mangosteen

Mangosteen (Man-Go-Steen)
A dark reddish-purple fruit of southeastern Asia with a thick rind and juicy flesh with flavors akin to peach and pineapple. The Mangosteen fruit is born from an evergreen-type tree that requires ultra-tropical climate in order to grow, reaching heights from 20 to 80 feet high. The origins of the Mangosteen are unknown, but are currently found in Southeast Asian countries such as Thailand, Vietnam and Burma. Considered a superfruit for its nutrient richness and antioxidant strength, the mangosteen has been used in traditional medicine in Asia—ranging from powdered form to combat dysentery to ointment for eczema and other skin disorders.

The Power of Mangosteen

The rind and flesh of the Mangosteen have been found to contain an abundant amount of Xanthones (anti-oxidants), which laboratory studies have suggested to have anti-cancer effects. Researchers have isolated and tested two of most beneficial Xanthones (Alpha Mangostin and Gamma Mangostin) found in mangosteen and discovered that they have significant effect on cardiovascular health. Some of the mangosteen medicinal properties may be attributed to tannins in the rind, which have anti-inflammatory, antiseptic and astringent properties that have been used for conditions such as diarrhea, irritable bowel syndrome, and skin conditions.