Mangosteen (Garcinia mangostana): A Review of Its Effects on General Health, Men’s Health, Prostate Function, Urinary Benefits, and Therapeutic Uses

Abstract

Mangosteen (Garcinia mangostana), often referred to as the “queen of fruits,” has been traditionally used in Southeast Asian medicine for centuries. With growing global interest in natural remedies, mangosteen has drawn scientific attention due to its rich phytochemical composition—particularly xanthones—and their potential antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer properties. This article presents a comprehensive scholarly examination of mangosteen’s health benefits with a focus on men’s health, prostate wellness, urinary tract function, and ingestion methods.

1. Introduction to Mangosteen

Mangosteen is a tropical evergreen fruit-bearing tree belonging to the Clusiaceae family. The edible part of the fruit is a white, soft, juicy aril surrounded by a thick purple rind (pericarp), which contains a high concentration of xanthones, tannins, and flavonoids. Traditional medicinal systems in countries like Thailand, Indonesia, and the Philippines have used mangosteen for centuries to treat skin infections, wounds, dysentery, and inflammation.

2. Phytochemical Profile

The therapeutic effects of mangosteen stem largely from its bioactive compounds, including:

Xanthones (α-mangostin, γ-mangostin): Unique polyphenolic compounds with proven antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.
Flavonoids and anthocyanins: Known to reduce oxidative stress.
Tannins and phenolic acids: Exhibit antimicrobial and anti-cancer potential.

These compounds are mainly concentrated in the pericarp, which is often extracted for supplements.

3. General Health Benefits

3.1 Antioxidant Activity

Xanthones in mangosteen scavenge free radicals and reduce oxidative damage. Clinical and in vitro studies indicate a significant reduction in oxidative stress markers after mangosteen extract supplementation, which may support cardiovascular, neuroprotective, and anti-aging benefits.

3.2 Anti-inflammatory Properties

Mangosteen suppresses pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-6, TNF-α, CRP), potentially helping in the management of chronic inflammatory conditions such as arthritis and metabolic syndrome.

3.3 Antimicrobial and Immunomodulatory Actions

Extracts have shown inhibitory effects against Staphylococcus aureus, E. coli, and Candida albicans. Additionally, immune modulation is observed through enhanced macrophage function and lymphocyte activity.

4. Mangosteen and Men’s Health

4.1 Testosterone and Hormonal Balance

While direct clinical trials on testosterone modulation are limited, the anti-inflammatory nature of mangosteen may indirectly support endocrine function and metabolic health, which can influence testosterone synthesis.

4.2 Energy, Muscle Recovery, and Libido

The antioxidant activity may contribute to better mitochondrial function, potentially enhancing energy levels and improving muscle recovery post-exercise. There is anecdotal evidence and limited research suggesting improvement in libido, though more robust data is needed.

5. Prostate Health

Mangosteen’s potential role in prostate health is a promising field of research, particularly due to its anti-inflammatory and anti-proliferative properties.

5.1 Anti-inflammatory Protection

Chronic inflammation is a risk factor for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and prostate cancer. Xanthones have demonstrated the ability to downregulate inflammatory enzymes such as COX-2 and 5-LOX in prostate tissue models.

5.2 Anticancer Potential

Studies have indicated that α-mangostin inhibits the growth of prostate cancer cell lines (e.g., LNCaP and PC-3) by inducing apoptosis and cell cycle arrest. It modulates pathways like PI3K/AKT, which are crucial in tumor progression.

5.3 BPH Symptom Alleviation

Though human clinical trials are sparse, traditional use and preclinical evidence suggest mangosteen may help reduce urinary retention and improve urinary flow—key symptoms of BPH—by reducing prostatic inflammation.

6. Urinary Benefits

Antimicrobial Effect: Prevents bacterial growth that contributes to urinary tract infections (UTIs).
Diuretic-like Action: Traditional use suggests it may promote gentle diuresis, aiding urinary flow.
Bladder Health: Anti-inflammatory effects may soothe bladder irritation in conditions like interstitial cystitis.

7. Uses and Applications

7.1 Forms of Ingestion

Whole Fruit: Consumed fresh in tropical regions, though the pericarp is typically discarded.
Juice: Commercially available, but often diluted or mixed with other fruit juices.
Pericarp Powder: Richest source of xanthones; used in capsules or added to smoothies.
Extracts and Supplements: Standardized for xanthone content (typically α-mangostin).

7.2 Dosage

Supplemental Extracts: 500–1000 mg/day of xanthone-rich extract is commonly recommended.
Juice: 30–60 ml daily, depending on xanthone content.
It is crucial to ensure product standardization and avoid sugar-laden commercial juices.

8. Safety and Contraindications

Mangosteen is generally regarded as safe, but caution is advised in the following scenarios:

Blood-thinning medications: Xanthones may have mild anticoagulant properties.
Autoimmune conditions: Immunomodulation might aggravate symptoms.
Pregnancy and lactation: Not enough reliable evidence supports use.

9. Conclusion

Mangosteen represents a promising functional food with a wide range of health-promoting effects, especially pertinent to men’s health. Its xanthone-rich pericarp delivers antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-proliferative benefits that may support prostate function and urinary health. While preliminary evidence and traditional use are encouraging, more rigorous human clinical trials are needed to fully substantiate these effects, especially regarding prostate disease modulation and hormonal health.

Mangosteen (Garcinia mangostana): A Review of Its Effects on General Health, Men’s Health, Prostate Function, Urinary Benefits, and Therapeutic Uses