Xanthones are chemical compounds that occur naturally in various organic materials. For much time, xanthones were derived from salicyliate and used in insecticides. Now, the most common use for xanthones is through natural preparations derived from the mangosteen fruit which are said to reduce cholesterol levels and hardening of the arteries, or atherosclerosis, as well as naturally combat cancer.

Xanthones derived from the mangosteen are extracted from the rind or pericarp. They are packaged in a wide variety of natural food supplements available on the Internet and in natural foods and health food stores. Some manufacturers also make mangosteen juice, which is combined with other juices to provide a source of xanthones. However, unless the pericarp is used in the juice, these juices will not significantly increase one’s intake of xanthones.

Xanthones from mangosteen vary in price, ranging from 4-15 US dollars (USD) a bottle. Mangosteen juice is significantly more expensive. A 24-ounce bottle can cost as much as 30-40 US dollars (USD). Some products, both in capsule and juice form, claim to be certified organic, while others do not.

Manufacturers of xanthones claim that a daily dose of these compounds will lower cholesterol. Other claims suggest that xanthones promote overall heart health, reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke, and help prevent atherosclerosis. Xanthones are also praised for their antioxidant properties.

The US Food and Drug Administration has not evaluated these claims, because xanthones are packaged as nutritional supplements, not medications. Most sites on the Internet that market mangosteen juice or supplements claim vast amounts of scientific research supporting all of the above claims. However, this evidence is primarily based on one study by Dr. James Duke, who felt mangosteen might have some antibacterial properties.

Beyond this sidebar listing in Dr. Duke’s article, there are no approved clinical studies on mangosteen, and certainly none that support claims of reducing cholesterol or promoting heart health. Dr. Chet Moss, in an article on CancerDecisions.com, calls mangosteen an “overpriced fruit drink.” Dr. Moss is particularly concerned with those suffering from cancer who may be bilked into spending an excessive amount of money on something that will have no benefit.

Given the lack of clinical evidence on the value of xanthones derived from mangosteen, it makes excellent sense to consult one’s doctor, cardiologist or oncologist before trying them. There is little evidence that the xanthones present in mangosteen are harmful. However, pregnant and nursing women should probably not use them as little is known about effects on the fetus or newborn. Using xanthones in place of other cardiac medicines is potentially disastrous, and xanthones may interact with other medications one is taking.