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Other common name(s):
xango, mangostan, queen of fruits, numerous brand names
Scientific/medical name(s):
Garcinia mangostana
Description
Mangosteen is a tropical fruit native to Southeast Asia,
which is touted for its antioxidants, especially xanthones (a type of
chemical in certain plants.) Its fruit, including the rind and pulp,
can be pureed together and is sometimes sold as a drink. Mangosteen
juice products may also be mixed with other types of juice. Its rind
may be dried and powdered, and substances are also extracted from its
bark. Mangosteen products are also available in capsule and tablet
form. They are sold in health food stores, via the Internet, and
network marketing.
Despite the name, mangosteen is not related to the mango.
Overview
Although there is no reliable evidence that mangosteen juice,
puree, or bark is effective as a treatment for cancer in humans, its
fruit has been shown to be rich in antioxidants. Very early studies in
the lab suggest that it may have promise as a treatment to be applied
to the skin for acne. Early small studies in the lab and on rats
suggest that further research should be done to find out if it can help
with cancer prevention in humans.
How is it promoted for use?
In the United States, it is taken by mouth and is supposed to
support microbiological balance, help the immune system, improve joint
flexibility, and provide mental support. Some proponents claim that it
can help diarrhea, infections, tuberculosis, and a host of other
illnesses. In countries where the tree grows, various parts of the
plant are used by native healers.
What does it involve?
The juice or puree is eaten or drunk, or dried mangosteen is
taken as a capsule or tablet, often along with other herbs, fruits, or
plants. In Asia and the Philippines, the rind may be steeped in water
to make tea. Some folk healers prepare an ointment or salve to apply to
the skin for conditions such as eczema, injuries, and infections.
Others boil the leaves and bark of the tree to make a medicinal drink
or to mix with other herbs to apply to wounds. The roots may be boiled
to make a drink for women with menstrual problems.
What is the history behind it?
Parts of the mangosteen tree, including the fruit and bark,
have been used in folk medicine in Asian countries for many years.
Mangostin was identified as a xanthone in mangosteen in the mid-1800s
and found to have anti-inflammatory effects in rats in the late 1970s.
Today, mangosteen is sold in the United States mainly through a network
marketing system, in which independent distributors, rather than
stores, buy and sell mangosteen juice. Many mangosteen products are
also available from health food stores and via the Internet.
In 2006, the FDA sent a warning letter to one mangosteen vendor that
the product was being illegally marketed. The FDA observed that the
product was being promoted to treat illness, for which it had not been
proved safe and effective.
What is the evidence?
Like many other plants, extracts of mangosteen have shown in
lab tests that they can stop certain bacteria and fungi from growing.
One lab study suggested that mangosteen extract inhibits the growth of
acne-causing bacteria. It has not been tested on people to find out if
it helps acne in humans. In a lab dish, it also showed activity that
slowed the growth of certain cancer cells. A small study on cancer
inhibition in rats suggested that the rind of the mangosteen may reduce
the risk of cancer cell growth in the bowel. However, mangosteen’s
cancer inhibitory effect has not been tested in humans.
Are there any possible problems
or complications?
No ill effects have been reported to date. As with all
plants, allergies may be possible. Because of antioxidant effects,
mangosteen supplements might interfere with radiation therapy or
chemotherapy, possibly making these treatments less effective. While
this is only a theory, people getting treatment for cancer should speak
with their doctors before taking this supplement. Other interactions
are not well described. Always talk with your doctor and pharmacist
about all the supplements and herbs you are taking.
Relying on this type of treatment alone, and avoiding or delaying
conventional medical care, may have serious health consequences.
Additional Resources
More Information From Your
American Cancer Society
The following information on complementary and alternative
therapies may also be helpful to you. These materials may be ordered
from our toll-free number (1-800-ACS-2345).
References
Chomnawang MT, Surassmo S, Nukoolkarn VS, Gritsanapan W.
Antimicrobial effects of Thai medicinal plants against acne-inducing
bacteria. J
Ethnopharmacol. 2005 Jul 8.
Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center. Mangosteen, Clinical
Summary. Available at: http://www.mskcc.org/mskcc/html/69295.cfm.
Accessed July 13, 2007.
Moongkarndi P, Kosem N, Luanratana O, Jongsomboonkusol S,
Pongpan N. Antiproliferative activity of Thai medicinal plant extracts
on human breast adenocarcinoma cell line. Fitoterapia. 2004;
75:375-377.
Nabandith V, Suzui M, Morioka T, et al. Inhibitory effects of
crude alpha-mangostin, a xanthone derivative, on two different
categories of colon preneoplastic lesions induced by 1,
2-dimethylhydrazine in the rat. Asian
Pac J Cancer Prev. 2004;5:433-438.
Mangosteen. Available at:
www.quackwatch.org/01QuackeryRelatedTopics/DSH/hm.html. Accessed July
13, 2007.
US Food and Drug Administration. Cyber letters. Available at:
http://www.fda.gov/foi/warning_letters/g6031d.pdf. Accessed July 13,
2007.
Note: This information may not
cover all possible claims, uses, actions, precautions, side effects or
interactions. It is not intended as medical advice, and should not be
relied upon as a substitute for consultation with your doctor, who is
familiar with your medical situation.
Revised: 07/20/2007
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