Health Benefits of Mangosteen
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Medically reviewed by Karina Tolentino, RD
Mangosteen, also known as Garcinia mangostana L., has long been used as a medicinal plant in Southeast Asia, including Malaysia and the Philippines. Different parts of the mangosteen plant have been used to treat various conditions including inflammation, infection, and skin disorders.
The mangosteen fruit specifically is round, dark purple, with a hard rind and white flesh. The fruit is both juicy and tender, boasting a delightful combination of sweet and subtly tart flavors, and a pleasing fragrance. Known as the "Queen of Fruits" due to its unique taste and medicinal value, mangosteen has garnered attention in the scientific community.
Source of Antioxidants and Other Beneficial Compounds
Antioxidants, abundant in nutritious foods like fruits and vegetables, play a crucial role in protecting cells from oxidative stress. Oxidative stress is formed naturally in the body and comes from environmental sources like pollution and sunlight. It's believed to play a role in triggering cell damage and the development of various diseases such as cancer, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease.
Researchers have noted antioxidant activity within both mangosteen rind and peel powder. This activity has been observed in liver tissue and specific brain cells, suggesting potential benefits.
Other helpful compounds found in mangosteen, such as α-mangostin, have been shown to fight tumors, relieve nerve pain, and have anti-depressant effects. While preliminary studies on mangosteen's beneficial compounds show promising results, much of the research comes from test tube and animal studies. Further studies are needed to fully understand the impact and potential health benefits of mangosteen on human health.
Contains Anti-inflammatory Properties
Inflammation is the body's built-in defense system, kicking in during injury or under attack from harmful elements. There are two main types: acute and chronic. Acute inflammation happens fast and usually clears up within a few days to weeks. Chronic inflammation develops more slowly and can last months or even years.
Chronic inflammation often goes unnoticed but can silently wreak havoc, contributing to many long-term health problems, including cardiovascular disease, cancer, diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
While research in the field of inflammation and mangosteen is still in its early stages, a few human studies have shown promising results. For example:
In a small randomized controlled trial with 25 participants, mangosteen gel application underneath the gumline, alongside traditional periodontal procedures, showed promise in improving moderate chronic periodontitis (an inflammatory disease affecting the tissue and bones of teeth).
One study of 104 participants showed that intake of mangosteen and propolis (a substance produced by bees) extract might reduce gingival (gums) inflammation in patients with gingivitis and early periodontitis.
In a preliminary study of 122 participants with obesity, a specialized blend of mangosteen juice was observed to decrease c-reactive protein levels, a marker of inflammation.
May Improve Insulin Sensitivity
Insulin acts as a key, enabling cells to absorb glucose from food. However, in insulin resistance, cells become less responsive to insulin, resulting in poor glucose absorption. To compensate, the body produces more insulin, straining the pancreas. Eventually, this can lead to elevated blood sugar levels, potentially causing prediabetes or type 2 diabetes.
In a small pilot study, researchers investigated the impact of a 400-milligram (mg) mango extract capsule on insulin resistance in 22 female participants with both insulin resistance and obesity. The participants were split into two groups: one receiving behavior therapy alone and the other receiving behavior therapy along with mango extract for 26 weeks.
Results indicated that the group taking mangosteen extract experienced a significant decrease in insulin levels and inflammation markers, along with a notable increase in HDL (good) cholesterol levels.
It's important to note that this study was relatively short, focused exclusively on a small number of female participants, and utilized an open-label design, meaning both participants and researchers were aware of the treatment being administered. To validate these findings, further human studies involving both women and men and employing randomized controlled trials with larger sample sizes, are necessary.
May Help with Weight Management
Meratrim is made from extracts of Sphaeranthus indicus flowers and mangosteen rinds. Earlier research shows its effectiveness in weight loss in people with obesity.
In a study, 60 participants with an average body mass index (BMI) of 28.3 took either Meratrim (400 milligrams twice daily) or a placebo for 16 weeks. They were also encouraged to eat around 2,000 calories daily and walk for 30 minutes, five days a week. Fifty participants finished the study. Those taking Meratrim showed significant decreases in body weight, BMI, hip circumference, low-density lipoprotein, or LDL (bad) cholesterol, total cholesterol, and triglycerides compared to those taking the placebo. No adverse effects were noted.
The findings indicate that Meratrim is a safe and effective option for weight loss in individuals who have excess body weight and are generally healthy.
Nutritional Facts of Mangosteen
The following nutrition information is for one cup of syrup-packed, canned, and drained mangosteen:
Calories: 143
Protein: 0.804 grams (g)
Fat: 1.14 g
Carbohydrate: 35.1 g
Fiber: 3.53 g (13% of the daily value or DV)
Magnesium: 25.5 milligrams (mg) (6% of the DV)
Copper: 0.135 mg (15% of the DV)
Manganese: 0.2 mg (9% of the DV)
Vitamin C: 5.68 mg (6% of the DV)
Thiamin (vitamin B1): 0.106 mg (9% of the DV)
Riboflavin (vitamin B2): 0.106 mg (8% of the DV)
Folate: 60.08 micrograms (mcg) (15% of the DV)
Mangosteen is a good source of fiber, copper, and folate, providing over 10% of the DV for these nutrients. Fiber can support gut health and weight management. It may also help with blood sugar control and lowering cholesterol.
Copper is involved in many bodily functions including making energy, connective tissues, and blood vessels. It also helps maintain the nervous and immune systems.
Folate helps the body make DNA and other genetic material. It's especially important during pregnancy as inadequate folate intake can lead to spina bifida (improper development of the spine) as well as a premature baby.
Risks of Eating Mangosteen
Consumption of mangosteen is generally safe. Reports indicate potential side effects associated with consuming mangosteen extract up to 560 mg. However, it remains unclear if these effects are directly linked to mangosteen. These rare side effects may include skin rash, digestive discomfort like abdominal pain, constipation, or diarrhea, as well as flu-like symptoms and unusual changes in urination.
Mangosteen may slow blood clotting, potentially increasing bleeding risk in individuals with bleeding disorders. Additionally, for those undergoing surgery, mangosteen could heighten the risk of bleeding during or after the procedure, thus discontinuation of mangosteen intake two weeks before surgery is advised.
Mangosteen may also interact with Aricept (donepezil), a medication for treating Alzheimer's disease and dementia. It might increase the effects of donepezil.
If you're uncertain about how mangosteen may interact with your medication or medical condition, it's advisable to avoid consuming it. Consult a healthcare provider for personalized medical guidance.
Tips for Consuming Mangosteen
Proper storage is crucial to prevent spoilage and enjoy mangosteen. Keep it in a cool, dry place, away from sunlight, at room temperature. Avoid storing in the refrigerator to prevent flavor loss and quick spoilage.
To eat mangosteen, first, use a knife to make a shallow cut around the middle of the fruit. Be careful not to cut through the shell as it may damage the fruit inside. Twist and pull apart the halves to reveal the white segments inside. Then, simply remove the segments with your fingers or a spoon, discarding the bitter seeds.
Apart from eating mangosteen as is, you can also enjoy it in various other ways:
Add mangosteen to fruit salads
Blend mangosteen with other fruits like bananas, berries, or pineapple for a refreshing smoothie
Mix mangosteen into yogurt along with other toppings like nuts or seeds
Use mangosteen as a topping for pudding, ice cream, or sorbet
Incorporate mangosteen juice or puree into cocktails or mocktails
Combine mangosteen with other fruits like mango or pineapple to create a fruit salsa to accompany grilled meats or seafood
Puree mangosteen and use it as a sauce for pancakes, waffles, or grilled chicken
Make a tangy salad dressing by blending mangosteen with citrus juices, olive oil, spices, and herbs
Other Uses for Mangosteen
Mangosteen extract has been used to treat acne, eczema, skin infections, and wound healing for over a hundred years. In clinical studies, α-mangostin, a compound derived from mangosteen and used in a topical anti-acne treatment gel, demonstrated significant improvement in acne symptoms among a small group of participants.
Mangosteen peel extract as an antioxidant agent has been shown to increase the sheer bond strength of brackets in bleached teeth. Bleaching is a common treatment for tooth discoloration. However, it may lead to decreased bond strength of orthodontic brackets (braces), meaning that the brackets may not stick to the teeth as securely as needed.
A Quick Review
Mangosteen has a ton of potential health benefits, ranging from its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties to its possible role in improving insulin sensitivity, body weight, and acne.
While research into its therapeutic uses continues to expand, mangosteen is nonetheless a nutritious and versatile fruit offering a good dose of fiber, copper, and folate. From fruit salads and smoothies to salsas and dressings, mangosteen can be a flavorful addition to the diet.
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