What are Xanthones?
Xanthones are natural chemicals that have a three-ring structure called 9H-xanthen-9-one. They often have different groups attached to them, like hydroxyl, methoxy, prenyl, or sugar-related parts, which make them vary in structure. Scientists have found over 70 types of xanthones, and new ones are discovered regularly, each working in different ways.
Xanthones are secondary metabolites, meaning they are made by plants, fungi, lichens, and some sea creatures but are not directly involved in growing, developing, or reproducing. Instead, these compounds usually help the organisms protect themselves or interact with their environment. (Gul et al., 2015, Phytochemistry Reviews, Negi et al., 2013, Medicinal Chemistry Research)
Natural Sources of Xanthones
Xanthones are found in many places in nature and have been discovered in over 200 different types of plants, fungi, and lichens. They are especially common in some plant families and are often found in high amounts in roots, bark, leaves, and the outer skins of fruits (pericarps).
- Plants – especially in families such as Guttiferae/Clusiaceae and Gentianaceae.
- Fungi and lichens, which also produce xanthone derivatives.
Specific examples of plants that contain this compound include mangosteen (Garcinia mangostana), whose rind is rich in xanthones, and other species such as Garcinia cowa (also known as cowa fruit) and Garcinia morella (also known as Indian gamboge).
As for fungi, species from the genera Aspergillus, Emericella, Phoma, Phomopsis, Xylaria, and Cladosporium often produce xanthones. Examples of fungi within this genera are Aspergillus niger and Emericella variecolor. Lichen species from the genera Parmotrema, Lecanora, and Cladonia are also sources of xanthones, such as Parmotrema praesorediosum (a type of ruffle lichen).
However, these natural sources do not produce the same type of xanthones. The primary type of xanthone used and researched for human health benefits are α-mangostin, beta-mangostin, garcinones C and E, and gartanin.
Traditional Uses of Xanthone-Containing Plants
Plants that contain xanthones have been used in traditional medicines in Asia and other parts of the world. In Ayurvedic and folk medicine, these plants have been used to help the body work better and to treat conditions related to inflammation.
- The mangosteen rind has been applied for diarrhea, dysentery, skin infections, and wound healing (Pedraza-Chaverri et al., 2008, Food Chem Toxicol.).
- Decoctions from mangosteen leaves, bark, and rind have been used for fevers, urinary issues, and fungal infections (Pardo de Tavera and Thomas, 1901, Medicinal Plants of the Philippine Archipelago).
- Cowa fruit has been used in folk practices for coughs, indigestion, circulation, and as a laxative (Paudel, H.R & Thapa, R., 2023, Himalayan Fruits and Berries).
- Indian gamboge fruit is described in Ayurvedic texts as a treatment for dysentery (Zuo et al., 2012, Molecules).
These traditional uses are historical and cultural in nature and should not be interpreted as proof of clinical effectiveness.
Potential Health Benefits of Xanthones
Although xanthones are not FDA-approved to prevent or treat any diseases, scientists have studied their possible effects on the body. Current research shows that xanthones might have several different biological activities:
Antioxidant Effects
Xanthones have been shown to neutralize free radicals and reduce oxidative stress in cell cultures. These antioxidant properties could contribute to maintaining cellular integrity under stress conditions (Oriola A.O, & Kar P., 2024, Molecules).
Anti-Inflammatory Potential
Several xanthones, including α-mangostin from mangosteen, have demonstrated the ability to modulate inflammatory pathways, influencing both innate and adaptive immune responses (Gunter et al., 2020, Pharmacol).
Antimicrobial Properties
Extracts containing xanthones have demonstrated antibacterial and antifungal activity in lab studies, suggesting potential as natural compounds for microbial control, (Narasimhan et al., 2017, Molecules).
Metabolic Support
Early evidence suggests xanthones can help support healthy glucose and lipid metabolism. For example, animal research has indicated possible improvements in insulin sensitivity and lipid regulation (Shataer et al., 2025, Foods).
Cell Growth Regulation
Certain xanthones have inhibited cancer cell proliferation in laboratory experiments, possibly by triggering cell death (apoptosis) or interfering with the cell cycle. However, these findings are limited to preclinical studies. (Choodej et al., 2022, Scientific Reports).
How to Add Xanthones to Your Routine
Mangosteen rind is a well-known natural source of xanthones, and our Mangosteen Plus 8 Berries supplement combines this with a blend of nutrient-rich berries: acai berry, goji berry (wolfberry), cranberry, raspberry, bilberry, acerola, grapeseed, and hawthorn. Together, they provide a convenient way to include plant-based antioxidants and polyphenols in your daily lifestyle!