The mangosteen, scientifically known as Garcinia mangostana, is a tropical fruit native to Southeast Asia. It has been prized for centuries for its delicious taste and plethora of health benefits. The fruit has a dark purple outer skin and a white, tangy flesh on the inside. Despite its name, the mangosteen is not related to the mango at all. It belongs to the Clusiaceae family, and it includes fruits like tamarind and kokum.
While the mangosteen may be relatively unknown to some, it has gained popularity in recent years due to its potential health benefits. In this blog post, we will explore the nutritional value of the fruit, how it is grown and cultivated, its culinary uses, and its traditional medicinal uses.
Nutritional Powerhouse: The Health Benefits of Mangosteen
Rich in Antioxidants
Antioxidants are compounds that help protect our cells from damage caused by free radicals. These free radicals can cause oxidative stress, which has been linked to chronic diseases such as cancer, heart disease, and Alzheimer’s. This fruit contains a variety of antioxidants, including xanthones, flavonoids, and phenolic acids. Xanthones, in particular, have been found to have potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
According to a study published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, it had the highest antioxidant activity among 20 tropical fruits tested. Another study published in the Journal of Medicinal Food found that a mangosteen extract was able to reduce oxidative stress in rats with induced diabetes. These studies suggest that the high antioxidant content may have protective effects against various chronic diseases.
Boosts Immune System
Another benefit of the high antioxidant content in this fruit is its ability to boost the immune system. Antioxidants help protect our cells from damage, which in turn helps keep our immune system strong. Additionally, they are rich in vitamin C, which is essential for a healthy immune system and can also act as an antioxidant.
Anti-Inflammatory Properties
Inflammation is a natural response by our body to protect us from injury or infection. However, chronic inflammation can lead to a host of health problems. They contain compounds with anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce inflammation in the body. A study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology found that a mangosteen extract reduced inflammation in rats with induced colitis.
Aids in Digestion
They are a good source of dietary fiber, which is essential for maintaining a healthy digestive system. Fiber helps regulate bowel movements and can prevent constipation. It also feeds the beneficial bacteria in our gut, which helps maintain a healthy balance of gut flora. In traditional medicine, mangosteen has been used to treat diarrhea and other digestive issues.
Potential Cancer-Fighting Properties
Some studies have suggested that this fruit may have anti-cancer properties. A 2018 review article published in Frontiers in Pharmacology discussed the potential of xanthones in this fruit for cancer prevention and treatment. The article highlighted that mangosteen extracts have shown promising results in inhibiting the growth of various cancer cells in laboratory studies. However, more research is needed to determine the efficacy of mangosteen in treating or preventing cancer in humans.
From Fruit to Flavor: Exploring the Culinary Uses of Mangosteen
Mangosteens have a unique flavor profile that is often described as sweet and tangy with a hint of citrus. The flesh of the fruit is juicy and slightly fibrous, similar to a lychee or grape. It is commonly eaten fresh, but can also be used in various dishes and beverages.
Fresh Consumption
The most common way to enjoy mangosteen is by eating it fresh. To open a mangosteen, you can use your hands to gently twist the top off, revealing the white segments inside. Each segment contains a seed, which should not be consumed. The flesh can be eaten as is or added to salads, smoothies, or desserts.
Juices and Smoothies
Mangosteen juice is a popular beverage in Southeast Asian countries. The juice is made by blending the flesh of the fruit with water and straining out any seeds or fibrous bits. It can be enjoyed on its own or mixed with other fruits for a refreshing drink. It is also commonly added to smoothies for an extra boost of nutrients.
Traditional Dishes
In traditional Thai cuisine, it is used to make a dessert called “mangosteen custard.” The fruit is pureed and used to make a custard-like filling that is then poured into a steamed pastry shell. In Indonesia, it is used in savory dishes such as fish curries or salads.
Mangosteen in Traditional Medicine: A Historical Perspective
Anti-Inflammatory and Analgesic Properties
One of the most common uses of this fruit in traditional medicine is for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. The fruit, bark, and leaves of the tree have been used to treat conditions such as arthritis, muscle pain, and skin inflammation. In Thai traditional medicine, mangosteen is also used to alleviate symptoms of tuberculosis and dysentery.
Antimicrobial and Antiparasitic Properties
Mangosteen has also been used to treat various infections due to its antimicrobial and antiparasitic properties. The rind of the fruit, in particular, has been found to have potent antibacterial effects against both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria. In traditional medicine, it has been used to treat parasitic infections, such as tapeworms and intestinal worms.
Other Uses
Other traditional medicinal uses of this fruit include treating diarrhea, dysentery, and other digestive issues. It is also believed to have laxative and diuretic properties. Mangosteen has also been used topically to treat skin conditions like eczema and acne.
Conclusion
The mangosteen is truly a tropical treasure, with its delicious taste and potential health benefits. From being rich in antioxidants and boosting the immune system to its traditional medicinal uses and unique flavor, this fruit has much to offer. Whether eaten fresh or used in various dishes and beverages, mangosteen is a versatile and nutritious addition to any diet. Further research into its properties and uses may reveal even more benefits of this tropical treasure.