Mangosteen, also known as the purple “Queen of Fruits”,  is of the tropical evergreen tree Garcinia mangostana, thought to be native to the Southeast Asian Islands.

Fruit explorer David Fairchild wrote that Queen Victoria offered 100 pieces of silver for the small purple fruit with a green top, that looks a lot like a charm in a video game. This may be where the nickname comes from, either way, it seems she knew something of its real value.

She now grows mainly in Southeast Asia, Southwest India, and other tropical areas such as Panama, Costa Rica, Colombia, and Puerto Rico, where the tree has been since included. In these areas, and historically the fruit is touted as some of the best-tasting fruit around.

The New York Times (2006) did a colorful expose on the first bite from delicious best mangosteen, that Mr. Crown excitedly took, a fruit of a long series of trials and tribulations to get the species into the U.S. Florida Ecology. A story that details the difficulties for diverse horticulture in zones governed by heavy policy and red tape.

Now importation is legal and approved but this fruit must be irradiated in order to sterile pests, and this affects fruit quality. Moreover pronounces the need for freedom to responsibly cultivate.

Drinks may not endure this abuse, although it is important to look at juice preservatives and shelf times.

The exact origins of the purple globe are unknown due to its widespread cultivation since ancient times, but it is believed to have been somewhere between the Sunda Islands and the Moluccas [1].

More recently there has been over 200 million dollars in recorded drinks sales that contain the mangosteen [2]. It was also the most valuable Indonesian export of the last decade [A].

Hello July. Hello to the mangosteen, the incredible “Queen of Fruits,” it is so nice to see you. Your shell makes for a magnificent fertilizer for many of the plants on our team. Your delicious fruit holds so many vitamins and antioxidants, and with just a few down the hatch before the gym, I notice I hit the bag just a little harder.

Nearing the end of August of 2013 the LA Times announced the Queen was coming to 7 locations and would be available at $14.99 a pound.

On our farm, we use the whole thing. The shells are great fertilizer and contained compost additives and when in their respective season we do a few applications with them.

There is value in the shell as a drying or vitamin-rich chalk agent through processing. For this reason, it is the base of a successful and expensive new acne skincare product by Skin Owl.

The fruits are delicious and we pretty much each them fresh, maybe in a smoothie. The nice little ball-sized casing is great for snack transport. This “exocarp” layer protective case preserves the life of the fruit inside very well. Be advised once you crack it the purple juices can stain clothing.

Throughout Panama and Costa Rica today you can pick up mangosteens all along the road at stands, and certainly in big bushel baskets from markets.

The tree is easy to start from seed and I keep in the nursery until it’s pretty big generally.

Timber is dark and heavy, likely to sink in water. It can be used in carpentry and furniture as dark medium-hard wood.

Another anti-cancer constituent, the xanthones, and other various essences within the Queen are nothing short of “royal doctoring.” The fruit is a sure-fire muscle strength enhancer; mix in some cinnamon. {x}

Mangosteen Fruit from San Isidro, CR Market $4 kilo, Panama $2 kilo.

Let us check out the best mangosteen products available now.

MANGOSTEEN RANKINGS

1. Bulk Supplements

This is the bulk buy number one best mangosteen recommendation. We have established this stuff is worth having and very valuable. Get the Kilo of it and make it a part of diet design. The dried powder state makes it easy to include in smoothies, teas, and bakes.

2. Mango -xan Drink

For those who are living the high life and want a good bottled product for their mangosteen intake, Mango-xan, is a rich drink with no artificial sweetener or additive, bottled mangosteen drink that ships as four large 25.35 fl. oz. bottles ready for the fridge.

3. Terrasoul Superfoods

If you are looking for the pack sized, small family company pouch of powder, this is you.

4. Mojo Body

Amazon Choice pericarp capsules, 1500mg.

5. Royal Tropics

Powdered Queen of Fruits 150g.

6. Xango

Stock up with the large order of some high rated refrigerator and lunch box ammo.

7. Omura tea

I don’t do tea myself, but I do realize it’s a popular time. Over 400 happy tea timers.

8. Rainforest Superfood

We are foliar feeders. Hibiscus is a good matchup here in this topical.

9. Gopals

100% pure juice. A little pricey, a little new to the market but well-reviewed and really a great way to get this nutritional wonder essence.

Excellent source of vitamins, minerals, natural flavonoids, xanthones, proanthocyanidins, and catechins. This low-calorie drink is also rich in complex carbohydrates and fiber, but low in fat and with no cholesterol.

This Asia sourced potent immune-boosting effect, can have anti-histamine effects, may support healthy weight management, healthy cholesterol, and healthy blood sugar levels.

10. Solaray

This small company product has a good 50 happy customer reviews. New to the market and very well priced.

One client of the product said that “I have been drinking a shot glass every day for about 15 yrs & it prevents my joints from aching & also my restless legs in long rides in the car! When I’m out of it, the pain returns within a few days…so I try to keep my pantry stocked so I don’t miss a day.”

MANGOSTEEN BENEFITS

Anti Cancer properties verified in follow up research concluding that “anti-metastatic potential of mangosteen xanthones (a highly bioactive compound) was shown to be mediated by the inhibition of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP) activities which is expected to result in less adhesion, invasion, and migration of cancer cells treated. Anti-inflammatory. [2]

There have been over 31 evaluations and tests done on the positive effects of the mangosteen and her one of a kind properties. [B]

Farms, harvesters, and possessors are finding endless use of the strategic crop, ranging from top livestock feed to fertilizer [3].

High in folate, something harder for teen girls 14 -18 as well as women in adult ages,  to get enough of and something the U.S. Department of Health finds modern diet insufficient of, stating that most folate for people comes from supplements and vitamins.

Of course, this is something the Nutritional Diversity diet concept can help fulfill, especially a planned one with mangosteen and other strategically chosen species such as beef liver, darker leafy greens, oranges, or black-eyed peas. [AR,1]

The Queen has been found in the scientific study likely to treat colon cancer. [4] Tumorous cancer and another anti-cancer potential, also as potent nanocarrier to anticancer drugs. [5, a]

Encapsulation using nano fibrillated cellulose effectively protected the encapsulated vitamins against environmental stresses which occur in industrial food production (such as pH changes, salt addition, and thermal processing). Moreover, nano fibrillated cellulose extracted from mangosteen rind is a nature-derived emulsifier that is environmentally friendly.

Indications that the Queen of Fruits may help other living and dried essence efficiently process in the system and make her a key benefit as a Nutritional Diversity diet include. [6]

Inhibiting effect to the Dengue virus and studies indicate a good antiviral treatment for the issue as well. [7] The same type of effects were shown live against malaria. [8]

As a topical the Queen has worked anti-acne activity, is studying at times combined with cream agents such as aloe. [9] Expect to see her on the beauty scene, the powerful health agent has worked well as pericarp bath scrub here in the nature farms.

She also showed potential in blocking the production in Staph (Staphylococcus pseudintermedi) infection as a crude extract. [10, B]

Gingivitis and strep throat inhibitor Garcinia mangostana using peel extract. [11]

Results suggested that the use of γ-mangostin from the mangosteen pericarp against R. solanacearum may be used as a natural bacteriostatic agent in agriculture. These examinations mapped xanthones from the mangosteen pericarp that inhibit the growth of ralstonia solanacearum, one of the most destructive bacteria in agriculture settings. [12]

These same xanthones help protect against kidney disease nutritionally. [13]

The xanthones also showed to significantly treat diabetes in animal studies. [14] Further studies are called for regarding the heavy diabetes treatment potential of the species. [15, B]

The present study showed that the combined effect of the fruit juice mixtures of Actinidia deliciosa (Kiwi fruit) and Garcinia mangostana was found to be a better treatment for postmenopausal osteoporosis when compared to the pericarp extract of Garcinia mangostana. [16] This could have something to do with a Queen’s interest…

Here is a cool and interesting study on malaria that combines it with artimisin, which is of the oriental plant artimisen but we think the ambrosia peruvianna as a whole is a better selection in treating heavy conditions such as cancers or malaria. [17]

A new prenylated xanthone, mangaxanthone B and a new benzophenone, mangaphenone, were isolated along with two known xanthones (2014), mangostanin and mangostenol, from the stem bark of Garcinia mangostana. The biological evaluation of these compounds is underway. [18]

Combined with cinnamon extracts supplementation is effective in increasing muscle strength, muscle size and, total lean mass, as well as endurance performance. After prolonged use such as 42 days, testosterone levels had improved in animal tests. [19]

There is a need for new pharmacological treatments for people with schizophrenia that target alternate mechanisms of action to current treatment options.

There is evidence of anomalies in redox biology and inflammation in schizophrenia, including the presence of oxidative stress particularly implicating the glutathione system; changes in oxidative status with treatment; and evidence that other glutathione and redox-active agents have therapeutic value. Preclinical evidence suggests a range of compounds in mangosteen may directly address these anomalies and efficacy should be investigated in a well-powered trial. [20]

In addition to treating schizophrenia, the wonderous purple ball purports to solve certain neurogenerative disorders and bipolar disorder. Taken together, the theoretical biological rationale of psychiatric disorders, bioactivity of mangosteen pericarp extract and the available preclinical data, support the therapeutic potential as an adjunctive psychiatric treatment. [21]

More closely over 24 weeks of either 1,000 mg mangosteen pericarp may have implications for improving treatment outcomes for those with bipolar disorder and may contribute to our understanding of the pathophysiology of bipolar depression. [22]

Contributing to the prevention of DNA damage-caused disease by neutralizing free radicals derived by either cellular metabolism or external agents, mangosteen extract, or isolated active compounds thereof may thus hold promise for pharmaceutical or nutraceutical applications. [23]

MANGOSTEEN SIDE EFFECTS

There could be some mitochondrial development stoppage, which is suggestive that mangosteen consumption could be very well aided with other combinations of plant life.

As with anything new, start with a small amount and go slowly towards larger servings.

MANGOSTEEN EXPERIENCE

The mangosteen is one of these fruits I use to explain that there is an essence that is not captured by science. In other words, the value of the fruit cannot be determined by science or taste only, there is an unmeasurable spirit, if you will of the species that is functional just not visible or measured so much in a modern scientific way.

This fruit has its fans. Those who love her, love her and they can’t wait for her to come out in the day! Over the years here I have heard a myriad of different claims to wonderous health benefits and folks feeling better for different reasons. It’s as if the Queen as they call her knows how to go in and fix and support what is needed! Maybe it’s for the real deal, bust the wheel helpful ability that they give her so much rank. That is my feeling about it anyway.

I have experimented with the Mangosteen shell material as a fertilizer for several different species with potent results. I certainly love the taste of the small gem that has been praised by cultures for centuries, and so the shell piles up. I simply blend it in water, mix with some soil or sawdust, and give a light top layer to as many plants as possible to find which ones love it the most.

As of now, the blended mangosteen shell works excellently on the best coffee plants, so good I wonder if it could help monoculture coffee farms leave behind chemicals (with permaculture conversion definitely) faster.

It also works great on plantains and bananas, and in starter buckets for small home farms with vegetables as well as domestic vegetable rows.

The ground pericarp can go really well around plants a bit too wet to keep some water off them and give a dry but nutritious element at the same time.

I am sure the right mix and even ferment, could spell more superpowers around this queen. Based on the study data above; fermented pericarp experiments could be especially unlocking to athletic performance applications.

Mostly in Asia, Mangosteens have been loved and cultivated for thousands of years. Interestingly, as much as the fruit is appreciated in each culture, it’s information on historical use is rarer than she is.

For many years Mangosteen fruit was unavailable in the United States, and so was it’s cultivation. The excuse is given; the tree harbors pests.

It takes a long time for a tree to get big, and they want to be in the tropics, but once they do grow large which can be done with the right techniques in 5 to 12 years. Once very large, they produce a lot and they are big beautiful trees that reach the upper canopy layers of permaculture.

“Everybody who is fighting you isn’t your enemy, everybody who is helping you isn’t your friend” – Mike Tyson

The fact that importation of the almost unknown gem of the fruit world, the mangosteen was restricted, contrasted with the long time importation of coffee with no import tax, makes a case for food industry governance itself pushing malnutrition diets and ingredients. It’s all very confusing.

With sensible, experienced permaculture methods mangosteens can be optimally cultivated.

MANGOSTEEN DISCUSSION

Dysentery was treated in the modern alternative medical use of Mangosteen notably including the shell, which has higher doses of its nutrients, much higher in fact. In markets across Costa Rica you can purchase the shell dried and ground to a powder as a home-made nutritional supplement.

The hype is here in Panama, Colombia, and Costa Rica over these things. I heard from one American ‘ex-pat,’ that these mangosteens were full to the brim with cancer cures and vitality to measure up for royalty. On written investigation studies find nothing special in the purple ball. High amounts of tannic acid, are claimed by the health department.

Going on all the mangosteen love, and the rumors we heard, we went fair rounds with the little power ball. Now after reading studies and documents would argue that the value recognized by all is an essence indescribable by modern scientific methods – yet none the less a powerful essence.

The nutritional values of the mangosteen as science currently dissects and displays them, are low.  This being said, the delicious part of the fruit is like eating a few grapes. Good but not that much material. After a snack session with many of lady mangosteens, depending on how much exactly, a very intense buzz can be achieved and I find that muscle recovery is also supported incredibly.

MANGOSTEEN FAQ

Q. What is pericarp?

A. The pericarp is the whole of the outer shell, technically the part of a fruit formed from the wall of the ripened ovary.

Q. Why would outer shell material be utilized and not the fruit material?

A. In many fruits, this one included the pericarp outer shell that has much more of the fruit’s essence than the fruit itself. In this case for the Queen of Fruits, the shell is easy to dry and powder by hand. This is a popular handmade product one can find at small markets made by small farmers across the Latin American region. Likely pill form veggie caps contain this powder.

Q. What is your favorite way (author) of consuming the Queen of fruit?

A. Right out of the shell, fresh and purchased from a small shack on the side of a road.

Q. When do you recommend taking the fruit?

A. For as long as you want whatever aid it gives you. Or I would say when it is in the natural season. I would also say before any exercise and I would add that it gives me a little more stamina and cardio.

Q. Where is mangosteen native to?

A. Mangosteen is native to island nations of Southeast Asia, and its very origin is peninsular Malaysia.

Q. What edible form of mangosteen plant is it?

A. Mangosteen is the fruit that is consumed.

Q. Which plant family mangosteen belong to?

A. Mangosteen is a member of the genus Garnicius.

Q. What temperature range is best for growth of mangosteen plants?

A. Mangosteen trees cannot deal with temperatures below 40º F (4.44º C), nor above 100º F (37.78º C). The seedlings cannot survive below 45º F (7.22º C).

Q. How does the mangosteen plant look?

A. Mangosteen is a tropical tree with a pyramidal crown. Mangosteen reaches 20 to 82 ft (6-25 m) in height, has dark-brown flaking bark, which contains yellowish bitter latex. The evergreen, opposite, short-stalked leaves are ovate-oblong or elliptic, leathery, and thick, dark-green.

Q. When does the mangosteen plant bear fruit?

A. In Thailand, the mangosteen tree takes 12 to 20 years to bear fruit. In Panama and Puerto Rico, mangosteen trees grown from large seed and given good nutrients have borne in 6 years.

Q. Where is the name mangosteen coming from?

A. It originates from Dutch mangosteen, and from Malay manggustan.

Q. What varieties of uses exist for mangosteen?

A. Mangosteen twigs are used as chew sticks in Ghana. The fruit itself is used for tanning leather in China. The mangosteen tree is also employed in construction and cabinetwork.

Q. What are some known medical uses for this mangosteen plant?

A. The sliced and dried rind is powdered and used to overcome dysentery. Mangosteen is applied on eczema and other skin disorders with its derived ointment.

Q. What about food usage of mangosteen?

A. Mangosteens are usually eaten fresh as dessert. The more acid fruits are best for preserving to concoct jam. The rind is rich in pectin.

Q. How long does a mangosteen tree take to mature?

A. The young plants take 2 years or more to reach a height of 12 in (30 cm).

Q. What are natural pests associated with this mangosteen plant?

A. There is a common disease called the thread blight disease that afflicts this mangosteen tree. In addition, there are a few pests that feed on mangosteen leaves and fruits ex. leaf eater, leaf miner (Phyllocnistis citrella) and fruit borer.

Q. What is the nutritional value of mangosteen?

A. Per 100g of fruit, it contains 18g of carbohydrates. However, mangosteen nutrition is modest at best even though it has some varieties of vitamins.

Q. What is the average yield of the mangosteen tree?

A. As the young tree is bearing fruit for the first time, 200–300 fruits could be produced, while at maturity, 500 fruits are average

Q. Is mangosteen fruit easy to be stored?

A. In dry, warm closed storage, mangosteens can be kept up to 20 to 25 days.

MANGOSTEEN RECAP

A taste novelty, great for special occasions, social connections, and gym sessions!

Acne medicine. Gum medicine. Heart, liver, and lung medicine. Malaria, dengue, strep throat, and staph infection treatment. Possibly treats schizophrenia. Oh, dysentery and postmenopausal osteoporosis are also treated. Mix the fruit queen with kiwi fruit for the latter.

Shell is also a serious medicine for the garden.

Mixed with cinnamon, or extracts of, a lean muscle strength and size building agent is realized. Keep it up and testosterone levels may rise.

Protects your DNA.

Just give me the good stuff.

RELATED MATERIAL

1. Jackfruit
2. Guanabana
3. Cinnamon
4. Damiana
5. Katuk

 Originally Published July 25, 2019, Updated Feb, 7 2020, July 11, 2020