Mangosteen (Garcinia Mangostana) Fruit Rind Extract
Also known as: Mangosteen, mangosteen fruit rind extract, mangosteen pericarp extract, Garcinia mangostana
Overview
Garcinia mangostana, commonly known as mangosteen, is a botanical supplement derived from the pericarp (outer peel) of the mangosteen fruit. This extract is rich in bioactive compounds, primarily xanthones, with α-mangostin being a notable constituent. Traditionally, it has been utilized for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties, and it shows potential antidiabetic effects. Research into mangosteen extract is ongoing, with a growing body of preclinical studies and some human clinical trials. While systematic reviews and meta-analyses exist for its antimicrobial and neuroprotective effects, the overall evidence quality varies, with many human studies being small-scale or lacking rigorous controls. It is categorized as a polyphenol-rich extract.
Benefits
Mangosteen fruit rind extract offers several evidence-based benefits. Its potent antioxidant activity has been demonstrated in clinical trials, showing an increase in plasma and red blood cell antioxidant capacity and a reduction in oxidative stress markers like malondialdehyde (MDA) in both humans and animal models. A meta-analysis of α-mangostin, a key compound in mangosteen, revealed antimicrobial activity comparable to commercial antibiotics against various bacteria and fungi, indicating strong in vitro efficacy. Furthermore, animal studies suggest significant antidiabetic potential, with mangosteen pericarp extracts reducing fasting blood glucose, HbA1c, and improving lipid profiles and antioxidant enzyme levels in diabetic rodent models. A systematic review also highlights its neuroprotective effects, attributed to its antioxidative and anti-inflammatory properties, which reduce apoptosis and oxidative damage in neuronal cells and animal models of neurodegeneration.
How it works
The primary mechanism of action for mangosteen extract, particularly its key compound α-mangostin, involves potent antioxidant pathways. It effectively scavenges free radicals and reduces lipid peroxidation, thereby mitigating oxidative stress. Its anti-inflammatory effects are mediated through the inhibition of pro-inflammatory cytokines and associated signaling pathways. The antimicrobial properties are thought to arise from its ability to disrupt microbial cell membranes and inhibit biofilm formation. Neuroprotection is linked to these antioxidative and anti-inflammatory actions, which collectively reduce apoptosis and oxidative damage in neuronal cells. The absorption and bioavailability of xanthones like α-mangostin are considered moderate, and their metabolism and pharmacokinetics in humans require further detailed investigation.
Side effects
Mangosteen fruit rind extract is generally considered safe at the doses studied in clinical trials, with no major adverse effects frequently reported. However, due to the limited number and scale of human studies, common mild side effects are not well documented. There are currently no established significant drug interactions or contraindications, but caution is advised given the scarcity of comprehensive clinical safety data. Specific populations, such as pregnant or lactating individuals and children, lack sufficient safety data, and therefore, its use in these groups is not recommended without medical supervision. Long-term safety data in humans are also insufficient, meaning its safety profile for extended use remains largely uncharacterized.
Dosage
There is no standardized dosing for mangosteen fruit rind extract due to wide variations in formulations and dosages used across human clinical trials. Animal studies often utilize pericarp extracts standardized to α-mangostin content, with extrapolated human equivalent doses generally ranging from 100 mg to 500 mg daily. However, these extrapolations require clinical confirmation. The timing of administration and the specific formulation (e.g., extract versus whole rind powder) can significantly influence bioavailability and efficacy. Co-administration with food or other antioxidants may also impact absorption. Upper limits and safety thresholds for long-term use have not been definitively established in humans, underscoring the need for further research to provide clear, evidence-based dosing guidelines.
FAQs
Is mangosteen extract effective for diabetes?
Preclinical evidence from animal studies supports its potential to lower blood glucose and improve lipid profiles. However, robust human randomized controlled trials are currently lacking to confirm these effects clinically.
Can mangosteen replace antibiotics?
In vitro studies show α-mangostin has antimicrobial activity comparable to commercial antibiotics. However, its clinical efficacy as an antibiotic substitute in humans is unproven and requires further research.
Is it safe for long-term use?
Long-term safety data in humans are currently insufficient. While short-term use appears safe based on available studies, more research is needed to assess its safety profile over extended periods.
When can I expect to see benefits?
Antioxidant effects have been observed within weeks in some human studies. However, metabolic and neuroprotective benefits may require longer-term supplementation, and more research is needed to establish timelines.
Research Sources
- https://japsonline.com/abstract.php?article_id=3250&sts=2 – This systematic review of animal and clinical studies investigated the antioxidant effects of mangosteen extract. It found that mangosteen extract increased antioxidant capacity and reduced lipid peroxidation markers in both human and animal models, despite some human studies having limitations like small sample sizes and statistical analysis issues.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9219858/ – This meta-analysis of 8 in vitro studies evaluated the antimicrobial activity of α-mangostin. It concluded that α-mangostin exhibits antimicrobial activity comparable to commercial antibiotics against various microbial cultures, with no significant statistical difference in effectiveness, though it noted the lack of clinical trial data.
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11479905/ – This review focused on animal studies investigating mangosteen's antidiabetic potential. It reported significant reductions in fasting glucose, HbA1c, and improved lipid profiles, along with enhanced antioxidant enzymes and renal/hepatic protection in diabetic rodent models, highlighting strong preclinical evidence but no human RCTs.
- https://www.thieme-connect.com/products/ejournals/abstract/10.1055/a-2665-2226 – This systematic review explored the neuroprotective effects of mangosteen extracts and α-mangostin using in vitro and animal models of neurodegeneration. It identified antioxidative and anti-inflammatory pathways as key mechanisms, leading to reduced apoptosis and oxidative damage in neuronal cells, while noting the absence of human clinical trials.