Gamboge
Gamboge is a natural resin derived from trees of the genus Garcinia, primarily used historically as a purgative and cathartic agent in traditional medicine systems. It contains active compounds such as gambogic acid and has been studied primarily in research contexts rather than as a standard pharmaceutical. Due to its unclassified status and limited clinical documentation, its use in modern medicine remains minimal.
Gamboge is a traditional plant resin historically used as a laxative, though it is not an established modern medication.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 89698
- Generic
- Gamboge
- Class
- unclassified
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- oral
- Forms
- tablet
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Gamboge has been used historically as a purgative for constipation relief and in traditional medicine practices, though it is not approved by regulatory agencies as a standard pharmaceutical treatment.
The exact mechanism is not well-established. It is believed to act as a stimulant laxative, increasing bowel motility through irritation of the gastrointestinal tract. Gambogic acid, a primary component, has been studied for various biological activities in research settings.
Gamboge is not a recognized modern pharmaceutical and lacks standardized dosing, safety, or efficacy data from clinical trials. Its use is primarily of historical and ethnobotanical interest. The resin can be irritating to the GI tract and may cause adverse effects. This information is provided for educational purposes only.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 20, 2026. · Read our editorial policy