product (e.g., a container of liquid for shipping to a bottling center); 2) one or more individual final products (e.g., a single bottle of liquid having a first predetermined volume, and/or a single bottle of liquid having a second predetermined volume); or 3) a final product set (e.g., a multi-unit product set such as a plurality of bottles of liquid having a predetermined total volume).

A single bottle of liquid having a volume of Vi milliliters (e.g., 250 milliliters) and a single bottle of liquid having a volume of V₂ milliliters (e.g., 125 milliliters, or 500 milliliters) can each carry A' grams of nutraceutical composition. More generally, a first individual final product having a first volume can include a total volume of material (e.g., liquid) that carries an analogous, approximately identical, or essentially identical mass or amount of nutraceutical composition as a second individual final product having a second volume that differs from the first volume. Similarly, a final product set in the form of a plurality of bottles of liquid can carry an identical amount of nutraceutical composition as an individual final product in the form of a single bottle of liquid, whether the total volume of liquid in the final product set and the volume of liquid in the individual final product are identical or different. Relative to a given mass or nutraceutical composition, the provision of one or more individual final products having particular volumes and/or the provision of a final product set can be based upon a desired, expected, or target final product or final product-set consumption rate or level in view of health benefit per unit volume, consuming organism size, consuming organism metabolism, or other considerations.

EXAMPLE EIGHTEEN

In association with a first process or process portion, an extract from the aril part of the fruit of Garcinia mangostarta L. is provided. A solvent is used for obtaining or extracting the extract from the fruit of Garcinia mangostana L. The solvent is, for example, water. Alternatively, the solvent can be alcohol or another edible solvent of sufficient polarity. Mechanical extraction processes are used for obtaining the extract from the fruit of Garcinia mangoslana L. In a second process, HCA is provided. The extract from the aril part of the fruit of Garcinia mangostana L. and the HCA are each in a liquid state. In a third process, the extract from the aril part of the fruit of Garcinia mangoslana L. is mechanically mixed with HCA at a temperature of substantially between and including 55⁰C to 6O⁰C. In a fourth process, the mixture of the extract from the aril part of the fruit of Garcinia mangoslana L. and the HCA is sterilized using a sterilization process. In a fifth process, the sterilized mixture of the extract from the aril part of the fruit of Garcinia mangoslana L. and the HCA is pasteurized using a pasteurization process. The pasteurization process is conducted in sterile conditions. Each of the sterilization process and pasteurization process is conventional.

In a sixth process, the mixture of the extract from the aril part of the fruit of Garcinia mangoslana L. and the HCA is added to or blended with a liquid such as water or juice, and in an additional process the blend of the Garcinia mangostana L. aril fruit extract plus HCA with the liquid is added to an individual bottle (e.g., having a volume of approximately 50 - 500 milliliters, or about 100 - 400 milliliters, or about 250 - 350 milliliters) to create an individual bottled product, or a set of bottles (e.g., six bottles, each of which has a volume of about 150 - 350 milliliters) to create a final product set.

EXAMPLE NINETEEN

In a first process or process portion, an extract from the whole fruit(s) of Garcinia mangoslana L. is obtained. In a second process, an extract from the fruit(s) of Garcinia alroviridis is obtained. A solvent used for obtaining or extracting one or both of these extracts from fruits of Garcinia mangoslana L. and fruits of Garcinia atroviridis is, for example, water. Additionally or alternatively, the solvent is alcohol and/or another edible solvent of sufficient polarity. Mechanical extraction processes well known in the art are used for obtaining each of the extracts from fruit of Garcinia mangostana L. and fruit of Garcinia alroviridis. One or both of the extracts from whole fruit of Garcinia mangoslana L. and the extract from the fruit of Garcinia atroviridis can be in a liquid state. In a third process, the extract from the whole fruit of Garcinia mangoslana L. and the extract from the fruit of Garcinia alroviridis are mechanically mixed at a temperature between about 55⁰C and about 6O⁰C. In a fourth process, the mixture of the extract from whole fruit of Garcinia mangoslana L. and the extract from the fruit of Garcinia atroviridis is then sterilized using a sterilization process. In a fifth process, the sterilized mixture of the extract from whole fruit of Garcinia mangostana L. and the extract from the fruit of Garcinia atroviridis is pasteurized using a pasteurization process. The pasteurization process is conducted in sterile conditions. Each of the sterilization process and pasteurization process is conventional. .

In a sixth process, the mixture of the extract from the whole fruit of Garcinia mangostana L. and the HCA is added to or blended with a liquid such as water or juice, and in an additional process the blend of the Garcinia mangostana L. aril fruit extract plus HCA with the liquid is added to an individual bottle (e.g., having a volume of approximately 50 - 500 milliliters, or about 100 - 400 milliliters, or about 250 - 350 milliliters) to create an individual bottled product, or a set of bottles (e.g., six bottles, each of which has a volume of about 150 - 350 milliliters) to create a final product set.

EXAMPLE TWENTY

In a first process or process portion, an extract from whole fruit(s) of Garcinia mangostana L. is obtained. In a second process, an extract from the fruit(s) of Garcinia cambogia is obtained. The solvent used for obtaining or extracting one or both of the extracts is, for example, water. Additionally or alternatively, the solvent is alcohol and/or another edible solvent of sufficient polarity. Mechanical extraction processes well known in the art are used for obtaining each of the extracts from fruit of Garcinia mangostana L. and fruit of Garcinia cambogia. One or both of the whole fruit Garcinia mangostana L. extract and the Garcinia cambogia extract can be in a liquid state. In a third process, the extract from the whole fruit of Garcinia mangostana L. and the extract from the fruit of Garcinia cambogia are mechanically mixed at a temperature of substantially between and including 55⁰C to 6O⁰C. In a fourth process, the mixture of the extract from the whole fruit of Garcinia mangostana L. and the extract from the fruit of Garcinia cambogia is sterilized using a sterilization process. In a fifth process, the sterilized mixture of the extract from the whole fruits of Garcinia mangostana L. and the extract from the fruits of Garcinia cambogia is pasteurized using a pasteurization process. The pasteurization process is conducted in sterile conditions. Each of the sterilization process and pasteurization process can be conventional. Additional processes can be performed, or certain processes can be omitted, depending upon embodiment details. The HCA present in the nutraceutical compositions provided by the present disclosure can be provided by additional or other extracts from various other species of Garcinia not listed above. For example, the HCA can be provided by extracts from the fruits of Garcinia cowa or Garcinia bicolor. Alternatively, the HCA can be provided by commercially available salts of hydroxycitric acids, including potassium salts, calcium salts and magnesium salts.

As described above, one or more nutraceutical compositions when ready for consumption can be provided or included in a liquid form, which in one embodiment is a beverage. Alternatively, the final nutraceutical compositions when ready for consumption are in a solid state (e.g., as one of tablets, capsules and powdered products). The nutraceutical compositions can be combined or mixed with one or more edible food or beverage compositions or products before being packaged for sale and consumption,

HEALTH BENEFITS

Nutraceutical compositions according to the present disclosure provide particular health and nutritional benefits when consumed by a living organism, more specifically when consumed by humans. Consumption of a nutraceutical composition manufactured, formulated, or prepared in accordance with present disclosure has been found to provide health benefits in a manner, at a level, within a time period, and/or with a consistency across individuals not previously disclosed or suggested. More particularly, the consumption of a nutraceutical composition including a combination of an extract from the fruit of Garcinia mangosiana L. plus HCA has been found to synergistically support or stimulate the immune system and facilitate weight management or control. Relative to immune system support or stimulation, the consumption of a nutraceutical composition including a combination of an extract from the fruit of Garcinia mangosiana L. and HCA has been found to provide particular effects involving the increased production of Interleukin-2 (IL-2). Particular health or nutritional benefits provided by the consumption of the nutraceutical compositions in accordance with the present disclosure are described below.

EXAMPLE TWENTY ONE

In a representative group of persons (for example, in a group of 20 - 28 persons, more specifically in a group of 28 persons), each person or individual consumed a bottle of a liquid (e.g., water) containing a nutraceutical composition according to the present disclosure each day for 28 days (four weeks). An average weight loss of between one and six kilograms, and an average waistline reduction of between two and five inches, were measured for the representative group of persons after the 28 days. ■^•

Additionally, blood tests conducted on each person of the representative group of persons showed no quantifiable change in liver function attributable to the consumption of the nutraceutical composition, providing evidence of the nutraceutical composition's non- toxicity.

EXAMPLE TWENTY TWO

In accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure, each person within a representative group of persons (for example, a group of 20 - 28 persons, and more specifically a group of 28 persons) consumed a bottled volume of liquid each day during a 28-day trial. More particularly, the volume of liquid was approximately 300 milliliters, and the liquid carried a nutraceutical composition. The nutraceutical composition included approximately 50% - 70% (e.g., about 60%) by weight of a substance or material obtained from the fruit of Garcinia mangostana L., approximately 10% - 30% (e.g., about 20%) by weight HCA, and approximately 10% - 30% (e.g., about 20%) by weight water, where each nutraceutical constituent was appropriately proportioned on a weight basis to yield a 100% by weight composition.

An average weight loss of between one and six kilograms, and an average waistline reduction of between two and five inches, were measured for the representative group of persons after the 28 days. In addition, blood tests performed prior to the onset of the trial and after an initial 7-day period within the 28-day trial showed a stimulation of the immune system of each person of the representative group of persons. More specifically, in each person of the representative group of persons in the trial, an immune response triggered at the end of a 7-day period shows an average increased production of Interleukin-2 (IL-2) compared to an IL-2 level prior to, or at the start of, the 7-day period.

EXAMPLE TWENTY THREE

In accordance with an embodiment of the disclosure, each person within a representative group of persons (for example, a group of 20 - 28 persons, and more specifically a group of 28 persons) consumed a bottle having a total liquid volume of 300 milliliters each day during a 28-day trial. The liquid carried a nutraceutical composition that included approximately 50% - 70% (e.g., about 60%) by weight of a material or substance obtained from the fruit of Garcinia mangostana, approximately 10% - 30% by weight (e.g., about 20%) of HCA, and approximately 10% - 30% by weight (e.g., about 20%) of water, where each nutraceutical constituent was appropriately proportioned on a weight basis to yield a 100% by weight composition. Additionally, the 300 milliliters of liquid carried approximately 90 - 120 milligrams (e.g., about 105 milligrams) of a combination of mangostin and γ-mangostin, and at least about 1.75 grams of HCA (e.g., about 2 - 3 grams).

Throughout the 28-day trial, aside from consuming one bottle of the aforementioned liquid each day, trial subjects normal pre-trial activities of daily living remained unchanged (i.e., any given subject's dietary and exercise patterns during the trial were identical or essentially identical to their dietary and exercise patterns prior to the trial).

By the end of the trial, the range of weight loss across the representative group of persons was between about one and about five kilograms; and a range of a combined measure of waistline reduction across the representative group of persons was between about three and about twelve centimeters.

Table 1 shows average and maximum waistline reduction at four waist regions, as well as average and maximum weight reduction results, measured at the end of the trial.

Table 1: Summary of Representative Waistline and Body Weight Reduction Blood tests performed on each person of the representative group of persons following their consumption of the nutraceutical composition for an initial 7-day period showed a stimulation of the immune system in each person of the representative group of persons. Each person of the group of the representative group of persons was tested for an immune system response using a human enzyme-linked immunoabsorbent assay (ELISA) IL-2 test kit. More specifically, each serum sample prepared from blood obtained from each person of the representative group of persons was subjected to the human serum IL-2 determining test kit from Amersham Bioscience (Biotrak™ ELISA system) to determine the IL-2 level of each person of the representative group of persons. Method for determining IL-2 levels using the human serum IL-2 determining test kit from Amersham Bioscience (Biotrak ^rM ELISA system) has been disclosed by the manufacturer and is known in the art.

Table 2 shows representative immune system stimulation results due to consumption of the nutraceutical composition. More specifically, Table 2 shows a highest, lowest, and average increase in IL-2 levels at the end of the 7-day period (i.e. IL-2 level after 7 days of consuming the nutraceutical composition) relative to a baseline condition or state (i.e. IL-2 level before consumption of the nutraceutical composition) in ^' respect of the representative group of persons.

Table 2: Summary of Representative Immune System Stimulation

It was further determined that average skin complexion of the persons of the representative group of persons (for example, a group of 20 - 28 persons, and more specifically a group of 28 persons) was enhanced after the 28-day period (based upon visual observation).

The above described embodiments of the present disclosure are meant for illustrative purposes and do not restrict the scope of the present disclosure. While aspects of particular compositions, processes, and health-related effects associated with certain embodiments have been described herein, other embodiments may also exhibit such advantages, and not all embodiments need necessarily exhibit such advantages to fall within the scope of present disclosure. Various modifications can be made to the above- described embodiments without departing from the scope of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. A nutraceutical composition comprising: a predetermined concentration of an extract from a fruit of a Garcinia mangostana L. plant; and a predetermined concentration of hydroxycitric acid.

2. The nutraceutical composition as in claim 1 , wherein the predetermined concentration of hydroxycitric acid is obtained from a fruit of a Garcinia atroviridis plant.

3. The nutraceutical composition as in claim 1 , wherein the predetermined concentration of hydroxycitric acid is obtained from at least one of Garcinia cambogia, Garcinia cow a, Garcinia bicolor and salts of hydroxycitric acid derivatives.

4. The nutraceutical composition as in claim _.1, wherein the predetermined concentration of the Garcinia mangostana extract is obtained from the aril of the fruit of the Garcinia mangostana L. plant.

5. The nutraceutical composition as in claim 1 , wherein the predetermined concentration of the extract from the fruit of the Garcinia mangostana L. plant is about 1% - about 99% by weight and the predetermined concentration of hydroxycitric acid is about 1% - about 99% by weight.

6. The nutraceutical composition as in claim 1 , wherein the predetermined concentration of the extract from the fruit of the Garcinia mangostana L^'. plant is about 50% - about 70% by weight of fruit substance plus about 10% - about 30% by weight of a solvent, and the predetermined concentration of hydroxycitric acid is about 10% - about 30% by weight.

7. The nutraceutical composition as in claim 1, wherein the predetermined concentration of the extract from the fruit of the Garcinia mangostana L. plant is about 60% by weight of fruit substance plus about 20% by weight of a solvent, and the predetermined concentration of hydro xycitric acid is about 20% by weight.

8. A method for formulating a nutraceutical composition comprising: providing at least a part of a fruit of the Garcinia mcmgostana L. plant; using a solvent to obtain an extract from the at least a part of the fruit of the Garcinia mangostana L. plant; and mixing the extract from the at least a part of the fruit of the Garcinia mangostana L. plant with a predetermined concentration of hydroxycitric acid.

9. The method as in claim 8, wherein the extract is obtained from an aril part of the fruit of the Garcinia mangosiana L. plant.

10. The method as in claim 8, wherein the hydroxycitric acid is obtained from an extract from a fruit of a Garcinia atroviridis plant.

11. The method as in claim 8, wherein the hydroxycitric acid is obtained from at least one of Garcinia cambogia, Garcinia coyva, Garcinia bicolor and salts of hydroxycitric acid derivatives.

12. The method as in claim 8, wherein the formulated nutraceutical composition comprises: about 1% - about 99% by weight of hydroxycitric acid; and about 1 % - about 99% by weight of the extract from the at least a part of the fruit of the Garcinia mangostana L. plant.

13. The method as in claim 8, wherein the formulated nutraceutical composition comprises: about 10% - about 30% by weight of hydroxycitric acid; about 10% - about 30% by weight of a solvent; and about 50% - about 70% by weight of a substance from the at least a part of the fruit of the Garcinia mangostana L. plant.

14. The method as in claim 8, wherein the formulated nutraceutical composition comprises: about 20% by weight of hydroxycitric acid; and about 80% by weight of the extract from the at least a part of the fruit of the Garciπia mangostana L. plant.

15. A use of an extract from part of a fruit of a Garcinia mangostana L. plant, in combination with a predetermined concentration of hydroxycitric acid, in the manufacture of a nutraceutical composition for at least one of immune system stimulation and weight control.

16. The use as in claim 15, wherein the nutraceutical composition is capable of affecting an interleukin-2 level.

17. The use as in claim 15, wherein the extract is from an aril part of the fruit of the Garciπia mangostana L. plant.

18. The use as in claim 15, wherein the hydroxycitric acid is obtained from an extract from a fruit of a Garcinia atroviridis plant.

19. The use as in claim 15, wherein the hydroxycitric acid is obtained from at least one of Garcinia cambogia, Garcinia cowa, Garcinia bicolor and salts of hydroxycitric acid derivatives.

20. The use as in claim 15, wherein the manufactured nutraceutical composition comprises: . ^• . about 10% to about 90% by weight of hydroxycitric acid; and about 10% to about 90% by weight of the extract from the at least a part of the fruit of the Garciπia mangostana L. plant.

21. The use as in claim 15, wherein the manufactured nutraceutical composition comprises: about 10% to about 30% by weight of hydroxycitric acid; and about 70% to about 90% by weight of the extract from the at least a part of the fruit of the Garcinia mangosiana L. plant.

22. The use as in claim 15, wherein the manufactured nutraceutical composition comprises: about 20% by weight of hydroxycitric acid; about 20% by weight of a solvent; about 60% by weight of a substance from the at least a part of the fruit of the Garcinia mcmgostana L. plant

23. The use as claim 15, wherein the manufactured nutraceutical composition is one of a food, a beverage, and a supplement composition for one of food and beverage.

24. A nutraceutical composition having only: a predetermined concentration of an extract from a fruit of a Garcinia maπgoslana L. plant; a predetermined concentration of hydroxycitric acid; and water.

25. The nutraceutical composition of claim 24, wherein the predetermined concentration of the extract from the fruit of the Garcinia mangosiana L. plant is obtained from an aril part of the fruit of the Garcinia mangostana L. plant.

26. The nutraceutical composition of claim 24, wherein the predetermined concentration of hydroxycitric acid is obtained from an extract from a fruit of a

Garcinia alroviridis plant.

27. The nutraceutical composition of claim 24, wherein the predetermined concentration of the extract from the fruit of the Garcinia mangosiana L. plant is about 10% to about 90% by weight and the predetermined concentration of hydroxycitric acid is about 10% to about 90% by weight.

28. A method for formulating a nutraceutical composition for oral administration comprising: providing an aril part of a fruit of a Garcinia mcmgostana L. plant; using water for obtaining an extract from the aril part of the fruit of the Garcinia mcmgostana L. plant; providing a fruit of a Garcinia atroviridis plant; using water for obtaining an extract from the fruit of the Garcinia atroviridis plant; and mixing the extract from the aril part of the fruit of the Garcinia mcmgostana L. plant with the extract from the fruit of the Garcinia atroviridis plant at a temperature between approximately 55⁰C and approximately 65⁰C to obtain a mixture of approximately 50% to approximately 70% by weight of extract from the aril part of the fruit of the Garcinia mcmgostana L. plant and approximately 10% to approximately 30% of the extract from the fruit of the Garcinia astroviridis plant.

29. The method as in claim 28, further comprising providing the nutraceutical composition in one from the group of a liquid, a powder, a capsule, and a tablet.

30. A method for formulating a substance for consumption by a living organism comprising: providing a nutraceutical composition comprising a predetermined concentration of hydroxycitric acid and a predetermined concentration of an extract from at least a part of a fruit of the Garcinia mcmgostana L. plant, the extract including at least one of mangostin and γ-mangostin; adding the nutraceutical composition to a carrier substance; and incorporating the nutritional composition and the carrier substance into at least one from the group of a first individual final product having a first volume, a second individual final product having a second volume different than the first volume, and a final product set.

31. The method of claim 30, wherein incorporating the nutritional composition into at least one from the group of a first individual final product, a second individual final product, and a final product set comprises incorporating the nutritional composition into at least two from the group of a first individual final product, a second individual final product, and a final product set.

32. The method of claim 31, wherein the at least two from the group of a first individual final product, a second individual final product, and a final product set each include an approximately identical mass of nutraceutical composition.

33. The method of claim 30, wherein the at least one from the group of the first individual final product, the second individual final product, and the final product set include at least about 1.75 grams of hydroxycitric acid.

34. The method of claim 30, wherein the at least one from the group of the first individual final product, the second individual final product, and the final product set include a combination of mangostin and γ-mangostin at a concentration of at least approximately 100 micrograms per milliliter of carrier substance.