Tropical Fruit Mangosteen Could Treat Schizophrenia

Mangosteen has long been used in traditional medicine in South-East Asia, and now Australian researchers hope to prove that its antioxidants could ease psychosis, schizophrenia and other symptoms.

Mangosteens are a tropical evergreen fruit from Indonesia, resembling a passionfruit on the outside, with a dark thick skin.

‘Juice containing mangosteen peel extracts contain xanthonoids, such as mangostin which may reduce blood levels of C-reactive protein, a biomarker of inflammation.’

Present day medication for schizophrenia can have some unpleasant side effects, and researchers are hoping that if their trials prove positive, the fruit could be used as a milder treatment for the mental illness.

The Queensland Brain Institute's John McGrath, who is leading the research, said a range of "wonderful antioxidants" could be found within the skin of the mangosteen. "These compounds may reduce inflammation and treat free radicals, which can be a side effect of diseases and inflammation," Professor McGrath said.

Researchers will study 150 people over six months to see what effect the use of antioxidants from mangosteen rind might have on hallucinations, delusions, moods and energy levels.

Source: Medindia