Mangosteen or purple mangosteen is the common name of a luscious fruit, which is scientifically termed Garcinia mangostana. In the vernacular languages, it is called “Mangustaan” in Hindi, “Ivarumamidi” in Telugu, and “Kaattampi” in Malayalam.
It is grown widely in the tropical regions of Southeast Asian nations namely Thailand, Malaysia, Philippines and India. It is a seasonal fruit, harvested and consumed extensively in the hot summer months.
The hard, outer shell of this exotic fruit is deep purple in colour and can be opened easily, showcasing the inner white edible flesh with small almond-shaped seeds. The seeds, however, are extremely bitter and hence inedible.
Mangosteen is renowned across the globe for its bright and attractive appearance, pleasant fragrance, sweet and delicious flavour and most importantly, for its high nutrient content.
It is inherently low in calories, aiding in weight loss regimes and provides natural sugars that can be easily absorbed and supply instant energy. Fibers in this obscure fruit aid in digestion while the noteworthy amounts of B vitamins elevate metabolism. In addition, mangosteen is plentiful in vitamin C, which aids in speeding up wound healing, as well as strong antioxidants, which prevent injury to body cells.
The unique properties of mangosteen have made it a preferred summer fruit for many, to reap its amazing advantages for physical and mental well-being.
Significant Merits Of Mangosteen For Overall Well-Being
Promotes Heart Health
Mangosteen ensures proper blood flow to all organs of the body, particularly to the heart, by dilating blood vessels. This hypotensive quality of mangosteen is very valuable in remedying high blood pressure symptoms such as an intense high bp headache, stress and palpitations. It also controls the levels of triglycerides, regulates heart rate and aids in maintaining normal blood pressure. It is hence highly effective in preventing severe cardiac ailments such as chest pain, heart congestion and atherosclerosis.
Boosts Immune Function
Being abundant in vitamin C, mangosteen offers protective antioxidant properties and builds an efficient immune system. Antioxidants eliminate harmful free radicals from destroying the healthy cells in the body, while the proteins called antibodies defend the system against viruses which cause diseases such as pneumonia, flu and common cold.
Relieves Body Pain
Mangosteen possesses vast amounts of xanthones, a naturally occurring group of plant compounds which are potent anti-inflammatory molecules. Xanthones function in reducing the pressure in stressed out regions of the human system. This vital trait in mangosteen makes it a remarkable remedy for relieving unbearable body pain due to arthritis, sciatica and menstrual cramps.
Enhances Brain Activity
Packed with flavonoids (powerful antioxidants) and folate (vitamin B9), mangosteen assists in the smooth transmission of signals via nerves leading to the brain. Moreover, it prevents the accumulation of plaques in brain cells and also improves memory. It is hence very useful in augmenting cognitive capabilities in neurodegenerative conditions like Alzheimer’s disease.
Slows Down Ageing
Mangosteen is a powerhouse of an antioxidant called catechin, which is also present in green tea. This molecule protects healthy cells in the skin from deterioration and promotes the flow of blood and nutrients to the skin cells. Mangosteen also combats bacterial skin infections, thereby guaranteeing a youthful, radiant and flawless look.
Lowers Blood Sugar Levels
Mangosteen not only offers a delightful taste but also supplies profuse amounts of dietary fibers and xanthones - powerful phytonutrients with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Soluble and insoluble fibers help regulate appetite, control untimely cravings, promote digestion, augment energy metabolism. Besides, xanthones in mangosteen eliminate detrimental free radicals, toxins from the body and elevate insulin synthesis, functions for better processing of blood glucose to be assimilated by the muscle cells. This helps to keep blood sugar levels in check and effectively manage diabetes symptoms.
Nourishes Skin Tissues
Blessed with ample quantities of vitamin C, B vitamins, as well as xanthone, flavonoid and catechin antioxidants, mangosteen confers superb incentives for rejuvenating skin texture. Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that scavenges free radicals from the body and blocks them from oxidising healthy skin cells and B vitamins, particularly folate, boost blood circulation for the renewal of a new layer of skin tissues. Xanthones and flavonoids lower inflammation and heal acne, scars, shield skin from harmful UV rays of the sun, while catechins deliver excellent anti-ageing benefits by minimising wrinkles, sagging, fine lines for youthful, bright, clear skin.
Prevents Incidence Of Cancer
Mangosteen is bestowed with a plethora of bioactive components derived from plants – phytonutrients, which possess great anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and anti-cancer attributes. Compounds including polyphenols, xanthones, tannins, procyanidins, anthocyanins display tremendous potential in destroying tumour cells and halting the metastasis of cancer cells within the body. Moreover, they considerably suppress the formation of malignant tissues in numerous key vital internal organs such as the breasts, lungs, liver, kidneys, stomach, intestines and pancreas, to avert the risk of cancer.
Additional Health Benefits The Fruit Comes With
Promotes Digestive And Gut Health
Mangosteen is packed with fiber. Fiber is essential for digestive health, and high-fiber diets can promote smooth bowel movements. It also supports your healthy gut which is an essential component of the digestive system. The fruit can also benefit your immune health by combating potentially harmful bacteria owing to its antibacterial properties
Reduces Inflammation
The xanthones found in mangosteen have anti-inflammatory properties that may play a role in reducing inflammation. This property reduces your risk of inflammatory diseases, such as various types of cancer and diabetes. Moreover, a higher-fiber diet may help reduce your body’s inflammatory response and Mangosteen is a rich source of fiber
Fights Depression And Anxiety
Extracts of mangosteen and the fruit have proven helpful in preventing mental decline, decreasing brain inflammation, and improving symptoms of depression and anxiety.
Contraindications:
Consume only fresh fruit, when in season, and avoid if the mangosteen stock in your local store looks old, dry, and blotched.
Mangosteen causes allergies in some people and hence it is advised for you to steer clear of this fruit, in case you are prone to hypersensitivity.
Mangosteen is generally not recommended for pregnant and breastfeeding women. Always consult your doctor before consuming the fruit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Eating Mangosteen Cause Side Effects?
Yes, mangosteen may cause side effects in some individuals, particularly when consumed in large quantities.
Gastrointestinal issues like diarrhea or constipation.
Allergic reactions in sensitive individuals, such as skin rashes or swelling.
Interference with medications, especially blood thinners, as mangosteen contains compounds that can alter blood clotting.
Pregnant and breastfeeding women should consult a doctor before consuming mangosteen.
Why Is Mangosteen So Expensive?
Mangosteen is considered a costly fruit due to several factors:
Mangosteen trees are slow-growing and require specific tropical conditions. They take 8-10 years to start bearing fruit.
The fruit spoils quickly, increasing transportation and storage costs.
Mangosteen is primarily grown in Southeast Asia, with exports subject to high tariffs and shipping expenses.
The fruit's unique taste and health benefits make it highly sought after, contributing to its premium pricing.
How Many Mangosteens Can I Eat in a Day?
You can safely consume 1-2 mangosteens daily, depending on your diet and health condition.
Is Mangosteen High in Sugar?
Yes, mangosteen contains natural sugars, but the amount is moderate compared to other tropical fruits.
A single mangosteen (about 100 grams) contains approximately 13-16 grams of sugar.
(This article is reviewed by Sowmya Binu, Food and Health Expert)
Author Profile:
Preeti Sharma:
Preeti Sharma has a master’s in electronic media and mass communication and certification in short-term writing from Florida. With close to a decade of experience, she specializes in crafting engaging blogs on beauty, veterinary care, and healthy cooking. Preeti is proficient in video editing tools and produces captivating and informative content across multiple platforms.
References:
Biological Activities and Bioavailability of Mangosteen Xanthones: A Critical Review of the Current Evidence
Fabiola Gutierrez-Orozco 1, Mark L Failla 1,2,*
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3775248/
Daily consumption of a mangosteen-based drink improves in vivo antioxidant and anti-inflammatory biomarkers in healthy adults: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial
Zhuohong Xie 1, Marsha Sintara 1, Tony Chang 1, Boxin Ou 1,
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4534161/
