Mangosteen Fruit: Uses, Benefits, Side Effects and More!

Mangosteen is a tropical fruit native to Southeast Asia, especially popular in countries like Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia. It is prized for its juicy white pulp and unique flavour, but more importantly, parts of the mangosteen plant—including the fruit, rind, twigs, and bark—have been used in traditional medicine for centuries. These components are believed to help with various ailments, although scientific evidence supporting many of these uses is currently insufficient or limited.

People have used mangosteen in traditional remedies for conditions such as diarrhea, gonorrhea, thrush, tuberculosis, menstrual disorders, cancer, osteoarthritis, and dysentery. Additionally, it is thought to boost immune function and elevate mood. Some also apply mangosteen topically to treat eczema and other skin conditions. However, these claims lack consistent clinical backing, and more human studies are needed to confirm their efficacy and safety.

Mangosteen juice has become a popular health beverage, often sold under names like “Xango juice.” It is marketed as being beneficial for treating diarrhea, menstrual problems, urinary tract infections, and tuberculosis. While early studies have suggested potential antimicrobial properties, these uses should not replace evidence-based treatment. Always consult a healthcare provider before using mangosteen for medical conditions.

Nutritional Value of Mangosteen per 100gram:

Mangosteen is a fruit packed with nutritional goodness. It contains protein (0.5 g), fibre (1.7 g), and carbohydrates (18.4 g), which provide energy and support digestion. Additionally, it’s a source of essential minerals like calcium (9 mg), phosphorus (14 mg), and iron (0.5 mg), which are essential for bone health and blood circulation.

Nutrient Name	Value
Carbohydrates	18.4 g
Calcium	9 mg
Phosphorus	14 mg
Iron	0.5 mg
Vitamin C	2 mg
Vitamin B1 (thiamin)	0.09 mg
Vitamin B2 (riboflavin)	0.06 mg
Vitamin B5(niacin)	0.1 mg
Protein	0.5 g
Fibre	1.7 g

Mangosteen fruit benefits

Mangosteen contains several beneficial compounds, most notably xanthones, a class of polyphenols with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and potential anticancer properties. The white pulp of the fruit is rich in these bioactive compounds. Additionally, it provides a modest amount of vitamins A, B-complex (including thiamine, niacin, riboflavin, and folate), vitamin C, potassium, and zinc.

The fruit also contains minerals such as calcium, magnesium, sodium, phosphorus, and compounds like carotene and cryptoxanthin. These nutrients are known to support immune health, skin health, and cellular repair. Mangosteen juice is often promoted as an “anti-aging” drink in traditional medicine due to its high antioxidant content, although its anti-aging claims remain largely anecdotal.

Mangosteen skin benefits

1. Acne

Mangosteen is thought to contain natural antibacterial and antimicrobial properties, which may help with acne and other skin conditions. Some small studies have shown that xanthones can inhibit acne-causing bacteria, although more robust clinical data are needed to confirm these effects in humans. 

2. Cell repair

The rind of mangosteen contains a high concentration of xanthones, which are believed to help repair damaged skin cells. These compounds may also offer protective effects against oxidative stress, contributing to overall skin health. 

3. Bodyweight

Some research has suggested that xanthones may have a modest impact on fat metabolism. However, claims that mangosteen directly burns fat or significantly aids weight loss are not scientifically substantiated. Including mangosteen in a healthy diet may be beneficial, but it is not a magic solution for weight management. 

4. Menstruation

Mangosteen can help with premenstrual symptoms such as dizziness, mood changes, and hypertension. In Malaysia, a decoction of mangosteen root is used to regulate menstruation. While anecdotal evidence exists, clinical trials are lacking to support its role in hormonal regulation.

5. Stomach disorders

The mangosteen is commonly grown in the Philippines. Its leaves and bark are used to cure diarrhea, dysentery, thrush, and urinary problems. While there are antimicrobial properties noted in lab studies, these uses have not been rigorously tested in humans.

6. Anti-ageing

Mangosteen contains antioxidants like catechins (also found in green tea) that help neutralise free radicals, potentially slowing down signs of ageing. While antioxidants are beneficial, the claim that mangosteen can make you look younger “indefinitely” is exaggerated. 

7. Increases energy

Some people report feeling more energised after consuming mangosteen, likely due to its natural sugars and micronutrients. However, claims that it significantly boosts energy have not been scientifically verified. 

8. Viral infections

Mangosteen xanthones may have antiviral properties in lab settings, but there is no solid clinical evidence that it effectively treats viral infections in humans or removes carcinogens from the skin. 

Health benefits of mangosteen

1. Antioxidants

Mangosteen contains a class of naturally occurring polyphenol chemicals called xanthones. This fruit contains two forms of xanthones: alpha and gamma mangosteen. Xanthones and their derivatives  have anti-inflammatory properties.  These antioxidants have therapeutic characteristics that help to repair cells that have been damaged by free radicals, reduce aging, and protect against degenerative diseases, as well as physical and mental degeneration.

2. Calorie consumption

This fruit is low in calories (63 calories per 100 g) and cholesterol-free. It is, nevertheless, high in dietary fibre (approximately 13% of RDA in 100 g), which is beneficial for people who are concerned about gaining weight.

3. Vitamin C

Mangosteens are high in vitamin C, with about 12% of the recommended daily allowance (RDA) per 100g. Vitamin C, as a powerful water-soluble antioxidant, protects against flu-like pathogenic agents while also scavenging damaging pro-inflammatory free radicals. 

4. Circulation

Mangosteen promotes red blood cell production and helps  prevent anaemia. It helps to protect us from diseases like atherosclerosis, excessive cholesterol, heart congestion, and severe chest pains by improving blood flow by encouraging blood vessels to dilate.

Mangosteen fruits contain Vitamin C, which helps prevent cataracts by boosting blood flow to the eye. 

5. Cholesterol is reduced

Some believe that mangosteen improves circulation by promoting red blood cell production and preventing anaemia. While it does contain small amounts of iron and vitamin C—both of which aid iron absorption—claims that it prevents serious cardiovascular diseases need more scientific validation. 

6. Tuberculosis

The fruit contains antimicrobial compounds that may offer some protective effects. However, mangosteen is not a substitute for antibiotics or standard tuberculosis treatment. 

7. Cancer

In vitro studies show that mangosteen extract can inhibit cancer cell growth and reduce oxidative stress. However, these effects have not been conclusively proven in human studies, and mangosteen should not be used in place of conventional cancer therapies. 

8. Hypertension 

Mangosteen provides potassium, which helps regulate blood pressure and supports cardiovascular function. It also contains small amounts of magnesium and manganese. These minerals contribute to electrolyte balance and vascular health. 

9. Anti-Inflammatory

Mangosteen may help reduce inflammation due to the presence of xanthones and flavonoids. Some studies have explored its potential use in reducing pain in conditions like sciatica, although these findings are preliminary and not widely confirmed..

10. Alzheimer

There is limited evidence suggesting antioxidant-rich fruits like mangosteen may offer neuroprotective benefits. However, claims that it can treat Alzheimer’s disease are unproven and speculative. 

Mangosteen side effects

Mangosteen is generally safe when consumed as a fresh fruit in moderation. However, the rind and extracts can cause allergic reactions in some individuals. People prone to hypersensitivity should approach mangosteen with caution. It is not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women due to insufficient safety data. Always consult a physician before starting any supplement or new food, especially if you have underlying health conditions. Buy medicines online through Truemeds at the best price and discounts. For all the latest coupons and offers on branded and generic medicines, follow us on Instagram and Facebook.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

References

• Palakawong, C., & Delaquis, P. (2018). Mangosteen processing: A review. Journal of Food Processing and Preservation, 42(10). https://doi.org/10.1111/jfpp.13744

• Ovalle-Magallanes, B., Eugenio-Pérez, D., & Pedraza-Chaverri, J. (2017). Medicinal properties of mangosteen (Garcinia mangostana L.): A comprehensive update. Food and Chemical Toxicology: An International Journal Published for the British Industrial Biological Research Association, 109(Pt 1), 102–122. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.fct.2017.08.021