Mangosteen Fruit Extract
Also known as: Garcinia mangostana L., Mangosteen, Queen of Fruits, Garcinia mangostana
Overview
Mangosteen (*Garcinia mangostana*) is a tropical fruit native to Southeast Asia, celebrated for its unique flavor and traditional medicinal applications. The fruit's rind, or pericarp, is particularly rich in bioactive compounds known as xanthones, including α-mangostin and γ-mangostin. These xanthones are responsible for many of the extract's purported health benefits. Mangosteen extract has been traditionally used for its antimicrobial, antioxidant, anti-proliferative, anti-carcinogenic, and anti-inflammatory properties. Research on mangosteen extract is relatively advanced, encompassing numerous preclinical studies and some clinical trials. The available evidence, including systematic reviews and in vitro/in vivo studies, suggests a moderate to high level of evidence quality, though more human trials are needed to confirm its efficacy and safety. Mangosteen extract is available in various forms, including capsules, powders, and liquid extracts, derived from the fruit rind.
Benefits
Mangosteen pericarp extract exhibits several evidence-based benefits. It demonstrates significant antioxidant activity, reducing oxidative stress in models such as neurotoxicity studies where α-mangostin mitigated toxin-induced oxidative damage. Systematic reviews indicate its anti-inflammatory potency, showing effectiveness in conditions like obesity, skin diseases, and psychiatric disorders. The extract also displays antimicrobial activity against acne-inducing bacteria, such as *Propionibacterium acnes* and *Staphylococcus epidermidis*, with dichloromethane extracts showing the strongest effects. Furthermore, studies suggest neuroprotective effects, with mangosteen xanthones potentially blocking serotonin type 2A (5-HT2A) receptors and inhibiting cAMP phosphodiesterase, pathways relevant to antidepressant and antipsychotic treatments. Xanthones in mangosteen have also demonstrated antihyperglycemic, antidyslipidemic, and anti-inflammatory effects, potentially benefiting diabetes management. While effect sizes vary, significant reductions in oxidative stress, inflammation, and bacterial growth have been observed in various studies.
How it works
Mangosteen xanthones exert their effects through multiple biological pathways. They interact with signaling pathways by inhibiting cAMP phosphodiesterase, blocking serotonin type 2A (5-HT2A) receptors, and modulating inflammatory pathways. These compounds also act as antioxidants by scavenging free radicals and reducing oxidative stress. The extract interacts with the nervous system through neuroreceptor modulation, with the immune system through anti-inflammatory actions, and with the skin and gut through antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects. Key molecular targets include serotonin type 2A (5-HT2A) receptors, cAMP phosphodiesterase, and various inflammatory mediators. The bioavailability of mangosteen xanthones can vary depending on the extraction method and formulation, but studies suggest that these compounds can be absorbed and exert biological effects in vivo.
Side effects
Mangosteen extract is generally considered safe when used in traditional medicinal doses, but comprehensive safety data from large-scale human trials are limited. Common side effects are not well-documented, but gastrointestinal disturbances are a potential concern due to the high bioactive content. Uncommon side effects could include allergic reactions or skin irritations in some individuals. Rare side effects, though not well-documented, might involve hypersensitivity reactions or interactions with other medications. Potential interactions with antidepressants, antipsychotics, and other medications targeting similar pathways should be considered. Individuals with known allergies to mangosteen or its components should avoid its use. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should exercise caution due to the lack of comprehensive safety data. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional before using mangosteen extract, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking other medications.
Dosage
The minimum effective dose of mangosteen extract varies depending on the specific application. For antibacterial effects, concentrations as low as 3.91 μg/ml have shown activity against *Propionibacterium acnes*. Optimal dosages are not well-established but typically range from 500 mg to 2 grams per day of the extract, depending on the specific bioactive content and intended use. The maximum safe dose is not clearly defined, but doses up to 2 grams per day have been used in some studies without significant adverse effects. Timing can depend on the specific application; for example, antimicrobial effects may be more immediate, while anti-inflammatory effects could take longer to manifest fully. The form of the extract (e.g., dichloromethane, ethanol, or water extract) can influence the bioactive content and efficacy. Bioavailability can be influenced by the extraction method and formulation, with lipophilic solvents potentially enhancing xanthone absorption. A balanced diet and adequate hydration may enhance the extract's bioavailability and efficacy.
FAQs
Is mangosteen extract safe to use?
Mangosteen extract is generally considered safe, but caution is advised regarding potential interactions with medications and allergic reactions. Consult a healthcare professional before use.
When should I take mangosteen extract?
Timing varies; immediate effects may be seen for acute conditions like acne, while chronic conditions may require longer-term use. Follow healthcare provider recommendations.
What results can I expect from using mangosteen extract?
Expected results include reduced inflammation, oxidative stress, and bacterial growth, depending on the specific application. Individual results may vary.
Is mangosteen extract a cure-all?
No, mangosteen extract is not a cure-all. It should be used under the guidance of healthcare professionals, especially for chronic conditions, as part of a comprehensive treatment plan.
Research Sources
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/psychiatry/articles/10.3389/fpsyt.2019.00115/full – This study investigates the neuroprotective effects of α-mangostin, a xanthone found in mangosteen, focusing on its potential in treating psychiatric disorders. The research indicates that α-mangostin can reduce toxin-induced oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction in rat brain tissue, suggesting its possible use in managing conditions related to oxidative stress and neuroinflammation. The study provides valuable insights into the molecular mechanisms through which mangosteen extract may exert its therapeutic effects on the nervous system.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20516704/ – This in vitro study examines the antibacterial activity of mangosteen extract against acne-inducing bacteria, *Propionibacterium acnes* and *Staphylococcus epidermidis*. The dichloromethane extract of mangosteen exhibited strong antibacterial effects, suggesting its potential as a natural remedy for acne. The study highlights the importance of the extraction method in determining the efficacy of mangosteen extract, with dichloromethane showing superior results.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28842267/ – This research explores the potential of mangosteen pericarp extracts to induce apoptosis and inhibit proliferation in SKBR3 breast cancer cells. The study demonstrates that mangosteen extracts have pro-apoptotic and anti-proliferative effects, indicating their potential as an adjunct therapy in cancer treatment. The findings suggest that mangosteen's bioactive compounds may play a role in suppressing cancer cell growth and promoting cell death.
- https://oamjms.eu/index.php/mjms/article/view/8746 – This systematic review assesses the anti-inflammatory potency of mangosteen in various inflammatory conditions. The review includes 24 studies and concludes that mangosteen has significant anti-inflammatory effects, making it potentially beneficial for conditions such as obesity, skin diseases, and psychiatric disorders. The study underscores the importance of mangosteen as a natural anti-inflammatory agent, though it notes the need for more human trials to confirm these findings.
- https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1155/2023/5334312 – This review focuses on the antihyperglycemic, antidyslipidemic, and anti-inflammatory effects of xanthones found in mangosteen, highlighting their potential benefits for managing diabetes and its complications. The review suggests that mangosteen xanthones can improve glucose metabolism, reduce lipid levels, and alleviate inflammation, making them a promising therapeutic agent for diabetes management. The study emphasizes the need for further clinical trials to validate these findings and determine optimal dosages.