Discover mangosteen: The tropical fruit boosting your health
In the world of superfoods and exotic fruits, many trends quickly come and go. However, some natural gifts deserve a permanent place in our diet—not only for their taste but especially for their nutritional value. Mangosteen is one of these exceptional fruits.
Mangosteen (Latin: Garcinia mangostana) originates from Southeast Asia, where it's found in countries like Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, and the Philippines. This small, round fruit boasts a dark purple, tough rind and snow-white, juicy flesh divided into segments that resemble garlic cloves. Its taste? It's hard to describe—gently sweet with hints of citrus, peach, and pineapple. Try it once, and you'll likely fall in love forever.
A treasure of health in a tropical rind
Mangosteen is not just a tasty snack. Its most valuable components are xanthones—powerful antioxidants primarily found in its rind. These antioxidants are responsible for many of the fruit's health-promoting properties:
- Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects – Supports the body in fighting free radicals and inflammation.
- Immune system enhancement – Thanks to the presence of vitamin C and bioactive compounds.
- Support for the digestive system – Helps maintain a healthy gut flora.
- Antibacterial and antiviral properties – Used in traditional medicine to treat infections.
- Anti-cancer potential – Preliminary studies show promising effects of xanthones on certain cancer cells. Interestingly, not only the pulp but also extracts from the mangosteen's rind are used in dietary supplements.
How to eat mangosteen?
Even though the rind is thick and tough, you only need to gently cut it and pull it apart with your fingers—inside awaits a fragrant, white surprise. The pulp is eaten raw and preferably with a spoon, while being cautious of the seeds in some segments. Mangosteen is versatile and can be used in fruit salads, cocktails and smoothies, desserts, exotic jams, and functional drinks.
Where to buy mangosteen?
Fresh mangosteen is a rarity in some places, but it can usually be found in season at well-stocked stores with exotic fruits or gourmet shops. Mangosteen juices, extracts, and dietary supplements are also available, although it's important to read labels and choose minimally processed products.
Exotic fruit salad with mangosteen and lime
This light and colorful salad with mangosteen is a true explosion of freshness and tropical flavor. Perfect for summer, it lifts your mood, refreshes, and looks like a postcard from Bali. Just a few simple ingredients transport you to an exotic atmosphere—without leaving your kitchen.
Ingredients (for 2 servings):
- 4-5 mangosteen fruits
- 1 ripe mango
- 1 kiwi
- 1/2 pomegranate
- 1/2 lime (juice and a bit of zest)
- A few fresh mint leaves
- Optional: 1 teaspoon of honey or maple syrup
Preparation:
- Peel the mangosteens: gently cut the rind and pull it apart with your fingers. Remove the white pulp and divide it into segments, being careful of the seeds.
- Dice the mango and kiwi.
- Extract the seeds from the pomegranate.
- Mix the fruits in a bowl, add the lime juice, a bit of zest, and mint leaves.
- If you prefer sweeter salads, add a teaspoon of honey or maple syrup and mix gently.
Serving:
Serve chilled, perhaps in glass dishes or a hollowed-out half of a mango as a "bowl." Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a light tropical-style lunch!
