The Mangosteen is a slow-growing tree with dark brown, flaking skin and fruit that is about the size of an apple or a peach. It has a hard rind, with soft fruit inside. To eat the fruit, it is necessary to open it up by twisting the outside or pressing firmly until it breaks. The rind contains tannins, which have been associated with anti-inflammatory benefits. Another common name for mangosteen juice is xango and queen of fruits.
WHERE IT CAN BE FOUND:
Indonesia, Malaysia, Southeast and South Asia
PROPERTIES AND USE:
Anti-inflammatory, anti-allergen, antibacterial, antiseptic, antitumor, antifungal, antiviral, hypotensive, tonic, and used to treat urinary tract infections, thrush, gonorrhea, diarrhea, dysentery, difficult menstruation, rheumatism, arthritis, sore muscles, high cholesterol, anemia
TRADITIONAL PREPARATION:
For all conditions, eat raw, juiced, or make into a jam. The rind can be made into an infusion to treat gonorrhea, bladder infections, and diarrhea. And ointment for rashes can be made by grinding the rind.
MANGOSTEEN JELLY
This sweet treat contains medicinal mangosteen, as well as lime, which aids in the healing of wounds, prevents damage to the eyes, maintains dental health, and helps with digestion and peptic ulcers. A natural antibiotic, it is also used for weight reduction and the treatment of cysts.
INGREDIENTS:
1/3 cup sugar
1/3 cup water
1 cup mangosteen pulp or puree 2 tablespoons lime juice
1 tablespoon pectin
INSTRUCTIONS:
• Make a simple syrup by cooking the sugar and water over medium heat until syrupy.
• Stir in the mangosteen, lime juice, and pectin.
• When the mixture reaches your desired consistency, cool and then store in a jar with lid.
USE:
This jelly is wonderful when added to your favorite smoothie
