Health Benefits of Mangosteen  

Overview 

Mangosteen is commonly referred to as the queen of tropical fruits. Mangosteen originated from Southeast Asia and has a sweet and sour taste. It has a purple colour on the outside and a white fleshy fruit. 

Mangosteen has a rich texture and a slightly sour taste. The commonly consumed part is the fruit rind. However, leaves, seeds and bark also contain medicinal value. The fruit has a hard covering outside, and most people who consumed it described that taste of fruit as a mix of peach, strawberry, pineapple and lychee.   

Nutritional value of Mangosteen 

One cup of mangosteen contains the following nutritional value, as per USDA. 

Nutrient	Nutritional value
Calories	60 g
Fibre	0.8 g
Fat	0.1 g
Protein	0.5 g
Carbohydrates	14.3 g
Vitamin C	5.68 g
Potassium	94.1 g
Calcium	23.5 mg

Health benefits of Mangosteen

Mangosteen is a part of traditional medicine in many parts of Asian countries. Mangosteen is used for various medicinal purposes to treat severe gum infections called periodontitis. It is also used to treat diarrhoea, skin disorders and muscle weakness. Other health benefits of mangosteen are discussed below. 

Contains antioxidants 

Mangosteen is rich in antioxidants that scavenge free radicals. Free radicals can damage the cells and internal organs through oxidative stress. A human study was conducted in 2015, and a group of people were asked to consume mangosteen-based beverages for 30 days.  

After 30 days, scientists analysed the people who consumed mangosteen. Their blood samples were collected and tested. The result showed there was a 15 per cent increase in antioxidant levels. 

Anti-inflammatory 

Mangosteen contains a naturally occurring compound called xanthones, further categorised into two types. The two types of xanthones in mangosteen are alpha and gamma. 

Inflammation is a part of the immune system, and when inflammation occurs, it is the body’s way to remove foreign substances from the body. In some cases, inflammation occurs needlessly. The body continues to remember and causes inflammation, which is called as chronic inflammation. 

Chronic inflammation can lead to health problems like  

• Arthritis 
• Alzheimer’s disease 
• Depression 
• Heart diseases 
• Cancer 

Research determined that mangosteen contains anti-inflammatory properties, which reduces the inflammation signals by 40 per cent. 

Medicinal properties of Mangosteen

Mangosteen contains medicinal properties and is used in various therapeutic drugs. It is also used to treat weak and bleeding gums. A 4 per cent mangosteen medication will help with loose teeth and bleeding gums. It is used in moisturisers for oily skin.  

Low calories 

Mangosteen is low in calories, and 100 grams contains only 60 calories. It does not contain any saturated fats or cholesterol. It is also rich in dietary fibre, which keeps you full for a long time. 

Mangosteen is suitable for people who want to reduce weight as the fibre content prevents them from overeating. Furthermore, the anti-inflammatory effects of mangosteen play an essential role in promoting metabolism and promoting weight loss. 

Blood flow 

Mangosteen contains a compound called xanthones that promotes blood flow and prevents blood clotting. The fruit can stop the process of blood clotting, which easy blood flow.  

So there are chances that the fruit can interfere with medication and lead to excessive blood flow. Additionally, it is advised not to consume the fruit after surgery as it can increase blood flow, which leads to excessive bleeding. 

However, mangosteen consumption promotes red blood cell production. This prevents anaemia. It also protects against blood-related diseases like atherosclerosis, heart congestion, high cholesterol and chest pain. 

Reduces cholesterol 

Mangosteen is low in calories and is free from cholesterol. It also controls the triglyceride level in the blood, preventing any heart-related diseases. 

Acne 

Mangosteen contains natural antimicrobial and antibacterial properties that help treat common skin problems. Research evidence states that consumption of mangosteen can be an effective remedy for acne, oily skin, blemishes and dry skin. 

Owing to its anti-inflammatory properties, mangosteen promotes healthy skin. Regular consumption rejuvenates skin and keeps them healthy from within. Vitamin C in mangosteen promotes collagen formation and reduces fine lines. 

Antioxidants in mangosteen also prevent pigmentation caused due to sun exposure. It prevents irregular skin by minimising photodamage. 

Repairs cells 

Xanthone in mangosteen is highest when compared to other fruits. This helps to repair the cells and prevents oxidative stress. 

It also repairs damaged skin and gives a natural glow to the skin. 

Menstruation 

Mangosteen can be effective during menstruation. It reduces symptoms like mood swings, dizziness and hypertension during menstruation.  

In countries like Malaysia, mangosteen roots are boiled, and decoction is consumed to regulate the menstrual cycle. Regular consumption of fruit can help reduce menstrual disorders. 

Stomach disorders 

Mangosteen leaves can treat disorders related to the stomach, like dysentery, diarrhoea, and urinary infections and treat thrush. 

It may prevent cancer 

Research supports that mangosteen helps protect against certain types of cancers. Research published in NCBI states that mangosteen extract was toxic against breast cancer cell lines. 

Regular consumption of mangosteen helps increase T cells, killing the cancer cells or proliferation of abnormal cells. 

The study conducted in 2012 stated that mangosteen could be beneficial against pancreatic cancer. However, further research is required on the research part. 

Improves Immune System 

A healthy immune system is required for the proper functioning of the body. The immune system is a defence mechanism that protects the body from harmful pathogens and proteins. 

It also contains a good amount of vitamin C, which helps regulate immune functions. Our body will not be able to produce Vitamin C. It is important to consume foods rich in vitamin C to promote health. 

Antibacterial Properties 

Mangosteen contains natural antibacterial properties that inhibit the growth of a broad range of fungi and bacteria. Xanthones are also known as a tricyclic aromatic system linked to antibacterial activity. 

It can provide protection against antibiotic-resistant Staphylococcus aureus and also the normal strain. The fruit extract has also been shown to prevent the growth of Mycobacterium tuberculosis. 

How to eat mangosteen ?

Mangosteen can be consumed by peeling the outer cover. The inside part of the flesh will be arranged in the form of wedges. 

Mangosteen is available as a fruit or in the form of juices. There are also supplements, available. However, when it comes to supplements the nutritious value of the fruit may slightly deteriorate due to processing of the fruit. 

Healthy Mangosteen Recipe 

Mangosteen can be consumed as a fruit or can be included in your diet with salads or other interesting food recipes. 

Thai Style Fruit Salad 

Ingredients required 

Garlic 6 

Lime juice 1/2 tbsp 

Palm sugar 1/2 tbsp 

Nuts as required 

Prawns blanched 5 

Hot chilli 6 

Fish sauce 1/2 tbsp 

Mixed fruits including, mangosteen 2/3 cup 

Cooking instruction 

• Slice all the fruits and veggies like carrots, mangosteen beans, grapes and corn. 
• Grind together chilli and garlic. 
• Add palm sugar, lime juice, chilli, fish sauce and garlic. Mix all the ingredients. 
• To this mixture, add the blanched prawns, and your salad is ready to eat! 

Mangosteen Chia Smoothie Bowl 

Ingredients required 

Mangosteen 2 

Mango 1/2 sliced

Chia seeds soaked in water 1 cup 

Milk 1 cup 

Cooking instructions 

• Blend mangosteen, mangoes, chia seeds and milk in a blender. Blend till it becomes smooth. 
• Add sweetener if required. Honey or jaggery is recommended. 
• Transfer the smoothie to a tall glass. 
• You can garnish with nuts and fruits of your choice and enjoy the goodness of the food. 

Potential drawbacks 

Mangosteen contains various health benefits. However, NCBI states that there is no enough evidence that mangosteen helps with the following diseases and health conditions. 

• Dysentery 
• Diarrhoea 
• Eczema 
• Menstrual disorders 
• Gonorrhoea 
• Tuberculosis 
• Urinary tract infections 

Additionally, NCBI states that mangosteen medication should not be used during pregnancy, with a person with a bleeding disorder or before surgery. It is advised to stop the medication two weeks before surgery as it increases the risk of bleeding during surgery. 

Conclusion 

Mangosteen is rich in nutrients and also offers medicinal value. The roots, leaves and seeds can also be consumed. 

Like the other foods, it also contains its own positives and negatives. The research data is also inadequate. So it is suggested to consume in low quantities.