Mangoteen is relatively unknown in the western world, but is popular in many parts of Asia. It is an ultra tropical fruit that comes from the tree Garcinia mangostana, which is native to parts of Southeast Asia including Thailand, Malaysia, the Philippines and India. The rind typically develops a deep purple color when ripe and the flesh is bright white.
The taste is sweet and sour and the fruit is sometimes referred to as the “Queen of Fruits,” perhaps due to its regal appearance.
Let’s take a look at some of the health benefits of mangosteen.
Rich in Antioxidants.
Mangosteen contains a unique antioxidant profile amongst fruits. Antioxidants reduce the impact of potentially harmful molecules known as free radicals, which can be linked to various chronic diseases.
Mangosteen contains various nutrients with antioxidative capabilities, such as folate and vitamin C. It also has xanthones, which is a unique plant compound with strong antioxidant properties. The antioxidant activity of xanthones has been proven to be anti-aging, anti-cancer and antidiabetic in their effects.
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May Have Anti-Cancer Effects
Diets rich in fruits and vegetables, including mangosteen, are powerful in fighting against the proliferation of cancer cells. The peculiar plant compounds in mangosteen, such as xanthones, are anti-inflammatory and antioxidant and can help ward off the growth of cancer cells.
Test tube studies have shown that xanthones can fight off cancer cells in the stomach, breast tissue, and lungs.
May Promote Weight Loss
Mangosteen is believed to help individuals lose weight. Studies on mice being fed a high-fat diet have shown that the control group gained significantly more weight than the group fed the mangosteen extract.
Experts theorize that the fruit’s anti-inflammatory effects promote fat metabolism and prevent weight gain.
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Boosts Immunity
The vitamin C and xanthones present in mangosteen can help improve the immune system. Xanthones help fight free radicals and vitamin C helps in the production of white blood cells (leukocytes) that are responsible for good immunity.
Good for Your Skin
Mangosteen’s high antibacterial and antimicrobial properties, along with xanthones, make it useful in reducing the damage caused by the sun on your skin. Mangosteen has also been used traditionally to treat acne. The ability to hunt down free radicals and the suppression of the production of Cytokines can prevent you from developing acne.
Mangosteen can also help reduce the signs of aging brought on by oxidative stress. The antioxidant Catechin is particularly effective in this regard and is present in the mangosteen fruit. It can help reduce wrinkles and other signs of aging.
Helps With Stomach Issues
Mangosteen is high in fiber and can help with digestive problems such as constipation. Consumption of the pericarp and rind are also useful, which is good for your intestines.
To Sum Up
Mangosteen is a delicious tropical fruit native to Southeast Asia and India and is now grown in tropical regions around the world. Aside from its striking deep purple appearance and delectable taste, mangosteen possesses an array of health benefits.
The unique plant compound xanthones are responsible for many of these medicinal applications, such as its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties. Mangosteen is also rich in vitamin C which boosts your immune system. Mangosteen is also effective in treating digestive issues such as constipation and diarrhea. If that wasn’t enough, this powerhouse fruit also does wonders for your skin and can be used to treat acne.
