Therapeutic insights into Garcinia mangostana: Bioactivities, challenges, and future directions in drug discovery

Garcinia mangostana is a tropical tree native to India, Sri Lanka, and Southeast Asia. In Traditional Medicinal Systems (TMS), decoctions and infusions prepared from mangosteen fruits have effectively treated skin lesions and various inflammatory conditions. Researchers have also reported its extensive biological activities, viz. antimicrobial, antioxidant, anticancer, antidiabetic, neuroprotective, and cardioprotective effects. This literature review comprehensively describes the biological potential of G. mangostana over the last twenty-five years. It includes a discussion of the bioactive compounds of G. mangostana and their extraction, purification, and characterization processes. Antimicrobial, anticancer, antitumorigenic, antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, and antiparasitic activities are discussed in detail. Furthermore, the paper addresses the main obstacles associated with using mangosteen extracts and suggests ways to overcome these challenges. The medicinal properties of G. mangostana are primarily attributed to a-mangostin and other bioactive xanthones. However, other bioactive compounds with potential therapeutic activities remain not fully characterized. Therefore, developing effective extraction methods for these bioactive compounds, along with their characterization, possible bioactivities (pharmacodynamics), and any synergistic effects, is essential. Additionally, pharmacokinetic studies, including absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, and toxicity (ADMET), are necessary. It is also worth considering plant parts other than the pericarp.