Mangosteen is a tropical fruit known for its sweet pulp and a rind rich in xanthones (notably alpha-mangostin). Traditional uses include remedies for inflammation and skin problems. Lab studies show promising biological activity, but high-quality human trials are lacking. Mangosteen food products are safe for general consumption, but supplements vary in composition and are not FDA-approved to treat disease; consult a healthcare provider before use.

What mangosteen is

Garcinia mangostana, commonly called mangosteen, is a tropical fruit native to Southeast Asia. The fruit is about the size of a tangerine, usually dark purple, and often grows in clusters of three to nine. Mangosteen trees are slow-growing and typically reach about 6-25 m (20-82 ft).

Traditional use and what's in the rind

In Southeast Asia the rind (pericarp) has a long history of use in folk medicine. Locals have brewed teas or pastes from the rind for skin complaints, inflammation, and infections. Modern studies show the rind is rich in xanthones - a class of polyphenolic compounds - with alpha-mangostin one of the most-studied xanthones.

Laboratory findings vs. clinical evidence

In laboratory (in vitro) and animal studies, xanthones show antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and cancer-cell activity. These results help explain the traditional uses and make mangosteen an active topic of research.

Human clinical evidence, however, is limited. Small trials and observational reports exist, but there is no high-quality clinical proof that mangosteen or xanthone extracts prevent or cure stroke, heart disease, or cancer. More well-designed randomized controlled trials are needed before medicinal claims can be supported.

How people consume mangosteen

People eat the sweet white pulp fresh or use it in juices. Extracts and supplements often use the pericarp because it concentrates xanthones. Product formulations vary widely, and doses used in research differ from those found in commercial supplements.

Safety and regulation

Mangosteen fruit and juice are food products in many countries. As dietary supplements, mangosteen extracts are not approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration to treat disease. Some safety concerns have been raised about multi-ingredient supplements containing mangosteen, and there are limited reports linking such products to liver injury in isolated cases . If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking prescription medications, or have liver disease, consult a healthcare professional before using mangosteen supplements.

Bottom line

Mangosteen is a nutritious tropical fruit with a pericarp rich in xanthones. Laboratory studies suggest biological activity, but current human evidence is insufficient to claim it treats serious diseases. Enjoy the fresh fruit for flavor and nutrition, and consult a clinician before using concentrated extracts or supplements.
  1. Verify published case reports or safety alerts linking mangosteen-containing supplements to liver injury and summarize sources.
  2. Confirm the current number and size of randomized controlled trials on mangosteen/xanthone extracts in humans and update trial evidence if new high-quality studies exist.
  3. Check any recent regulatory statements (FDA or other agencies) specifically addressing mangosteen supplements.

FAQs about Mangostein

What part of mangosteen contains the most xanthones?
Xanthones concentrate in the pericarp (rind). Most research and many supplements use extracts from the rind rather than the white pulp.
Can mangosteen cure cancer or heart disease?
No. Laboratory studies show activity against cancer cells and cardiovascular-related pathways, but there is insufficient high-quality human clinical evidence to support claims that mangosteen cures or prevents cancer, heart disease, or stroke.
Is mangosteen juice or supplement safe?
Fresh mangosteen fruit and juice are generally safe as foods. Supplements vary in composition and are not FDA-approved to treat disease. People who are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking medications, or with liver conditions should consult a healthcare professional before using concentrated extracts.
Why do researchers study xanthones from mangosteen?
Xanthones like alpha-mangostin show antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial effects in laboratory and animal studies, which may explain some traditional uses and suggest potential therapeutic targets for further research.
How should I use mangosteen if I want its benefits?
Enjoy the fresh fruit as part of a balanced diet. If considering extracts or supplements for health reasons, discuss them with your clinician and rely on evidence-based treatments for serious conditions.

News about Mangostein

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