Health Benefits of Mangosteen
Rose May Pimentel in Health
Mar 25, 2021 • 3 min Read
Mangosteen is one of the best-flavored fruits in the world and one of the most praised tropical fruits due to its nutritive values. It is the national fruit of Thailand. Mangosteen is the greatest source of the powerful xanthones which have several benefits including its anti-inflammatory properties, anti-allergic, and anticonvulsants, among others.
Mangosteen is usually eaten fresh as dessert. Here in the Philippines, people employ a decoction of the leaves and bark as a febrifuge to treat thrush, diarrhea, dysentery, and urinary disorders.
Here are some of the amazing health benefits of mangosteen, from Organic Facts:
1. Anticancer Properties
The pericarps of mangosteen contain xanthones which exhibit anticancer, anti-inflammatory, and anti-bacterial effects. As per research, they exhibit the potential to be developed as agents to prevent cancer.
2. Relief from Diarrhea and Dysentery
A traditional remedy for diarrhea is steeping the fruit rind in water overnight. This decoction is given to adults and children who have chronic diarrhea. For relief from dysentery, the dried fruit and rind are powdered and taken.
3. Anti-Inflammatory Properties
The extracts of mangosteen have anti-allergy and anti-inflammatory properties and they inhibit the release of histamine and prostaglandin associated with inflammation in the body.
4. Skin Care
The properties of mangosteen may help in reducing the risk of various skin conditions such as inflammation, skin aging, eczema, allergies, and bacterial infections. A study suggests that mangosteen has properties that can prevent skin cancer.
5. Boosts Immunity
Mangosteen is rich in nutrients, minerals, vitamins, and xanthones which help in boosting the immune system. These nutrients protect the body from ailments that weaken the immune system.
6. Antioxidant Properties
Mangosteens are known to contain powerful antioxidants, which are useful to the immune system and the entire body. These antioxidants contain cell boosters which contain various properties that have medicinal value, deemed as a healing fruit, and can be used to reverse the effects of diseases. One published study shows the daily consumption of mangosteen drink improved antioxidant levels in the body.
7. Speeds Up Healing
Mangosteen is beneficial to expedite the healing of wounds. The leaves and bark of the tree can be mixed with other medicinal herbs and applied to the wounds for faster recovery. The medicinal drink can be prepared by boiling the leaves and the bark of the tree.
8. Alleviates Menstrual Problems
Mangosteen root is traditionally thought to help in regulating the menstrual cycle in women. It also eases the uncomfortable symptoms that often occur before menstruation.
9. Protects Heart Health
Mangosteens help reduce the risk of stroke or myocardial infarction. Findings of a study published indicate that mangosteen may have a cardioprotective effect on antioxidant tissue defense system and lipid peroxidation during a stroke.
10. Controls Diabetes
According to a paper published, one of its uses being to manage diabetes. Another study published found that extracts of the fruit could be used as a supplement for managing obesity, insulin resistance, and inflammation.
11. Weight Loss
Incorporating mangosteen in the diet is thought to be effective in weight loss in many cultures. The various nutrients found in this tropical fruit also ensure good health and well-being.
Indeed, mangosteen is regarded as the “Queen of Fruits”. Add this pulpy fruit to your daily diet and make the most of these nutritional and health benefits.
Stay healthy and safe!
