12 Health Benefits of Purple Mangosteen

Purple Mangosteen (scientific name Garciniamangostana) has been referred to as the “queen of fruits” or “fruit of the gods” in traditional medicine by the ancient people of Southeast Asia. The tropical, sweet, slightly sour-tasting exotic fruit is rarely heard, given its import-only status and rarity. The fruit offers various health benefits and is a potential antidote for cancer. (1)

List of 12 amazing health benefits of Purple Mangosteen

1. Excellent for weight loss and weight management

The nutritional composition of purple Mangosteen makes it an excellent agent for weight loss and weight management. Being low in calories and rich in fiber makes one feel full and heavy after a small meal. The fibrous intake will also make you feel fuller for longer and eat less. Making purple Mangosteen a regular part of your daily diet and a healthy exercise regime can help you shed kilos quickly.

2. Bolsters immunity and keeps sickness away

Xanthone and vitamin C in Mangosteen help boost the body’s resistance to infections and free radicals. They help protect the body from various diseases, and regular intake can boost your body’s defense mechanism.

3. Effective against cancer

Garcinia mangostana has anticancer properties due to presence of α-mangostin. α-mangostin targets proteins and pathways that are important in controlling cancer cells. Xanthones in Mangosteen also lead to apoptosis in cancer cells. Some of them induce cancer cell death in vivo. The fruit extracts have anticancer properties due to a synergistic effect of the xanthones. [2]

4. Has anti-inflammatory properties

Traditional medicine has been using purple Mangosteen as an anti-inflammatory agent for ages, with proven benefits. Alpha- and gamma-mangosteens present in the fruit have been shown to exhibit anti-inflammatory properties. Since Mangosteen is also a histamine agent, it heals any allergies and reduces related inflammation.

5. Improves heart health and controls blood pressure

Mangosteen can be a boon for heart patients. Mangosteen contains antioxidants that fight free radicals and prevent oxidative stress. Xanthones are powerful antioxidants and have been studied to prove that they can reduce heart attacks. The potassium content controls heart rate and blood pressure, thus preventing coronary blockages and heart diseases. (3)

6. It lowers blood sugar and is good for people with diabetes

Mangosteen has proven sugar-lowering abilities- thanks to oligomeric proanthocyanidin complexes (OPCs) and tannic acid. Purple Mangosteen prevents starches from breaking down into glucose and prevents a spike in the blood’s sugar levels. A study has concluded that it can effectively treat type 2 diabetes as the prescription drug acarbose. (4)

7. Promotes healthy skin, fights acne

Healthy skin is anyone’s dream. And this dream could well come true with the regular intake of Mangosteen. The antibacterial properties of Mangosteen prevent acne and breakouts, while Vitamin C prevents aging and sun damage. It also helps as an anti-aging agent, and the xanthones in the fruit help repair and regenerate damaged cells. The antioxidants present in it also firm up the skin. It also reduces melanin production and helps in skin whitening. All these are possible due to xanthones, tannins, and proanthocyanins. [5]

8. Fights tuberculosis

Mangosteen extract has antimicrobial properties for Mycobacterium tuberculosis. When added to materials like polyacrylonitrile fiber, it helps minimize bacterial contamination. This aids in the prevention of tuberculosis. It is used in medical applications like facemasks and respirators. [6]

9. It has antihistamine properties and fights allergies

Many people suffer from various allergies regularly, seasonal allergies being the most common. One cannot and must not depend on medicines for these life-long allergies. Mangosteen is beneficial in fighting allergies by releasing histamine through ethanol extract. Histamine reduces allergic symptoms such as inflammation and provides relief.

The mangosteen fruit has α-MG and γ-MG that possess anti-inflammatory properties. When α-MG and γ-MG were given to mice in a study suffering from allergic asthma, they helped reduce the inflammation caused by asthma. It was concluded in the study that Mangosteen can help in managing inflammation related to asthma. [7]

10. Good for eye health

Given modern life and the exposure to screens almost 24/7, our eyes endure a lot of strain daily. Mangosteen is a rich source of vitamins C and A, which can boost your eye health. Regular consumption may fight night blindness and free radicals, strengthen eyesight, and prevent cataracts and other eye diseases.

Mangosteen fruit extract possesses antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. Due to it, it helps protect the eyes from damage and disorders. The antioxidants in Mangosteen help keep the eyes healthy and prevent issues that harm them. [8]

Ways to Incorporate Mangosteen into Your Diet

• Fresh Consumption: Enjoy mangosteen fresh by peeling the rind and eating the juicy segments.
• Smoothies: Blend mangosteen pulp with other fruits for a refreshing smoothie.
• Salads: Add mangosteen segments to fruit salads for a tropical twist.
• Desserts: Use mangosteen in desserts like sorbets, ice creams, or tarts.

Nutritional Profile of Purple Mangosteen (Per 100g)

Many people have described Mangosteen’s flavor as sweet, tangy, and melting in the mouth, similar to ice cream. Now that does sound delicious! Along with taste, the fruit comes packed with many nutritional benefits. A cup of about 100 grams of fresh purple Mangosteen contains the following – (source)

Note: Values are approximate.

The fruit is an excellent choice for those watching their weight and looking for vitamin C or A benefits, folate, and antioxidants.

FAQs for Purple Mangosteen?

What is Purple Mangosteen?

Most of us have heard of mangoes, but Mangosteen is a rare fruit. Classified as an exotic fruit, it is seasonal and not readily available. The fruit grows on evergreen tropical trees that produce about 6 to 25 m tall and has a rind-colored, deep reddish-purple when ripe. Believed to have originated in Indonesia, it is cultivated on islands in Southeast Asia, India, some Africa and Florida regions, and Puerto Rico.

In India, the fruits are known by many names like –

• Hindi: Mangustan
• Bengali: Kao
• Telugu: Ivarumamidi
• Malayalam: Kaattampi
• Kannada: Murugala Hannu
• Gujarati: Kokum
• Marathi: Kokam, Ratamba

The purple Mangosteen tastes sweet, with a sour hint, and the flesh is just like the citrus fruits – juicy, fibrous, and filled with fluids. The rind is challenging but can be opened easily. The rind is inedible when the fruit gets ripe.

The fruit was banned in the U.S. until October 2007, but the ban has been lifted.

What are the side effects of Mangosteen?

Adequate research has not been done on the effect of Mangosteen on pregnant women or breastfeeding mothers. It is better to avoid this fruit during this period to be safe.

The fruit could also slow blood clotting for people suffering from bleeding disorders. It might increase the risk of bleeding.

People who are about to go for surgery should also avoid this fruit. Taking it might increase the chances of bleeding after or during the surgery. Avoid taking the fruit a minimum of 2 weeks before surgery.

Can mangosteen help with weight loss?

Yes, mangosteen may support weight loss by reducing inflammation and improving fat metabolism. Studies show its xanthones help regulate fat storage and promote calorie burning. Mangosteen also contains fiber, which helps control appetite by making you feel fuller. For best results, pair mangosteen with a balanced diet and exercise.

Does mangosteen improve skin health?

Mangosteen contains antioxidants that protect skin from damage and reduce aging signs like wrinkles and fine lines. Its antibacterial properties may also help fight acne-causing bacteria. Regularly eating mangosteen or using mangosteen-based skincare products can make your skin healthier and more radiant. Many people also use it to soothe minor irritations.

How does mangosteen support brain health?

Mangosteen supports brain health by providing potassium and folate, which improve brain function and reduce cognitive decline risk. These nutrients increase blood flow to the brain, improving memory and focus. People who include mangosteen in their diet may experience better mental clarity and alertness over time.

Can mangosteen help with digestion?

Yes, mangosteen improves digestion with its high fiber content. Fiber promotes regular bowel movements and prevents constipation. Mangosteen also contains anti-inflammatory compounds that soothe the digestive tract. Including mangosteen in your meals can support a healthier gut and improve overall digestion.

How to Select and Store Mangosteen

• Selection: Choose fruits with a deep purple rind and a bright green stem. The rind should yield slightly to gentle pressure, indicating ripeness.
• Storage: Store mangosteens in a cool, dry place. If not consumed immediately, they can be refrigerated to extend freshness for a few days.

References

1. Department of Biological Sciences, Universidade Estadual de Santa Cruz, Ilheus, BA – https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25229510/
2. University of Illinois at Chicago, College of Pharmacy, Department of Pharmacy Practice – https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9597473/
3. Centre for Advanced Studies in Botany, University of Madras, Guindy Campus, Chennai, India – https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17994576/
4. Department of Chemistry, National University of Singapore, Republic of Singapore. – https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17960880/
5. Faculty of Agro-Industry, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50100, Thailand – https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8747190/
6. Institute of Systems Biology (INBIOSIS), Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM), 43600 Bangi, Selangor, Malaysia – https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6562293/
7. Interdisciplinary PhD Program in Nutrition, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA – https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3775248/
8. Institute of Systems Biology (INBIOSIS), Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM), Bangi, Selangor, Malaysia – https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6368837/