Mangosteen

Mangosteen

Mangosteen scientifically known as Garcinia mangostana, is a tropical evergreen tree found in South East Asia and in some regions of Africa. Also known as the “queen of fruits”, mangosteen contains an impressive array of essential vitamins, minerals, and phytochemicals called xanthones. Different parts of the fruit and plant are traditionally used in the treatment of various diseases and disorders since the 18th century.

Benefits of Mangosteen

An enormous amount of modern study and research supports the amazing health benefits of this remarkable fruit:

Fights Cancer

Mangosteens have been the focus of many anti-cancer studies, and results have been very promising. Results from a 2008 study conducted in Japan showed that the xanthones in mangosteen inhibited the growth of human colon cancer cell lines by inducing cell cycle arrest to kill malignant cells.^[1] Similarly, a 2016 study published in the International Journal of Oncology found that the alpha-mangostin xanthones induced programmed cell death of breast cancer cells, indicating that mangosteen fruit and supplements may be used as a potential treatment for cancer.^[2]

Combats Inflammation and Allergies

Compelling evidence suggests that mangosteen extracts have both anti-allergy and anti-inflammatory properties. According to a study published in the Biological and Pharmaceutical Bulletin, mangosteen extracts proved to be potent inhibitors of the release of prostaglandin and histamine, both of which trigger inflammation as well as allergic reaction.^[3]

Lowers High Blood Sugar

Mangosteen can be beneficial in diabetics because of its blood sugar-lowering effect. According to a study published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, mangosteen contains compounds that help lower blood sugar levels by inhibiting enzymes that cause starches to break down into blood sugar.^[4] This effect is comparable to that of acarbose, a prescription drug used to treat symptoms of type 2 diabetes.

Helps Prevent Acne

One study conducted in Thailand found that mangosteen helps reduce the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), which triggers the release of pro-inflammatory cytokine that contribute to acne breakouts.^[5] The ability of mangosteen to suppress ROS production is mainly due to its antioxidant properties.

Helps Prevent Cardiovascular Disease

Increased oxidative stress (imbalance between the production of free radicals and the body’s ability to neutralize their harmful effects through antioxidants) and chronic inflammation are major factors that increase one’s risk for cardiovascular disease. Interestingly, according to a study published in the Journal of Food Science and Nutrition, consumption of mangosteen juice (3, 6, or 9 oz twice daily) decreased oxidative stress and markers of inflammation in overweight and obese individuals.^[6] In addition, the supplemented group experienced a significant reduction in body mass index (BMI). The reduction in oxidative stress, markers of inflammation, and BMI may help lower one’s risk for heart disease and other fatal illnesses.

Strengthens the Immune System

One study found that consumption of mangosteen products for 30 days may help strengthen the immune system.^[7] According to the study, healthy subjects who consumed mangosteen products had higher activity levels of T-helper cells and other cells of the immune system, indicating an improved immune function.

References:

1. Akao Y, Nakagawa Y, Iinuma M, Nozawa Y. Anti-cancer effects of xanthones from pericarps of mangosteen. Int J Mol Sci. 2008;9(3):355-70.
2. Kritsanawong S, Innajak S, Imoto M, Watanapokasin R. Antiproliferative and apoptosis induction of α-mangostin in T47D breast cancer cells. Int J Oncol. 2016;48(5):2155-65.
3. Chen LG, Yang LL, Wang CC. Anti-inflammatory activity of mangostins from Garcinia mangostana. Food Chem Toxicol. 2008;46(2):688-93.
4. Loo AE, Huang D. Assay-guided fractionation study of alpha-amylase inhibitors from Garcinia mangostana pericarp. J Agric Food Chem. 2007;55(24):9805-10.
5. Chomnawang MT, Surassmo S, Nukoolkarn VS, Gritsanapan W. Effect of Garcinia mangostana on inflammation caused by Propionibacterium acnes. Fitoterapia. 2007;78(6):401-8.
6. Xie Z, Sintara M, Chang T, Ou B. Daily consumption of a mangosteen-based drink improves in vivo antioxidant and anti-inflammatory biomarkers in healthy adults: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial. Food Science & Nutrition. 2015;3(4):342-348. doi:10.1002/fsn3.225.
7. Tang YP, Li PG, Kondo M, Ji HP, Kou Y, Ou B. Effect of a mangosteen dietary supplement on human immune function: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. J Med Food. 2009;12(4):755-63.