Asian Traditional Medicine · Southeast Asian

Mangosteen (Garcinia mangostana)

Provisional Moderate Scorebotanical

Hermetica Superfood Encyclopedia

Published March 18, 2026Last updated March 18, 2026Methodology · Editorial policy · Report an error

Evidence review status: unreviewed

Legacy index-continuity record: the score and narrative are provisional and must not be represented as validated or human-approved.

Review flags: AWAITING_SEMANTIC_VALIDATION

Provisional Summary

Mangosteen (Garcinia mangostana) is a tropical fruit containing xanthones, particularly α-mangostin, which demonstrate potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. These bioactive compounds work by inhibiting NF-κB signaling pathways and scavenging reactive oxygen species.

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Screened PMID Records

Reported Benefits

Pending

Synergy Review

At a Glance

CategoryAsian Traditional Medicine

GroupSoutheast Asian

Public Score StatusProvisional Moderate

Primary Keywordmangosteen benefits

Mangosteen close-up macro showing natural texture and detail — rich in antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial

Mangosteen (Garcinia mangostana) — botanical close-up

Reported Benefits (Provisional)

Supports heart health

Mangosteen's xanthones improve blood flow and reduce cholesterol levels, lowering heart disease risk. - Enhances skin health: Rich in antioxidants that protect against UV damage and improve skin elasticity. - Boosts immune function: Contains vitamin C, which enhances immune defense by increasing white blood cell production. - Promotes weight loss: The fruit's fiber content aids in digestion and helps maintain a healthy weight. - Reduces inflammation: Xanthones in mangosteen have anti-inflammatory effects, potentially easing joint pain. - Supports mental health: Its antioxidants combat oxidative stress, which is linked to cognitive decline. - Aids in blood sugar control: Compounds in mangosteen help regulate insulin, reducing diabetes risk.

Origin & History

Natural habitat

Mangosteen is a tropical fruit native to Southeast Asia, particularly Thailand and Malaysia. It is known for its sweet and tangy flavor and is often referred to as the 'queen of fruits.'

“Mangosteen has been used in traditional Southeast Asian medicine for centuries. It is cherished for its taste and is often used in cultural and religious ceremonies.”Traditional Medicine

Research Narrative (Provisional)

Studies on Mangosteen have highlighted its xanthones, which may have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. However, more research is needed to confirm these benefits.

Preparation & Dosage

Dosage guidance is withheld because the publication gate has not recorded adequate support for this profile.

Nutritional Profile

{"macronutrients": {"carbohydrates": "17.91 g per 100 g", "fiber": "1.8 g per 100 g", "protein": "0.41 g per 100 g", "fat": "0.58 g per 100 g"}, "micronutrients": {"vitamin_C": "2.9 mg per 100 g", "vitamin_B9 (Folate)": "31 \u00b5g per 100 g", "potassium": "48 mg per 100 g", "calcium": "12 mg per 100 g", "magnesium": "13 mg per 100 g"}, "bioactive_compounds": {"xanthones": "76 mg per 100 g", "catechins": "present in trace amounts"}, "bioavailability_notes": "The bioavailability of xanthones may be enhanced by the presence of dietary fats. Vitamin C is water-soluble and readily absorbed, while the fiber content aids in digestion and nutrient absorption."}

Reported Mechanism (Provisional)

Mechanism of Action

Mangosteen's primary bioactive compounds, α-mangostin and γ-mangostin, inhibit nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) activation, reducing inflammatory cytokine production. These xanthones also activate Nrf2 pathways, enhancing cellular antioxidant enzyme expression. The compounds demonstrate cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) inhibition and modulate MAPK signaling cascades.

Clinical Narrative (Provisional)

Small-scale human studies (20-60 participants) show mangosteen extract may reduce inflammatory markers like C-reactive protein by 15-30% over 8-12 weeks. Limited trials suggest modest improvements in oxidative stress biomarkers and skin elasticity measures. However, most research consists of in vitro and animal studies, with human clinical evidence remaining preliminary and requiring larger, longer-term trials for definitive health claims.

Also Known As

Garcinia mangostanaPurple mangosteenQueen of fruitsMangisManggisSementahMang cut

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These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

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