Mangosteen juice - the fruit of the gods?

Mangosteen juice is being advertised by nutritionists as a “superfood” and “Queen of the fruit”. This is because it is believed that this juice provides great amounts of essential nutrients and possesses the properties which prevent and cure several serious diseases.

About mangosteen

Mangosteen, also called Purple mangosteen or Garcinia mangostana, is a fruit growing on a tropical evergreen tree. This tree requires specific climate, found only in ultra-tropic regions. Cold temperatures can kill the plant, which is why it is not easy to cultivate.

This fruit has a thick rind which turns deep red or purple when ripe, and the inside is sectioned like an orange, with large seeds. The flavor is sweet and tangy, and the texture is similar to peaches.

Mangosteen is packed with vitamins, especially vitamins C, B1, B2 and B6, and it is a good source of potassium, calcium and iron. The fruit itself does not travel well, so it is mostly available in the form of juice, which can be found in health food stores and produce departments in Asian markets.

Benefits of mangosteen juice

Manufacturers advertise mangosteen juice as a product that cures everything, from minor ailments to cancer. These properties of the juice have not been completely proven by researchers, but the fact is that the juice does offer significant benefits for the human health.

One of the most important qualities of mangosteen juice is its antioxidant content. By now almost everybody knows how important antioxidants are. They counteract the effects of free radicals which cause oxidative damage on the cellular and tissue levels and thus are considered to be the cause for many serious diseases.

Xanthones are a specific group of antioxidants, believed to be among the most powerful antioxidant types. Mangosteen provides as much as 7 different xanthones, from the total of 200. the problem with xanthones is that their highest concentration is found in the pericarp of mangosteen, which is not the tastiest part of the fruit. Luckily, when boiled, pericarp tastes better and the antioxidant content remains almost intact. Therefore, it is recommended to pick the juice made of all parts of the fruit, including pericarp.

Mangosteen fruit and its juice are believed to be highly beneficial for a number of body functions, from digestive health to eye sight, and they have antibacterial, anti-fungal, anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic properties. They also provide protection from viruses.

Mangosteen juice boosts the immune system, helps the body in fighting off infections, restores the energy levels, improves the appearance of hair and skin and its antioxidants work on a deeper level to assure longevity and better overall health.