Gamboge
Garcinia mangostana
Garcinia mangostana, commonly known as the mangosteen, is a tropical evergreen tree native to Southeast Asia. Traditionally, its use has not been well-documented in any specific medical traditions. However, some scientific studies suggest potential health benefits. Limited clinical evidence indicates that mangosteen peel extract might improve insulin sensitivity and lower fasting glucose levels in individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), though more extensive research is required to confirm these findings. Additionally, BM (mangostin) has shown significant anti-cancer activity by inhibiting colorectal cancer cell proliferation and inducing apoptosis through ER stress-mediated mitochondrial dysfunction. In vitro studies also suggest that α-mangostin can inhibit the growth of Staphylococcus aureus by competing with menaquinone for binding sites on NDH-2, blocking electron transfer at the quinone pool. A polyphenol-rich Garcinia mangostana pericarp extract demonstrated improvements in glycemic control, lipid profiles, and sperm quality in obese-diabetic male rats. No major safety concerns or recorded drug interactions have been identified to date.
- Best evidence
- A
- Cautions
- —
Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.
What the science says
- A polyphenol-rich Garcinia mangostana pericarp extract improved metabolic and reproductive health in obese-diabetic male rats.
- Limited clinical evidence suggests that mangosteen peel extract may improve insulin sensitivity and lower fasting glucose in T2DM patients, but larger studies are needed.
- α-Mangostin competes with menaquinone for binding sites on NDH-2, blocking electron transfer at the quinone pool in S. aureus.
- BM significantly inhibited CRC cell proliferation and induced apoptosis through ER stress-mediated mitochondrial dysfunction.
- The use of 4% mangosteen gel as an adjuvant to SRP showed significant clinical improvements and biochemical changes, though heterogeneity limited comparability.
Frequently asked questions
What is Gamboge?
Gamboge (Garcinia mangostana) is a plant documented in FolkKB's traditional-medicine reference, drawn from sourced literature and cross-checked against the evidence.
What does the scientific evidence say about Gamboge?
5 sourced findings are recorded for Gamboge; the strongest carries evidence grade A. For example: A polyphenol-rich Garcinia mangostana pericarp extract improved metabolic and reproductive health in obese-diabetic male rats.
How strong is the evidence for Gamboge?
The strongest finding for Gamboge carries evidence grade A — strong evidence. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).
Is Gamboge safe? What are the side effects?
No major safety issues are recorded for Gamboge in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.
Does Gamboge interact with medications?
No drug interactions are recorded for Gamboge in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.
What are the common names of Gamboge?
Gamboge is also known as: мангостан, Mangoustanier.
Is Gamboge a proven treatment?
No. FolkKB is informational only. Traditional use and early findings are not proof of efficacy or safety — consult a qualified professional and never self-treat.
Sources
- T2 Impact of Antioxidant Mangosteen on Clinical and Biochemical Parameters of Periodontitis-A Systematic Review. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Effects of Garcinia mangostana Peel Extract on Glycemic Control in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: A Systematic Review of Human Studies. literature abstract metadata
- T2 α-Mangostin Competing the Menaquinone-Binding Sites of NDH-2 to Block the Electron Transfer at the Quinone Pool of Staphylococcus aureus. literature abstract metadata
- T2 Polyphenol-Rich Mangosteen Pericarp Extract Attenuates Metabolic and Reproductive Dysfunction in High-fat Diet and Streptozotocin-induced Obese-Diabetic Male Rats: A Preliminary Study. literature abstract metadata
- T2 β-mangostin triggers ER stress-mediated mitochondrial dysfunction to induce apoptosis in colorectal cancer. literature abstract metadata