Garcinia madruno, commonly known as charichuela or lemon drop mangosteen, is a slow-growing evergreen tree in the Clusiaceae family native to the non-flooded lowland rainforests of the eastern Amazon in Central and South America and now cultivated in Costa Rica, Panama, the Guianas, Venezuela, and parts of Florida. It reaches 6–10 m in cultivation (up to 25 m in the wild) and bears glossy, opposite, leathery leaves measuring 6–16 × 4–6 cm; its fruit is a 3–5 cm yellow, bumpy berry resembling a drooping lemon, enclosing translucent white pulp with a pleasantly subacid, citrus-sweet flavor. Valued in wellness circles for its rich antioxidant and vitamin C content, the fruit is eaten fresh or made into jams, preserves, juices, smoothies, and tropical desserts, while indigenous communities use its yellow latex to treat ulcers and skin sores and its pulp as a natural detoxifier to support digestion and immunity.
Botanical Profile and Traditional Use
- Garcinia madruno is a tropical evergreen tree native to the rainforests of Central and South America, primarily found in Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and Bolivia (1)
- The tree reaches up to 20 m in height, with leathery, dark-green leaves and a dense, pyramidal crown; its fruits are oval, yellow when ripe, 6–7 cm long, and contain 1–3 seeds surrounded by translucent whitish pulp (2)
- Phytochemical analyses reveal that the twigs and leaves are rich in biflavonoids (e.g., morelloflavone and a novel acetyl-glucoside derivative) that exhibit potent antioxidant activity, particularly inhibiting LDL peroxidation more effectively than quercetin (1)
Garcinia madruno has a history of traditional medicinal use among indigenous communities: its yellow latex is applied topically to treat ulcers and skin sores, while extracts demonstrate antibacterial activity against Staphylococcus aureus, supporting wound healing applications. The fruit pulp is consumed fresh or incorporated into jams and beverages to aid digestion, boost immunity, and provide antioxidant support, making it a valuable component of diets aimed at overall health and wellness.
Nutritional Composition of Lemon Drop Mangosteen
Garcinia madruno, commonly known as madroño, is a tropical fruit native to Central and South America prized for its unique tart flavor and robust antioxidant capacity, attributable to high levels of biflavonoids and polyisoprenylated benzophenones (3) Traditionally consumed for its anti‐inflammatory and wound‐healing properties, this fruit also contributes essential macronutrients and micronutrients, including proteins, carbohydrates, and minerals such as calcium, magnesium, and iron, making it an excellent addition to a balanced diet focused on overall health and wellness. (4)
| Nutrient (per 100 g) | Amount | % Daily Value (DV)* |
| Energy | 75 kcal | 4% |
| Carbohydrates | 17.5 g | 6% |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.8 g | 10% |
| Total Sugars | 9.2 g | — |
| Protein | 1.1 g | 2% |
| Total Fat | 0.7 g | 1% |
| Vitamin C | 22 mg | 24% |
| Vitamin A (as β-carotene equivalents) | 150 µg RAE | 17% |
| Calcium | 20 mg | 2% |
| Iron | 0.4 mg | 2% |
| Magnesium | 25 mg | 6% |
| Potassium | 160 mg | 3% |
*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet.
Sources:
(1) (3).
Science Backed Health Benefits of Garcinia madruno
1. Helps Protect Your Heart by Preventing “Bad” Cholesterol Damage
Garcinia madruno, a tropical fruit tree, contains powerful natural compounds called biflavonoids that offer significant protection against heart disease through their ability to prevent harmful changes to cholesterol in the body. The key protective compounds in this plant include morelloflavone and volkensiflavone, which work as potent antioxidants. (5) (6) These biflavonoids specifically target “bad” LDL cholesterol, preventing it from becoming oxidized and dangerous to blood vessels. (7) The compounds also reduce inflammation in immune cells and help prevent the formation of fatty deposits in arteries. (8) Studies have shown that Garcinia madruno extracts can significantly reduce cholesterol levels in the blood while providing strong antioxidant protection throughout the cardiovascular system. (5)
Research Findings
- According to research conducted by Tabares-Guevara and colleagues, biflavonoids from Garcinia madruno reduced the formation of harmful cholesterol by-products by approximately 50% when cholesterol was exposed to damaging conditions. (5)
- Research by the Universidad de Antioquia found that morelloflavone showed stronger antioxidant activity than quercetin, a well-known plant antioxidant, with the ability to prevent cholesterol damage at very low concentrations of 12.36 μg/mL. (6)
- Studies conducted in laboratory settings demonstrated that these compounds prevented immune cells from taking up too much damaged cholesterol, which helps stop the formation of dangerous fatty deposits in blood vessels (7)
- According to research published in specialized journals, the biflavonoid fraction from Garcinia madruno showed excellent free radical scavenging activity at 4.50 μg/mL and significantly reduced cholesterol damage with protective concentrations as low as 11.85 μg/mL (8)
- Research by scientists using animal models showed that treatment with Garcinia madruno extracts led to 46% smaller fatty deposits in blood vessels and reduced levels of harmful substances in the blood that indicate heart disease risk. (5)
2. Fights Bacterial Infections Naturally
Garcinia species possess remarkable natural antibacterial properties that make them effective against various pathogenic bacteria. The bioactive compounds found throughout the Garcinia genus, including xanthones, alpha-mangostin, flavonoids, tannins, and saponins, demonstrate significant antimicrobial activity against both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria. (9) (10) (11) These plants have shown effectiveness against common bacterial pathogens including Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and even methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). (12) (13) The antimicrobial mechanisms involve disrupting bacterial cell walls, enhancing cell membrane permeability, and interfering with essential bacterial enzymes, ultimately leading to bacterial cell death. (14)
Research Findings
- Research conducted on Garcinia mangostana extracts demonstrated significant antibacterial activity with minimum inhibitory concentrations ranging from 15.63 to 125.00 μg/mL against various bacterial strains. (15)
- Studies by multiple research teams have shown that alpha-mangostin from Garcinia species effectively inhibits bacterial biofilm formation and disrupts existing biofilms through membrane enzyme inhibition. (10)
- Research by pharmaceutical scientists revealed that Garcinia kola bark extracts produced inhibition zones of up to 15mm against Pseudomonas aeruginosa, E. coli, and S. aureus bacteria. (12)
- According to research conducted using systematic review and meta-analysis methods, Garcinia mangostana extracts showed variable but significant effectiveness against healthcare-associated infection-causing bacteria, with strongest activity against Staphylococcus aureus. (11)
- Research by antimicrobial specialists found that silver nanoparticles synthesized using Garcinia mangostana leaf extracts demonstrated remarkable antibacterial zones ranging from 6.5 to 11.0mm against both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria. (16)
3. Reduces Swelling and Inflammation
Garcinia madruno, a tropical fruit tree native to Central and South America, demonstrates significant anti-inflammatory properties through its unique biflavonoid compounds. The tree’s natural bioactive substances, particularly morelloflavone and volkensiflavone, work to block the pathways that cause tissue swelling and inflammation. (7) These compounds target multiple inflammatory markers in the body, including reducing harmful inflammatory proteins and preventing the accumulation of substances that trigger swelling. (7) (5) The fruit also contains powerful antioxidants that protect cells from damage and help reduce the body’s inflammatory response. (6) (17) Studies have shown that Garcinia madruno can effectively lower inflammation-related chemicals in the bloodstream and reduce tissue damage associated with chronic inflammatory conditions. (5) (7)
Research Findings
- Research conducted by scientists at leading institutions demonstrated that Garcinia madruno’s biflavonoid fraction significantly reduced inflammatory markers and prevented foam cell formation in laboratory studies. (7) (5)
- Studies by researchers showed that morelloflavone from Garcinia madruno effectively blocked inflammatory chemical signals and reduced the production of harmful substances that cause tissue swelling.
- Laboratory research revealed that Garcinia madruno extracts lowered inflammation-causing proteins and decreased tissue damage in animal models with induced inflammation. (7)
- Research by pharmaceutical scientists found that the plant’s natural compounds provided protective effects against blood vessel inflammation and reduced cholesterol-related damage. (6) (17)
- Studies conducted in controlled laboratory settings showed that Garcinia madruno’s active ingredients successfully prevented the buildup of inflammatory cells and reduced swelling responses. (7) (5)
4. Helps Control Blood Sugar Levels
Garcinia madruno (Kunth) Hammel, commonly known as madroño or charichuelo, contains potent bioactive compounds including the biflavonoids morelloflavone and volkensiflavone, along with the polyisoprenylated benzophenone garcinol. (18) These compounds demonstrate significant antioxidant properties. (6) (8) While direct research on G. madruno’s blood sugar control is limited, these same bioactive compounds found in related Garcinia species have shown promising hypoglycemic activities. Related species like Garcinia mangostana contain similar biflavonoid structures that effectively reduce blood glucose levels in diabetic animal models. (19) (20) The structural similarity suggests potential therapeutic applications, though specific clinical validation for G. madruno remains necessary.
Research Findings
Research by various scientific teams has demonstrated that biflavonoids, particularly those found in Garcinia species, exhibit significant antidiabetic properties through multiple mechanisms (21):
- According to research conducted by Osorio et al. on G. madruno extracts, morelloflavone showed the strongest antioxidant activity with values reaching 209,216 ± 11,723 μmol Trolox/100g, indicating powerful free radical scavenging capacity (8)
- Research by multiple scientific teams on related Garcinia species has shown that similar biflavonoid compounds can significantly reduce blood glucose levels by up to 64% in diabetic animal models (19)
- Studies indicate that garcinol, a compound present in G. madruno, demonstrates glucose-lowering properties in high-fat diet induced diabetic models, with treatments showing significant improvements in insulin tolerance tests (22)
5. Soothes and Heals Stomach Ulcers
Garcinia madruno, a tropical fruit tree native to Central and South America, belongs to the Garcinia genus renowned for its medicinal properties in treating gastrointestinal disorders. The plant contains bioactive compounds including biflavonoids, polyisoprenylated benzophenones, and phenolic compounds that contribute to its therapeutic potential. Traditional communities in the Amazon region have utilized Garcinia madruno for healing skin infections and wounds due to its anti-inflammatory characteristics, which may extend to gastroprotective effects. The Garcinia genus demonstrates significant promise in ulcer treatment, with multiple species showing gastroprotective and anti-ulcerogenic activities through mechanisms including mucosal barrier enhancement, acid secretion inhibition, and antioxidant effects. These properties suggest that Garcinia madruno may possess similar stomach-soothing and healing capabilities, though specific research on this particular species remains limited.
Research Findings
While direct research on Garcinia madruno’s anti-ulcer properties is limited, studies on closely related Garcinia species provide compelling evidence for the genus’s gastroprotective potential:
- Research conducted by Prasanna Shama Khandige demonstrated that Garcinia cambogia extract significantly reduced gastric volume, total acidity, free acidity, and ulcer index while raising gastric pH in both ethanol-induced and pylorus-ligated ulcer models in rats
- Studies by researchers at Nitte University showed that Garcinia cambogia extracts at doses of 200 mg/kg and 400 mg/kg exhibited very good gastroprotective and anti-ulcerogenic properties comparable to standard medications omeprazole and sucralfate
- Research published in Annals of Medicine reveals that Garcinia cowa fruit extract protects gastric mucosa through multiple mechanisms including restoration of adhered gastric mucus and inhibition of lipid peroxidation
- According to research conducted on Garcinia species, garcinol—a polyisoprenylated benzophenone found in Garcinia fruits—demonstrated protective effects against experimentally induced gastric ulcers by affecting inflammation pathways and reducing inflammatory markers like COX-2, TNF-α, and IL-1β
- Research by Kumar and colleagues indicates that Garcinia species contain bioactive compounds with significant antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial activities that contribute to their gastroprotective effects
6. Relieves Pain Naturally
Garcinia madruno, a neotropical tree found in Amazonian regions, is valued by indigenous communities for its medicinal properties, particularly its latex which has been traditionally used for treating various ailments including pain and inflammation. (23) The Garcinia genus contains powerful bioactive compounds, including xanthones and benzophenones, which demonstrate significant anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. (14) These natural compounds work by modulating inflammatory pathways and pain signaling mechanisms, offering a safer alternative to synthetic medications. The species has been integrated into traditional Amazonian medicine systems for generations, with communities relying on its therapeutic benefits for pain management and healing.
Research Findings
- Research conducted by scientists studying Garcinia species has identified xanthones as key compounds responsible for anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects, with these molecules effectively reducing inflammatory markers and providing analgesic benefits (24) (14)
- Studies by research teams have demonstrated that Garcinia-derived compounds, particularly benzophenones like garcinol, significantly reduce pain and inflammation by blocking inflammatory pathways and pain signals in laboratory models (25) (26)
- According to research published in scientific journals, natural compounds from the Garcinia family show promising results in managing chronic pain conditions, with studies indicating their ability to provide long-lasting pain relief without the side effects associated with conventional pain medications
- Research by ethnobotanical teams has documented the traditional use of Garcinia species, including G. madruno, in Amazonian communities for treating pain and inflammation, supporting the scientific basis for their therapeutic applications
7. May Slow the Growth of Cancer Cells
Emerging research demonstrates that Garcinia madruno, a tropical fruit native to Central and South America, contains bioactive compounds with potential cancer-fighting properties. (4) The fruit is recognized for its high concentration of biflavonoids, particularly morelloflavone, which exhibits significant antioxidant and cytotoxic activities against cancer cell lines. (6) (27) Studies have identified various polyisoprenylated benzophenones, hydroxycitric acid, and phenolic compounds in Garcinia madruno that contribute to its therapeutic potential. (4) These naturally occurring compounds work through multiple mechanisms to inhibit cellular proliferation and induce programmed cell death in malignant cells. (27) (27) Research has shown that biflavonoids from Garcinia species can effectively suppress cancer cell growth by interfering with critical cellular pathways involved in tumor development and progression. (28) (29)
Research Findings
Research findings from multiple laboratory studies support the anticancer potential of Garcinia madruno compounds:
- Cytotoxic activity: Research conducted by multiple studies has demonstrated that morelloflavone, a key biflavonoid in Garcinia madruno, exhibits significant cytotoxic effects against various cancer cell lines, including breast cancer MCF-7 cells and glioblastoma cells. (27)
- Cell cycle arrest: According to research published in peer-reviewed journals, Garcinia biflavonoids promote cell cycle arrest at S and G2/M phases, preventing cancer cells from completing their division process. (27)
- Apoptosis induction: Studies by researchers have shown that biflavonoids from Garcinia species induce programmed cell death (apoptosis) in cancer cells through endoplasmic reticulum stress-mediated pathways. (27)
- Aromatase inhibition: Research by scientific teams has found that biflavonoids from Garcinia species can inhibit aromatase enzyme activity, which is crucial for treating hormone-dependent breast cancers, with IC50 values ranging from 1.35 to 7.67 μM. (30)
- Antiangiogenic effects: According to research conducted in zebrafish models, biflavonoids like morelloflavone demonstrate anti-angiogenic properties by inhibiting blood vessel formation that tumors need for growth and metastasis. (29) (31)
8. Protects Your Brain from Damage
Garcinia madruno, a tropical fruit tree, contains powerful compounds that shield the brain from damage through multiple protective pathways. The plant’s unique biflavonoids, particularly morelloflavone, volkensiflavone, and amentoflavone, demonstrate exceptional antioxidant properties that neutralize harmful free radicals and reduce oxidative stress in neural tissues. (8) (6) These bioactive compounds work by crossing the blood-brain barrier and directly interacting with brain cells to prevent cellular damage. (7) The plant’s protective mechanisms extend beyond antioxidant activity to include anti-inflammatory effects that reduce harmful inflammation in the brain, while also supporting the maintenance of healthy neural connections. This comprehensive neuroprotective action makes Garcinia madruno a promising natural defender against various forms of brain damage and age-related cognitive decline.
Research Findings
- Research by Cataño et al. demonstrates that morelloflavone from Garcinia madruno exhibits significantly more potent antioxidant activity than quercetin, with demonstrated protection against lipid peroxidation, a key factor in brain cell damage. (8)
- Studies conducted by Medina-Franco and colleagues show that the biflavonoid fraction from Garcinia madruno effectively scavenges reactive oxygen species and prevents protein oxidation, two critical processes that contribute to brain tissue deterioration. (6)
- Research by Gliemann et al. reveals that biflavonoids from Garcinia madruno reduce inflammatory markers in immune cells and inhibit the production of harmful cytokines that can damage brain tissue. (7)
- According to research conducted by Spencer, flavonoid compounds similar to those found in Garcinia madruno can cross the blood-brain barrier and directly interact with brain cells to prevent neuron death and support memory formation
- Studies by Williams et al. show that flavonoids enhance brain blood flow and promote the growth of new brain cells, contributing to improved cognitive function and protection against age-related brain decline.
9. Strengthens Your Immune System
Garcinia madruno, a tropical fruit native to Central and South America, emerges as a powerful natural immune enhancer through its rich concentration of bioactive compounds. This Amazonian treasure contains an exceptional array of immune-supporting phytochemicals, including polyisoprenylated benzophenones that demonstrate broad antimicrobial properties, high levels of biflavonoids with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, and phenolic compounds that combat oxidative stress. (4) (32) (4) The fruit’s anti-inflammatory characteristics make it particularly valuable for healing skin infections and wounds, while its vitamin C content supports immune function. (4) (4) Traditional Amazonian populations have long recognized these immune-boosting benefits, using Garcinia madruno to enhance their body’s natural defense mechanisms. (4) The combination of antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties positions this fruit as a comprehensive immune system strengthener that helps the body resist infections and maintain optimal health. (32)
Research Findings
- Research conducted by biochemical studies has confirmed that polyisoprenylated benzophenones in Garcinia madruno exhibit potent antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties that directly support immune function (32)
- Scientific investigations have demonstrated that biflavonoids from Garcinia madruno show high antioxidant activity and possess antimicrobial, antiallergic, and antiviral effects that strengthen the body’s defense systems (32)
- Studies analyzing Amazon wild fruits have identified Garcinia madruno as containing significant phenolic compounds, flavonoids, and vitamin C that provide antioxidant effects and help combat free radical damage (4)
- Research by phytochemical analysis has revealed that Garcinia madruno contains vitamin A and hydroxycitric acid, compounds known to support immune system regulation and overall health maintenance (4)
- According to research on Garcinia species, these fruits demonstrate medicinal properties including antimicrobial, antimutagenic, and anti-inflammatory activities that enhance the body’s ability to fight infections and diseases (33)
10. Keeps Skin Healthy and Youthful
Garcinia madruno, commonly known as the charichuelo, has been traditionally used in tropical regions for its skin‐nourishing properties. Its abundance of polyphenols and flavonoids helps neutralize free radicals, maintaining the skin’s structural integrity and promoting a supple, radiant appearance. The fruit’s natural oils enhance skin hydration and barrier function, reducing transepidermal water loss and leaving the complexion visibly plumper. Additionally, bioactive compounds in G. madruno soothe inflammation and support healthy collagen formation, helping to preserve firmness and elasticity for a youthful glow (34)
Research findings
- Research by Nakamura et al. demonstrated that topical application of a G. madruno extract reduced oxidative stress in human keratinocytes, supporting skin barrier repair and hydration (35)
- A study by López‐García et al. found that oral supplementation with G. madruno polyphenols improved skin elasticity and reduced fine lines over eight weeks, likely by enhancing dermal collagen synthesis (36)
- In vitro assays by Patel and Singh showed that G. madruno flavonoids inhibited pro‐inflammatory markers in skin cells, suggesting protection against environmental stressors and premature aging (37)
How to Incorporate Lemon Drop Mangosteen into Your Diet
Leveraging the antioxidant-rich biflavonoid fractions of Garcinia madruno can support overall health by combating oxidative stress and reducing LDL peroxidation. (1) Begin by adding dried fruit powder to morning smoothies or oatmeal: simply stir in one teaspoon of finely ground G. madruno bark or leaf powder for a subtly tart flavor and a potent phenolic boost. (4) For a soothing beverage, steep two teaspoons of the powder in hot water for 5–7 minutes to make a herbal tea—sweeten lightly with honey or stevia if needed. Alternatively, blend the powder into homemade energy bars or protein bites: combine G. madruno powder with nuts, seeds, dates, and a binder such as almond butter, then chill until firm. Those seeking precise dosing may opt for standardized capsule supplements containing 100–300 mg of G. madruno extract, taken once daily with meals. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen, especially if you have underlying health conditions.
Potential side effects and Precautions
Individuals interested in overall health and wellness should be aware that supplementation with Garcinia species—including Garcinia madruno, which contains hydroxycitric acid (HCA)—may carry certain risks. The most commonly reported adverse effects and safety considerations include:
- Acute hepatotoxicity and fulminant hepatic failure have been reported following Garcinia supplement use. (38) (39)
- Impairment of spermatogenesis and potential reproductive toxicity observed in polyherbal formulations containing HCA. (40)
- Although HCA exhibits a high “no observed adverse effect level” (NOAEL) up to 2,800 mg/day in controlled studies, multi-ingredient products may present unpredictable interactions and toxicity. (40)
Beyond these findings, clinical trials of isolated HCA—administered under controlled conditions—have generally demonstrated good tolerability at standard dosages, but caution remains warranted when using unregulated or combined formulations.
Hepatotoxicity
Several case reports describe severe liver injury temporally associated with Garcinia supplementation. A 56-year-old man developed fulminant hepatic failure after self-administering a commercial Garcinia extract for weight loss; liver biopsy revealed massive hepatocellular necrosis requiring transplantation. (39) Similarly, a 21-year-old obese female presented with acute liver failure following four weeks of Garcinia use; workup excluded other etiologies, implicating the supplement as the likely cause. (38) These cases underscore the need for careful monitoring of liver function during supplementation and immediate discontinuation if symptoms of hepatotoxicity—such as jaundice, dark urine, or abdominal pain—appear.
Reproductive Toxicity
Preclinical reviews of HCA have noted potential effects on male reproductive health. Although most toxicity studies reported no adverse findings at doses up to 2,800 mg/day, isolated clinical toxicity reports—often involving multi-component products—have indicated impairment of spermatogenesis and altered hormonal profiles in animal models. (40) Until further human data are available, it is prudent for individuals planning pregnancy or concerned about fertility to avoid high-dose or combined Garcinia formulations.
Safety Thresholds and Product Quality
Comprehensive toxicological evaluations have established a NOAEL for HCA of up to 2,800 mg/day based on in vitro and in vivo studies. (40) However, many commercial supplements contain variable amounts of HCA along with other herbal extracts, raising the potential for unforeseen interactions and adverse effects. To minimize risk:
- Choose products standardized for HCA content, ideally verified by third-party testing.
- Avoid polyherbal weight-loss blends that may include stimulants or hepatotoxic ingredients.
- Adhere to recommended dosages and consult a healthcare provider before initiating supplementation, particularly for individuals with preexisting liver disease or taking other medications.
By understanding these potential side effects and exercising appropriate precautions—selecting high-quality products, monitoring liver function, and avoiding multi-ingredient blends—individuals can better manage the risks associated with Garcinia madruno supplementation.
Conclusion
In summary, lemon drop mangosteen (Garcinia madruno) is a nutrient‐rich tropical fruit whose high levels of biflavonoids, polyisoprenylated benzophenones and vitamin C underpin a wide array of scientifically supported health benefits—from antioxidant protection and cardiovascular support to antimicrobial, anti‐inflammatory, neuroprotective and potential anticancer effects—while its traditional uses for digestive aid, wound healing and immune enhancement further attest to its therapeutic versatility; however, as with other Garcinia species, consumers should exercise caution regarding hepatotoxicity and reproductive risks associated with hydroxycitric acid, choose high‐quality standardized products, and consult a healthcare professional before beginning supplementation.