Scientists tested whether a special extract from mangosteen fruit combined with amino acids (building blocks of protein) could help Nile tilapia fish grow better and stay healthier. Over 8 weeks, fish that received both the mangosteen extract and amino acids grew significantly larger, had better digestion, and were much more likely to survive a bacterial infection compared to fish that didn’t receive these supplements. This research suggests that these natural ingredients work together to boost fish health, which could help fish farms produce healthier fish more sustainably.

The Quick Take

  • What they studied: Whether a combination of mangosteen extract and amino acids could improve fish growth, immune system strength, gut health, and ability to fight bacterial infections in farmed tilapia.
  • Who participated: 360 Nile tilapia fish divided into four groups: a control group (no supplements), a group receiving only mangosteen extract, a group receiving only amino acids, and a group receiving both supplements together.
  • Key finding: Fish that received both the mangosteen extract and amino acids grew about 20-30% larger, had better feed conversion (meaning they gained more weight from the same amount of food), and had a 58% survival rate when exposed to a harmful bacteria, compared to much lower survival rates in other groups.
  • What it means for you: While this research focuses on farmed fish, it suggests that natural plant extracts combined with amino acids may work together to boost growth and immune function. However, more research is needed before these findings can be applied to human nutrition or other animals.

The Research Details

Researchers divided 360 tilapia fish into four equal groups and fed them different diets for 8 weeks. The first group ate regular fish food (control), the second group’s food contained mangosteen extract, the third group’s food contained amino acids, and the fourth group received both supplements. The scientists measured how much the fish grew, tested their blood for signs of health, examined their intestines under a microscope, analyzed the bacteria living in their guts, and finally exposed all fish to a harmful bacteria to see which groups could fight it off best.

This approach is called a ‘controlled feeding trial’ because researchers carefully controlled everything the fish ate and measured multiple health markers. By comparing all four groups, scientists could see whether the mangosteen extract alone helped, the amino acids alone helped, or whether combining them worked even better.

The researchers used advanced technology to turn the mangosteen extract into tiny particles (nanoemulsion), which may help fish absorb it better. They also analyzed the fish’s genes to see which health-related genes were activated by the supplements.

This research design is important because it tests whether two ingredients work better together than separately. Many supplements are tested alone, but in real life, we often consume multiple nutrients at once. By testing the combination, scientists can discover ‘synergistic effects’—when two things work together to create a bigger benefit than either one alone. This is especially valuable for the aquaculture industry, which is looking for sustainable ways to improve fish health without using antibiotics.

This study has several strengths: it used a large sample size (360 fish), included a proper control group, measured many different health markers (growth, immunity, gut health, disease resistance), and used modern analytical techniques like gene expression analysis and microbiota sequencing. The study was published in a peer-reviewed scientific journal, meaning other experts reviewed it before publication. However, the study was conducted only in fish, so results may not apply to other animals or humans. The exact impact factor of the journal and whether this study has been replicated by other researchers would provide additional confidence in the findings.

What the Results Show

Fish that received both the mangosteen extract and amino acids showed the most impressive improvements across nearly every measure. Their final body weight was significantly higher, they gained weight faster, and they converted their food into body mass more efficiently—meaning they needed less food to grow the same amount as control fish. The combination group also had the highest fillet yield, which is important for fish farming because it means more usable meat per fish.

When scientists examined the fish’s blood, they found higher levels of beneficial proteins and enzymes that support immune function and digestion. Gene expression analysis showed that immune-related genes (IL-1β, IL-6, IL-8) and growth-related genes (GH, GHR2, IGF-II) were significantly more active in fish receiving the combination treatment. This suggests the supplements were actually turning on the fish’s natural defense and growth systems at the genetic level.

Microscopic examination of the intestines revealed that fish receiving both supplements had taller intestinal finger-like projections (villi), thicker muscle layers, and more mucus-producing cells. These changes mean the fish had better intestinal structure for absorbing nutrients. Analysis of gut bacteria showed that the combination treatment increased the diversity of beneficial bacteria and shifted the microbial community toward health-promoting species.

Most dramatically, when all fish were exposed to a harmful bacteria (Streptococcus agalactiae), the combination group had a 58% survival rate, compared to much lower rates in other groups. This means nearly 6 out of 10 fish in the combination group survived the infection, while control fish had much lower survival rates.

Fish receiving only the mangosteen extract alone showed some improvements in growth and immune markers, but not as dramatic as the combination. Fish receiving only amino acids also showed benefits, but again, less impressive than the combination. This pattern suggests that the two ingredients truly work synergistically—together they’re more powerful than either one alone. The digestive enzyme activity was particularly enhanced in the combination group, suggesting better nutrient absorption. The increased goblet cell density (mucus-producing cells) in the intestines is important because mucus protects the intestinal lining and supports beneficial bacteria.

Previous research has shown that mangosteen extract contains powerful antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds. Amino acids are known to support growth and immune function. However, this appears to be one of the first studies to test whether combining these two ingredients in fish creates synergistic benefits. The results align with growing scientific interest in using natural plant extracts and amino acids as alternatives to antibiotics in aquaculture, addressing concerns about antibiotic resistance in farmed fish.

This study was conducted only in tilapia fish, so results may not apply to other fish species or to humans. The study lasted 8 weeks, which is relatively short-term; longer studies would show whether benefits persist. The exact mechanisms explaining why these ingredients work together synergistically weren’t fully explored. The study didn’t test different doses, so it’s unclear whether higher or lower amounts might work better. Finally, the cost-effectiveness of using these supplements in commercial fish farming wasn’t evaluated, which is important for practical application.

The Bottom Line

Based on this research, there is moderate evidence that combining mangosteen extract with amino acids may enhance growth, immune function, and disease resistance in tilapia. However, these findings are specific to fish and haven’t been tested in humans. If you’re interested in similar natural supplements for human health, consult with a healthcare provider, as human nutrition is more complex and individual needs vary. For aquaculture producers, this research suggests potential benefits worth further investigation, though cost-benefit analysis and larger-scale trials would be needed before widespread adoption.

Fish farmers and aquaculture companies should find this research particularly relevant, as it offers a potential natural alternative to antibiotics for improving fish health. Nutritionists and researchers interested in synergistic nutrient combinations may also find this valuable. However, consumers shouldn’t assume these findings automatically apply to human supplements, as fish and humans have different digestive systems and nutritional needs. People with mangosteen allergies or those taking certain medications should consult healthcare providers before using mangosteen-based products.

In the fish studied, improvements in growth were visible within the 8-week study period, with the most dramatic changes (disease resistance) measured at the end. If similar supplements were developed for humans, realistic timelines would likely be longer—probably several weeks to months—before noticeable improvements in growth or immune function. Individual results would vary based on baseline health, diet quality, and other factors.

Want to Apply This Research?

  • If using a supplement based on these findings, track weekly body weight and energy levels. Also monitor digestive health by noting any changes in digestion comfort or consistency. For immune support, track frequency of minor illnesses or infections over a 12-week period.
  • Users could set a daily reminder to take a mangosteen and amino acid supplement at the same time each day. Pair this with tracking overall wellness metrics like energy levels, digestion quality, and illness frequency in the app. Create a goal to maintain consistent supplementation for at least 8-12 weeks to allow time for potential benefits to appear.
  • Establish a baseline measurement before starting supplementation (weight, energy level, digestive comfort, illness frequency). Then track these metrics weekly or bi-weekly for 12 weeks. Create a simple dashboard showing trends over time. Set reminders for consistent supplement timing. Consider periodic check-ins with a healthcare provider to ensure the supplement is appropriate and to discuss any changes in health markers.

This research was conducted in tilapia fish and has not been tested in humans. The findings should not be interpreted as medical advice or recommendations for human consumption. Mangosteen extract and amino acid supplements are not approved by the FDA for treating, curing, or preventing any disease. Before starting any new supplement regimen, consult with a qualified healthcare provider, especially if you have existing health conditions, take medications, or are pregnant or nursing. Individual results may vary, and supplements should not replace a balanced diet or medical treatment. This summary is for educational purposes only and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice.