Botanical Overview
Mangosteen (Garcinia mangostana) belongs to the Clusiaceae family. Limited but reliable traditional records indicate this plant has recognized medicinal applications in one or more healing traditions. The garcinia family (Clusiaceae) includes trees and shrubs with opposite, leathery leaves and resinous sap that is often yellow. The flowers are typically showy with numerous stamens, and the fruits are often fleshy capsules. Many species produce xanthones and polycyclic polyprenylated acylphloroglucinols (PPAPs) with significant biological activity.
General Description
It has been cultivated extensively in tropical Asia since ancient times. It is grown mainly in Southeast Asia, southwest India and other tropical areas such as Colombia, Puerto Rico and Florida, where the tree has been introduced. The tree grows from 6 to 25 m tall.
Family Context
The Clusiaceae family is primarily tropical. Notable medicinal members include:
- Common St. Johnswort — 36 documented uses
- Mamey — 23 documented uses
- Mesua ferrea — 16 documented uses
- Brindleberry — 5 documented uses
Geographic Distribution
Mangosteen has been recorded in 10 countries and territories worldwide, including Australia, Brazil, Costa Rica, Indonesia, India, and others.
Traditional Uses
Mangosteen has been traditionally used for digestive health, respiratory conditions, and skin and wound care, among other applications.
Digestive health.
- Diarrhea
- Dysentery
- Ache(Stomach)
For digestive complaints, the herb is typically prepared as a tea or decoction taken before meals. The bitter compounds stimulate digestive secretions and improve nutrient absorption. Some traditions use the powdered root or leaves in small doses as a stomachic tonic.
Respiratory conditions.
- Catarrh
Respiratory conditions are addressed through steam inhalation of the herb’s vapors or internal use as a warm tea. The hot infusion acts as an expectorant, helping to loosen phlegm and clear congestion. Some traditions combine it with honey for coughs.
Skin and wound care.
- Eczema
- Itch
- Skin
- Wound
For skin conditions, the fresh or dried plant is applied topically as a poultice, wash, or compress. A strong decoction can be used to clean wounds and sores. The antimicrobial properties help prevent infection while promoting tissue repair.
Active Compounds
Phytochemical research has identified 30 compounds in this species, including a diverse array of phytochemical classes (see the Complete Chemical Inventory below for the full list).
The identified compounds include the following categories:
- Flavonoid: antioxidant compounds that protect cells from oxidative damage
- Phenolic: antioxidant compounds that neutralize free radicals