Quick Summary

Mangosteen (Garcinia mangostana) is a tropical fruit known for bioactive compounds such as xanthones, primarily concentrated in the peel. It has been studied for potential effects on metabolic conditions including type 2 diabetes mellitus and periodontal disease. Preliminary human clinical evidence suggests possible improvements in insulin sensitivity and periodontal health. Additional research has explored its antimicrobial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties, often alongside other herbal extracts. However, most clinical data are limited by small sample sizes, short study durations, and variability in extract preparations, indicating the need for further well-designed trials to confirm efficacy and safety.

What is it?

Mangosteen is a tropical fruit native to Southeast Asia. The fruit’s peel contains a group of bioactive compounds called xanthones, which have attracted scientific interest due to their potential health effects. Extracts from mangosteen peel are used in various forms including dietary supplements, topical gels, and wound dressings.

Traditional Uses

Traditionally, mangosteen has been used in folk medicine for its presumed anti-inflammatory, anti-infective, and metabolic benefits. It has been applied for general health support, management of skin conditions, and oral health issues such as gum disease.

Active Compounds

  • Xanthones: Polyphenolic compounds with antioxidant properties primarily found in the fruit peel.
  • Other polyphenols and flavonoids: Contribute to antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.

Potential Benefits with Evidence Levels

  • Improvement in glycemic control (insulin sensitivity, fasting glucose) in type 2 diabetes mellitus
    Evidence level: Limited human clinical evidence from 2 small studies (1 randomized controlled trial (RCT) and 1 quasi-experimental).
    Details: One RCT demonstrated significant improvement in insulin sensitivity (HOMA-IR reduction of 53.2% vs 15.2%; p=0.004) after 26 weeks using standardized mangosteen peel extract. Another small quasi-experimental study showed reduced fasting blood glucose after 7 days of mangosteen peel decoction. However, these findings are limited by small sample size and heterogeneity of preparations.
  • Improvement of periodontal health parameters
    Evidence level: Moderate evidence from multiple human RCTs and systematic reviews.
    Details: Systematic reviews and meta-analyses report that mangosteen as a local drug delivery gel adjunct reduces periodontal pocket depth and clinical attachment loss, improves gingival indices, and lowers inflammatory and oxidative markers in adults with periodontitis.
  • Antibacterial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory effects relevant to wound healing
    Evidence level: Preclinical and formulation studies; limited human data for wound dressing applications.
    Details: Mangosteen extracts have demonstrated antibacterial activity against bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus and Staphylococcus epidermidis and possess strong antioxidant capacity. Hydrogel dressings containing mangosteen show promise in preclinical wound healing models, though clinical evidence remains preliminary.
  • Potential neuroprotective effect in mild to moderate Alzheimer’s disease
    Evidence level: Limited human clinical trial.
    Details: One RCT using water-soluble mangosteen pericarp extract reported cognitive improvements measured by Alzheimer’s Disease Assessment Scale-Cognitive Subscale (ADAS-Cog) and reductions in oxidative stress biomarkers over 24 weeks in patients with mild to moderate Alzheimer’s disease, with good safety and tolerability.

Side Effects

No serious adverse effects were reported in human clinical trials involving mangosteen peel extracts or gels. Mild adverse events were infrequent and non-serious. However, large-scale and long-term safety data remain lacking.

Drug Interactions

There is no direct clinical evidence from human studies on drug interactions with mangosteen. Due to reports of possible effects on cytochrome P450 enzymes by some Garcinia species in other contexts, caution is advised. The clinical relevance of these potential interactions with mangosteen requires further investigation.

Who Should Avoid It

  • Individuals with hepatic impairment or liver conditions should exercise caution, as comprehensive long-term safety data for mangosteen are limited.
  • People on concurrent drug therapies should consult healthcare providers due to possible drug interaction concerns.
  • Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid use unless under medical supervision due to lack of safety data.

Evidence Limitations

  • Few human clinical trials, mostly with small sample sizes.
  • Short duration of clinical studies limits understanding of long-term effects and safety.
  • Variability in mangosteen extract preparations and dosages complicates standardization and comparison.
  • Most data arise from preclinical and in vitro studies, requiring cautious clinical translation.
  • Limited or no robust data on pharmacokinetics, drug interactions, and contraindications.
  • Lack of clinical data in key populations such as pregnant or breastfeeding women.
  • Need for larger, high-quality randomized controlled trials using standardized extracts with longer follow-up periods.

References

Last Reviewed

April 2024

Informational Disclaimer: This summary is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before using mangosteen or any herbal supplement, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking medications.