Alpha-Mangostin is one of the xanthones, besides beta-mangostin, garcinone E and B which are derived from the rind of mangosteen. Mangosteen is a tropical fruit grown in Southeast Asian countries. Since ages, the pericarp has been valued for its medicinal properties and has been used to treat conditions like bladder infections and diarrhoea. Studies show that Alpha-Mangostin and the other xanthones in mangosteen have anti-inflammatory, antifungal, antimicrobial, antiseptic as well as anti-cancerous effects. Besides xanthones, the therapeutic property of the fruit is also attributed to the presence of tannins in the rind. However, studies also suggest that high doses of Alpha-Mangostin may prove to be toxic.

Garcinia Mangostana (Mangosteen) is a regular feature of weight loss products. It has been used as a diuretic, antimicrobial, and purgative. Ethanol extract of Garcinia mangostana L. (Guttiferae) can inhibit HIV-1 protease. It is utilized in traditional medicine to heal wounds, skin infections, and diarrhea. Research has showed that xanthones from the fruit hulls exhibit antifungal, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties. Alpha-mangostin – a xanthone – prevents growth of human leukemia HL60 cells, reduces synthesis of prostaglandins, and prevents oxidative damage of LDL (7) in vitro. It is used for anti-diarrheal, anti-inflammation, and anti-parasitic activities. It is also helpful for fever control, and alleviating gastrointestinal problems, headaches, pain discomfort, and skin rashes and burns. It reduces the risk for bacterial, fungal, and viral agents.

Tannins are a large class of amorphous substances present in plants. They have an astringent taste and give a blue or green color with iron salts because of the fact that tannins are metal ion chelators. The main chemical groups in their structure are hydroxyl and carboxyl groups. Tannins are used in tanning leather. It is their property of precipitating gelatin which is responsible for the use of tannins in the treatment of hides to make leather. They are also used as mordant in the textile industry. They have some reported health benefits as well; they may be employed in compounds which support the proper absorption of water from feaces in the large intestine and the clotting of blood.