Mangosteens are tropical fruits with a hard purple-brown shell and soft white inner flesh. Though not particularly known for containing high levels of vitamins or minerals as compared to other fruits, mangosteens are nonetheless prized – for their other health benefits.

Mangosteens contain over 40 different xanthones – polyphenols with antibiotic, antiviral, anti-tumoral, anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic properties.

As such, this tropical fruit has often been used in Southeast Asia to cure many ailments, including infections, dysentery, skin problems and pain.

Do be aware when you eat mangosteens. The purple juice from the shell of the fruit could stain your clothes permanently. So it is best to avoid wearing your favorite best if you are eating this fruit.

References
[1] Collins, Elise Marie. An A-Z Guide to Healing Foods: A Shopper’s Companion. San Francisco, California: Conari Press, 2009. Print.

Cindy L. TJOL is trained in Psychology, Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine. She has several years of experience writing on natural health on the internet. Follow her on her blog and read her other articles at Insights On Health.com.