Mangosteen is a fruit found in Southeast Asia. It is not widely known within America because of import restrictions, but in recent years it has gained popularity because of purported health benefits. While it is recognized as a delicacy, the health claims are not all true.
Facts
The purple mangosteen (Garcinia mangostana) is a sweet tasting fruit. It is believed to have originated in the Sunda Islands of Indonesia. It only grows in tropical countries; temperatures below 40 Fahrenheit will result in the plant's death. Mangosteens are recognized by their deep purple rind and white, fleshy insides. The edible white fruit is segmented into wedges, or arils, which contain hard seeds within. Mangosteens prized for their delicate sweet flavor for centuries. The fruit was banned from being imported in the United States until 2007 for fear of the Asian fruit fly, which would imperil American crops.
Composition
Mangosteens are high in iron and carbohydrates, as well as fibers. They are low in vitamins and minerals. The mangosteen's micronutrient content is low overall, falling 5 percent under their Dietary Reference Intake.
Xanthones
Mangosteens are packed with xanthones, a powerful antioxidant. There are 200 identified natural xanthones, and the purple mangosteen contains 40 of those, more than any other fruit known to man. The majority of those xanthones are found within the edible pericarp or rind of the fruit, rather than the white aril or flesh. Xanthones are plant phenols, or chemicals, found in only a few tropical plants. Research has found that xanthones can aid in boosting the body's immune system. They are often referred to as super antioxidants.
Cancer Prevention
The xanthones found in mangosteens are, according to clinical studies performed by Brunswick Laboratories, useful for preventing cancer. However, xanthone research is still in its infancy and the U.S. government has not backed any of these claims. While the few studies that have been conducted prove promising, there is no certifiable information as to whether consuming mangosteens has any effect in preventing cancer.
Other Benefits
Purported benefits of consuming mangosteens include supporting the immune system, aiding intestinal health, neutralizing free radicals, and the prevention of gum disease, kidney stones, cataracts and even dizziness. According to ancient Asian medical traditions and scientific studies, mangosteens can help maintain a healthier, fresher looking complexion when applied to the skin topically. There is evidence to show that the fruit may also be helpful in weight loss and appetite control. These benefits have not been satisfactorily proven within a clinical setting and research is still ongoing.
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