Mangosteen juice is derived from a tropical fruit that is native to Southeast Asia. It has been hailed for its anti-oxidants -- especially xanthones, which are an organic chemical compound found in some plants. Mangosteen juice is marketed primarily as an anti-inflammatory aid. It is available at many health food stores.
Forms of Mangosteen
The American Cancer Society explains that mangosteen juice can be consumed by itself or mixed with other types of juice. The rind of the fruit may be dried and made into a powder. Its bark can also be used. In addition to being sold as a juice and powder, mangosteen products are available in tablet and capsule form.
Uses of Mangosteen Juice
Although mangosteen has anti-oxidants, as well possible anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer and antihistamine properties, extensive research on the effects this juice is lacking, according to the website Drugs.com. Proponents of mangosteen juice claim that it supports microbiological balance, improves joint flexibility, helps the immune system, eliminates diarrhea and heals infections and tuberculosis. In Asia and the Philippines, where it grows naturally, healers use the plant in a salve for eczema, infections and other skin problems.
Problems or Complications
Because little research has been done on the effectiveness of this substance, not much is known about the effects. Allergies may be possible. In a study published in the "American Journal of Kidney Diseases," it was found that severe lactic acidosis, or excess acid, was associated with mangosteen juice. Additionally, because it is sold as a dietary supplement, it is not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration, and therefore, it may not be safe or effective.
Benefits
A study published in a 2009 "Nutrition Journal" found that a certain brand of mangosteen juice was able to lower levels of a C-reactive protein in overweight and obese people. This protein is a marker for inflammation levels, and lowering it also lowers the risk of heart disease and diabetes. But this was a pilot, dose-finding study, and more research is needed to confirm the benefits of mangosteen juice.
References
- American Cancer Society: Mangosteen Juice
- Drugs.com: Complete Mangosteen Information
- American Journal of Kidney Diseases; Severe lactic acidosis associated with juice of the mangosteen fruit Garcinia mangostana; Wong LP; May 2008.
- Nutrition Journal; Evaluation of Mangosteen juice blend on biomarkers of inflammation in obese subjects: a pilot, dose finding study; Udani JK; October 2009.
- Nutrition Journal; Human clinical study finds benefits linked to XanGo Juice; EurekAlert; Milam; November 2, 2009.
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