With the US supplements market valued at over $100 billion, it is no wonder that manufacturers are on the lookout for the next big thing. A new study suggests that perhaps the next big thing might be two popular Asian herbs.

In a study of resistance-trained male participants (aged 20-30), Laila Nutraceuticals R&D Center found that the combination of two extracts -- Garcinia mangostana fruit rind and Cinnamomum tamala leaf, known together as “GMCT” -- was effective in increasing muscle strength, muscle size, total lean mass, and improving endurance performance.Further research is needed to determine the underlying molecular mechanisms responsible for the anabolic activities of GMCT, as well as the supplement’s efficacy in women, older participants and untrained participants. 

But the results with even this narrow group were so promising that major companies are making great efforts to fight for the biggest piece of the GMCT market. We look forward to testing it out ourselves!

Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition 2018 15:50