Mangosteen fruit could help cure schizophrenia: Aussie researchers
Source: Xinhua 2016-10-11
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SYDNEY, Oct. 11 (Xinhua) -- Aussie researchers say Asia's mangosteen
fruit could hold the key to treating patients with schizophrenia, an illness
that effects the normal functioning of the human brain. Researchers from the
University of Queensland have begun a two-year clinical trial involving
extracts from the native tropical fruit from Indonesia after previous studies
showed that antioxidants found inside the mangosteen rind could help treat
schizophrenia patients with no side-effects at all. Lead researcher Professor
John McGrath from the Queensland Brain Institute said the clinical trial was
done to determine the role of mangosteens in easing the symptoms of psychosis.
"This is a gentle and safe intervention which evidence so far
suggests could improve symptoms, and it's important we investigate its
potential as a matter of urgency," McGrath said in a statement on Tuesday.
"We aren't suggesting this is a wonder drug, but we must
investigate potential new treatments which are safe, effective and don't have
the current medication's side-effects like weight gain, which can lead to other
major health problems."
"Finding better treatments for schizophrenia is difficult, it will
take decades, so let's start now," he said.
Mangosteen is a tropical evergreen fruit and can be found in several
Southeast Asian countries. The thick purple rind of the fruit contains
compounds called xanthones which are often used in herbal teas and traditional
medicines. The trial run will involve 150 schizophrenia patients in Brisbane
and Geelong, Victoria in which participants will receive two tablets (that have
mangosteen extracts) a day for 24 weeks, followed by a four week follow-up. During
the trial period, patients symptoms will be closely monitored, to see whether
hallucinations, delusions, moods and energy levels get improved with the
consumption of the tablet, the university said.
Mangosteen fruit could help cure schizophrenia:
Aussie researchers
Read more at http://www.mb.com.ph/mangosteen-fruit-could-help-cure-schizophrenia-aussie-researchers/#x9dwRtoM7xocEvfX.99
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