Bioactive xanthones from Garcinia mangostana

Abstract

Garcinia mangostana Linn. (mangosteen) is a tropical plant, widely cultivated in Asia including Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia and India. The pericarp of G. mangostana has been used traditionally to treat skin infections, wounds, dysentery, urinary disorders, cystitis and gonorrhoea. Claiming for its benefits in promoting health, mangosteen fruit juice is listed as one of the bestselling supplements worldwide. There are over 60 xanthones together with benzophenones and flavonoids that have been identified in the aerial parts of G. mangostana. Among the bioactives, xanthones are known to exhibit intriguing pharmacological activities including anti-cancer, anti-inflammation, anti-viral, anti-diabetic and anti-neurodegenerative properties. These medicinal effects are explored in greater detail to elucidate their potential uses as a therapeutic agent. This chapter presents an updated information on G. mangostana derivatives and their pharmacological effects and mechanisms of action against chronic diseases.