Health Benefits of Kokum or Mangosteen | 10 Amazing & Surprising Facts

Kokum (Garcinia indica) and Mangosteen (Garcinia mangostana) are two tropical fruits that are known for their potential health benefits.

Kokum fruit (Mangosteen) is one the healthiest fruits that is available in most parts of India. It is known for its bright-red colour and sour taste.

The fresh fruit is low in calories and rich in dietary fibre. It is a very good source of B- complex vitamins like vitamin B1, B3 and folate. Kokum is rich in vitamin C, well known for its antioxidant properties. It is also rich in minerals like potassium, manganese and magnesium. Potassium helps control the heart rate and blood pressure and thus protects against heart disease and stroke.

The fruit can be used in so many different ways:

in cooking
as juice
in medicine and
in cosmetics, to name just a few of the known areas of benefit.

Although a native of, yet commercially under-exploited in India, Kokum or Mangosteen is far more appreciated in – the USA, or in Thailand and other countries in Southeast Asia where branded kokum products on such XanGo, Thai-Go, Mangosteen-Plus, or Mango-Xan have become household names, at least among circles interested in organic food and integrative health.

Kokum or Mangosteen – Health Benefits

1. Anti Cancer Agent

Kokum contains Garcinol, a constituent which has anti-carcinogenic properties. Garcinol inhibits growth of intestinal cancer cells without affecting the normal cells. It can prevent Skin, Liver, Colon, Breast, and Tongue cancer. It also possesses anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties that decrease the tumor causing reactive oxygen species and prevent oxidative damage to body cells. They also help in cell renewal and repair.

2. Digestive Aid

Kokum is widely used to combat a myriad range of digestive problems like constipation, acidity and flatulence. It contains hydroxycitric acid (HCA) that acts as an appetite suppressant. Its anti-helmintic properties help in removal of worms like ascaris from the stomach.

Kokum is often used as a digestive aid in traditional medicine. It may help improve digestion, reduce constipation, and soothe digestive issues like acidity and bloating. Mangosteen has also been shown to have beneficial effects on digestive health.

3. Healing Wounds

Kokum has healing and soothing properties. So, it is used as direct application or as an infusion in skin ailments such as chaffing, scalds, burns and rashes caused by allergies. An application of Kokum oil and paste on open wounds can fasten the healing process.

4. Helps Reduce Weight

Kokum contains HCA that acts as a hypocholesterolaemic agent. It suppresses the activity of the enzymes responsible for conversion of calories into fat. It induces weight loss by hindering with the process of lipogenesis (fatty acid synthesis).

5. Body Coolant

Kokum juice is refreshing in nature. Consuming kokum juice prevents heat strokes and sun exposure-related symptoms in the body. It can also heal stomach ulcers. Hence, it is best to consume this drink during the summer season.

6. Cardio Tonic

The anti-inflammatory and cardiotonic properties of kokum help to prevent the onset of heart complaints. The hydroxycitric acid lowers the cholesterol level and reduces the possibilities of heart diseases.

Both kokum and mangosteen contain compounds that have anti-inflammatory properties. These properties may help reduce inflammation in the body and lower the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and cancer.

7. Antioxidant Rich

Kokum is a rich source of vitamin C and other polyphenols that have good antioxidant properties. It helps to eliminate free radicals from the body that have negative effects on the system. Thus, it is also very good for detoxifying the body of any toxic components.

Both fruits are rich in antioxidants, which help protect the body from damage caused by harmful molecules called free radicals. Antioxidants may also help reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

8. Builds Immunity

Kokum enahnces your immune function by acting as a powerful anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory agent. Garcinol, an active constituent present in kokum is found to possess anti-carcinogenic properties that helps in suppressing the production of reactive oxygen species responsible for the cancer.

Both kokum and mangosteen are rich in vitamins and minerals that support immune system function. They may help boost the body’s defenses against infections and diseases.

9. Perfect treatment for Hyper Acidity

During Hyper-Acidity or acidity, one may feel relaxed by taking a cold blend of Gracinia indica, a pinch of salt and little sugar.

10. Boosts Brain

Kokum is found to exert positive effects on the brain by helping in the neuronal growth process. It also prevents damage to the brain by nullifying the action of the free radicals.

Overall, kokum and mangosteen are nutritious fruits that offer a range of potential health benefits. However, more research is needed to fully understand their effects on human health.

Health Benefits of Kokum & Mangosteen | 10 Amazing & Surprising Facts

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