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Mangosteen Fruit Uses

Mar 28, 2011 | By Mary Garrett
Mangosteen Fruit Uses
Photo Credit Mangosteen image by Mau Horng from Fotolia.com

Native to Southeast Asia, mangosteen is a tropical red-purple fruit that is mildly acidic, containing antioxidants, fiber, calcium, phosphorus, iron and pectin. Medicinal uses include digestive disease, eczema, gonorrhea and menstrual regulation. It's not just the fruit that shows healing properties, but also the rind, root, stems, bark and seed are all used for medicinal purposes, dried, steeped, roasted or ground into a powder. Human studies are limited, but researchers are investigating mangosteen for possible use in preventing cancer-cell growth and metabolic syndrome and as an anti-fungal for oral candidiasis.

Anti-Cancer

The effects of mangosteen on cancer cells is promising. A laboratory study published in the March 2008 issue of the "International Journal of Molecular Sciences" evaluated the anti-cancer properties on the cancer cells of rats. One group of rats given mangosteen injections experienced slowed tumor growth because of cancer-cell death from the phytochemical a-mangostin. This phytochemical also activated the cells' natural protective proteins as well. Researchers conclude that the phytochemicals of mangosteen are potent antioxidants and have an anti-inflammatory effect that may prevent cancer. Clinical studies have been undertaken for a possible therapeutic and preventative treatment for cancer.

Mangosteen Juice

A pilot study, published in the October 2009 issue of "Nutrition Journal," investigated the effect of mangosteen juice on obesity-related inflammation that leads to heart disease and diabetes. Forty participants were randomly divided into four groups taking either placebo, 6 oz., 12 oz. or 18 oz. of XanGo Juice daily for eight weeks. Results showed that the group consuming 18 oz. daily experienced the most dramatic improvement over placebo in reducing the blood markers of inflammation, called cytokines. This group also experienced a slight reduction in body mass index. A larger study is warranted to further examine the effects of mangosteen juice.

Oral Candidiasis

The fungus Candida albicans is a natural oral bacteria that can cause infection when the immune system is compromised. This condition is a growing problem with the prevalence of immuno-compromised conditions such as HIV, chemotherapy treatment and old age. The fungus causes painful sores in the mouth, making eating difficult. Researchers investigated the effect of mangosteen because of its medicinal use for skin infections and low toxicity levels. The study published in the September 2009 issue of "Nutrition Journal" showed that the phytochemicals of mangosteen's skin killed Candida within 20 minutes of exposure and was not toxic to healthy cells for eight to 48 hours, depending on dose. Although researchers have not identified the exact mechanism by which the mangosteen kills the fungus, the results make it a candidate for creating a mouthwash to test in clinical trials.

Considerations

It has not been determined if mangosteen is contraindicated for certain health conditions, but thus far no toxicity has been reported. A reaction with chemotherapy drugs is possible but not well documented. People with diabetes should limit juice intake because of sugar content. Avoid using mangosteen supplements if pregnant or nursing, as safety has not been established. Consult your physician before taking mangosteen supplements to evaluate your benefits and risks.

References

Article reviewed by RayF Last updated on: Mar 28, 2011

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