Alpha-mangostin (xanthone) assay

Alpha-mangostin is a bioactive xanthone naturally present in the pericarp of the mangosteen (Garcinia mangostana), a tropical fruit widely used in nutraceuticals and Asian herbal medicine. Recognized for its potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and anticancer effects, alpha-mangostin is generating increasing interest in the development of dietary supplements, standardized botanical extracts, cosmetic products, and functional nutrition applications.

Alpha-mangostin analysis is essential to guarantee the quality, efficacy, and conformity of mangosteen extracts used as active ingredients. It allows for the standardization of formulations, the evaluation of compound stability during storage or processing, and ensures the traceability of plant-based raw materials.

Why measure alpha-mangostine?

Alpha-mangostin is the main marker of the xanthonoid fraction of mangosteen. It is particularly studied for its multiple biological effects demonstrated in vitro and in vivo:

• Powerful antioxidant properties (free radical scavenging, cell protection)
• Anti-inflammatory effects via inhibition of COX-2 and TNF-α
• Antibacterial and antifungal activity, particularly against oral and intestinal pathogens
• Anticancer potential (cell apoptosis, inhibition of tumor proliferation)

In this context, the measurement of alpha-mangostine becomes a strategic analytical tool for food supplement manufacturers, plant extract formulators, R&D laboratories or biotechnology companies.

Proposed analytical methods

At YesWeLab, we offer several robust techniques for the identification and quantification of alpha-mangostin in different matrices:

• HPLC-DAD (liquid chromatography with UV detection): standard method for simple extracts, with specific detection at 320-340 nm.
• LC-MS/MS (liquid chromatography coupled with tandem mass spectrometry): ideal for complex matrices, increased sensitivity and rigorous traceability requirements.

These methods can be carried out according to internally validated protocols or according to pharmacopoeias, with the possibility of adapting them to the specific requirements of the industry.

Affected matrices

Alpha-mangostin dosage can be applied to a wide range of herbal products:

• Standardized dry extracts of mangosteen
• Micronized pericarp powders
• Concentrated juices or liquid mixtures
• Capsules, tablets, functional drinks
• Formulations with antioxidant or anti-inflammatory properties

The analysis can also be used to validate the stability of the active ingredient in aging or comparative efficacy tests.

Additional analyses available

For a comprehensive approach to the quality of mangosteen extracts, we recommend combining this analysis with other targeted assays:

• Total polyphenol assay (Folin-Ciocalteu) – to assess overall antioxidant activity
• Xanthone assay – for a full spectrum of xanthonoid compounds
• Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) dosage – often present in antioxidant formulations
• Antioxidant activity assay (DPPH, ORAC, ABTS) – to enhance functional claims

Compliance, valuation and quality control

Although alpha-mangostin is not currently classified as a regulated substance in Europe, products containing mangosteen extracts must comply with the following requirements:

• The INCO regulation for the labelling of food supplements
• To the requirements of traceability, standardization and stability
• When declaring active ingredients in Novel Food or nutrivigilance dossiers
• In the absence of contaminants or adulteration (e.g., botanical substitution or fraudulent dilution)

Thanks to the alpha-mangostine assay, you benefit from reliable analytical control to guarantee the conformity and added value of your formulations.

YesWeLab, expert in nutraceutical analyzes

Since 2020, YesWeLab has been supporting manufacturers, formulators, distributors, and research firms in managing their analyses. Our digital platform centralizes more than 2,000 analytical services related to plant-based ingredients, functional actives, nutritional extracts, and innovative formulations.

We select the most suitable laboratory for you, from a rigorously audited network (ISO 17025, COFRAC, pharmacopoeias, GLP validation if necessary).

Add this analysis to your quote request or contact our scientific team for personalized support. Fast results, technical advice, guaranteed responsiveness.