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Garcinia Mangostana Extract

Also known as: Mangosteen, Queen of Fruits, Mangosteen extract, α-mangostin, Garcinia mangostana

Overview

Garcinia mangostana, commonly known as mangosteen, is a tropical fruit indigenous to Southeast Asia. The primary extract is derived from its pericarp, which is abundant in bioactive compounds such as xanthones, especially α-mangostin. This extract is utilized in traditional medicine and dietary supplementation for its variety of pharmacological benefits. Clinical research has illuminated its antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetic, and cholesterol-lowering properties, and it is also investigated for its role in cardiovascular health and as an antioxidant. The body of existing literature spans clinical trials, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses, indicating a moderate level of research maturity, though the inconsistency in study designs necessitates cautious interpretation of the findings.

Benefits

Garcinia mangostana extract offers a spectrum of health benefits proven through research. Prominently, α-mangostin demonstrates significant antimicrobial effects, showing efficacy comparable to standard antibiotics without a statistical difference in effectiveness (p > 0.05). The extract plays a vital role in cardiovascular health, contributing to reductions in lipid levels and blood pressure, emphasizing its significance in treating high-risk cardiovascular patients. In diabetic populations, the extract enhances lipid profiles and diminishes inflammatory markers. Secondary benefits include antioxidant effects, where the extract mitigates oxidative stress, and improvements in muscle strength observed in specific exercise studies. The evidence is robust, although heterogeneity and potential biases are present in the existing trials.

How it works

The biochemical actions of Garcinia mangostana primarily involve its constituent, α-mangostin. It exerts antimicrobial activity by disrupting the cell membranes of pathogens and inhibiting key microbial enzymes. Its anti-inflammatory effect is mediated by suppression of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α and IL-6, enhancing insulin sensitivity, which is particularly relevant in diabetes management. Moreover, its antioxidant properties stem from scavenging free radicals and diminishing oxidative stress pathways, contributing to the prevention of atherosclerosis and related conditions. Additionally, the extract influences metabolism, improving lipid profiles and aiding in blood pressure reduction through interconnected body systems.

Side effects

The safety profile of Garcinia mangostana is generally favorable when adhered to recommended dosages. Common side effects, albeit limited, include gastrointestinal discomfort, such as nausea and diarrhea, occurring in over 5% of users. Less frequent adverse reactions (1-5%) include allergic responses and skin rashes. Severe hypersensitivity reactions are rare but should be acknowledged. Potential drug interactions may arise with anticoagulants and antidiabetic medications due to its biological activity. Pregnant or nursing women, as well as individuals with known allergies to xanthones, are advised to exercise caution. Furthermore, patients with chronic diseases, such as diabetes or cardiovascular conditions, should consult healthcare providers before commencing supplementation.

Dosage

Dosage recommendations for Garcinia mangostana extract are contingent upon the health effects desired. For antimicrobial efficacy, studies suggest a minimum effective dose of 10-20 mg/kgBW of α-mangostin. Optimal dosages for cardiovascular and anti-inflammatory benefits range from 500 mg to 2000 mg of the extract daily, correlating to α-mangostin content between 3.5% and 24.42%. While studies indicate tolerable upper limits around 2000 mg/kgBW per day, specific bioavailability and absorption variances must be considered, typically prompting oral administration once or twice daily. Formulation factors (capsules, tablets, etc.) influence the absorption rates, potentially necessitating food interaction considerations.

FAQs

How safe is Garcinia mangostana extract?

Garcinia mangostana extract is generally safe when consumed in recommended doses, although individuals with chronic conditions or on medication should consult healthcare providers.

When should I take the extract?

The extract can be administered orally, with timing adjustments based on health goals, typically taken once or twice daily.

What effects can I expect?

Users may experience antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant benefits, alongside improvements in cardiovascular health and metabolic outcomes.

Is Garcinia mangostana a cure for diseases?

No, while it possesses various health benefits, it should be used as part of a broader health strategy, not as a standalone cure.

Research Sources

https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35740124/ – A systematic review identified the antimicrobial efficacy of α-mangostin against various microbes, indicating significant effects comparable to antibiotics, with moderate bias in studied designs.
https://www.cochranelibrary.com/content?templateType=related&urlTitle=%2Fcentral%2Fdoi%2F10.1002%2Fcentral%2FCN-01755424&doi=10.1002%2Fcentral%2FCN-01755424&p_p_id=scolariscontentdisplay_WAR_scolariscontentdisplay&_scolariscontentdisplay_WAR_scolariscontentdisplay_action=related-content&p_p_lifecycle=0&p_p_mode=view&type=central&contentLanguage= – This RCT-based analysis highlighted significant reductions in inflammatory markers and lipid profiles among high-risk cardiovascular and type 2 diabetes patients using Garcinia extract.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32951714/ – Toxicity studies in animal models established LD50 and NOAEL for α-mangostin, affirming safety thresholds but highlighting the lack of human data for full safety characterization.
https://www.cell.com/heliyon/pdf/S2405-8440(23)03252-8.pdf – The study reviewed pharmacological properties, supporting antioxidant benefits of Garcinia extract, while suggesting it may enhance muscle strength in resistance-trained individuals.