The Mysterious Mangosteen

Mangosteen is very mysterious. Unlike oranges and apples, mangosteen in the produce department is rarely seen.

My curiosity about the Clusiaceae-related member peaked once learning mangosteen is considered the 'Queen Of Fruits'. The fruit gained its title because of its purple-bluish hue and its slightly sweet and sour flavor.

The tropical exotic [purple] fruit originated from southeast Asia.

Often referred to as purple mangosteen due to its deep purple color can be grown and found in India, Indonesia, Phillippines, and Malaysia. The fruit tree grows upward of ten inches with deep green, thick, and glossy-textured leaves. The fruit is the size of a small orange with round or flattened ends. The thick, hard deep red rind surrounds a snow-white-colored flesh the size of a mandarin orange.

In Indonesia, mangosteen roots were used in traditional medicine to aid the menstrual cycles in women. The outside rind was used as ointment whereas the leaves and bark of the mangosteen were boiled [in water and] used as a fever reducer, diarrhea, and certain sexually transmitted infections, or STIs.

Here are a few health benefits mangosteen offers for our body's longevity.

Mangosteen is your health's knight in shiny armor.

We can all agree you can't live your best life without eating beneficial foods and remaining physically active.

Known as Garcinia mangosteen, is packed with essential antioxidants for overall health.

Studies about the antioxidant activity of xanthones found in mangosteen showed anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, anti-aging, and anti-diabetic effects.

A 30-day study with 59 participants using mangosteen supplements experienced less inflammation. Moreover, the participants had an increase in healthy immunity cells.

Xanthones found in mangosteen is plant compound packed with strong antioxidant properties. The plant compound contains antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects that can combat the development and spread of cancerous cells as well as reduce inflammation.

The gartanin found in xanthone compounds contains powerful antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-fungal, and anti-cancer properties.

Studies proved diets rich in vegetables and fruits similar to mangosteen can reduce risks of cancer.

Catechin, an antioxidant found in mangosteen, combats cell damage and aids cell redevelopment. Catechin helps reduce skin damage and signs of aging, including but not limited to wrinkles, crow's feet, and blemishes to name a few.

Mangosteens were used in traditional medicine as a remedy for acne thanks to their anti-microbial properties.

Fiber is key.

Fiber is an undervalued essential the body needs to be able to function.

Mangosteen has 14% of the fiber our bodies need on a daily basis.

Fiber has an influence on the body's overall health.

Combined with compounds and antioxidants, fiber promotes healthy gut bacteria. Xanthone compounds [found in mangosteen] and fiber can reduce blood sugar.

'The Food of the Gods' is packed with essential vitamins and minerals, potassium, copper, magnesium, and manganese, which helps reduce bad cholesterol and blood pressure.

An eight-week study of participants consuming mangosteen juice twice daily can aid in weight loss.

Try mangosteen today!

On my last visit to the grocery store, I remember seeing canned mangosteen in the [canned] fruit aisle.

Mangosteen is edible fresh, canned, and dried.

I've discovered the popularity of the low-calorie purple fruit in international grocery stores.

Known as 'The National Food of Thailand', I like the ease of exploring and buying fruits and vegetables that are dynamic to food cultures.

In Indonesia, mangosteen trees are common backyard trees. The fruit tree is grown in various tropical areas. Mangosteen seedlings take between eight to 15 years to bear fruit.

What's your favorite mangosteen dish?

Do you prefer to eat mangosteen raw, canned, or dried?

Where's your go-to store for the exotic purple fruit?

Let's discuss down below!