Mangosteen

Mangosteen: The Queen of Tropical Fruits

The Mangosteen (Garcinia mangostana), known in Thai as Mangkut (มังคุด), is universally celebrated as the "Queen of Fruits." This title is bestowed not only because it ripens simultaneously with the Durian (the King) but also for its exquisitely delicate flavor, cooling properties, and its regal appearance, complete with a natural crown of calyx leaves.

A Study in Contrasts

The mangosteen is an unassuming fruit that holds a magnificent surprise within its tough exterior.

• The Exterior: It has a thick, firm rind (pericarp) that ranges from deep reddish-purple to almost black when fully ripe. The number of lobes on the fleshy white interior corresponds exactly to the number of petals on the floral pattern found at the bottom of the fruit.
• The Interior: Once the rind is scored and opened, it reveals 4 to 8 segments of pure white, soft, and juicy flesh. This is the fruit's treasure—its flavor is often described as a perfect blend of sweetness with a hint of tart citrus, peach, and vanilla, leaving a clean, refreshing sensation on the palate.

The Cooling Counterpart to Durian

In Thai folk tradition, the Mangosteen is revered for its cooling properties, which are believed to help balance the intense heat (rut) generated in the body by consuming rich, caloric fruits like the Durian. Therefore, the "King and Queen" are often eaten together—the Mangosteen providing a refreshing, palate-cleansing contrast to the heavy, pungent Durian.

A Symbol of Purity and Health

The fruit is a native of Southeast Asia, thriving in the tropical climate of Thailand. Its short, peak season (usually from May to August) makes it a highly sought-after delicacy. The rind is also highly valued in traditional medicine for its abundance of powerful antioxidants (Xanthones) and is often used to make traditional remedies.Elegant in appearance, perfect in flavor, and rich in natural goodness, the Mangosteen truly deserves its royal title, embodying the delicate perfection of Thai tropical nature.