Let's dispel a common myth right away: mangosteen has no relation to mango, despite the similar names. This unique tropical fruit originates from Southeast Asia.
Mangosteen features a thick outer rind and tender, segmented flesh inside. Its flavor is a delightful blend of apple, lychee, grape, and peach. The rind is not only edible but packed with health benefits, though it carries a bitter taste. It's one of the richest sources of xanthones—out of the 200 known xanthones in nature, 43 are found in mangosteen. Research published in the Journal of Pharmacology highlights their potent antioxidant properties, supporting heart and vascular health, bolstering the immune system, and protecting cells and tissues.
Can you buy mangosteen in the Netherlands? Fresh mangosteen is pricey and often less fresh than in Asia, but mangosteen powder is readily available. It's perfect for blending into smoothies or mixing into pancake batter for a nutritious boost.
