No proof that mango seeds can cure fibroids

What are fibroids?

Fibroids are non-cancerous growths made of muscle and other tissue that form in or around the womb. Many people with fibroids do not experience symptoms, but around one in three may have heavy bleeding and pain during menstruation, pain in the lower back or abdomen, or pain during sex. Rare complications sometimes also impact fertility and pregnancy.

There are several types of fibroids, depending on where they are growing, whether inside or outside the muscle wall of the womb or in the womb itself.

Scientists do not know what causes fibroids, but they believe hormones like estrogen and progesterone play a role. Fibroids often grow when there are higher levels of these hormones and shrink when there are lower levels. 

Certain factors may increase the likelihood of developing fibroids, including a family history of fibroids, not having children, or a higher body mass index.

Fibroids are common and often go undiagnosed because they don’t cause symptoms. They are usually found during routine healthcare examinations of the uterus, but can also be detected during various medical scans. 

Mango seeds as a treatment

There is no scientific evidence that mango seeds have any effect on fibroids. Mango is a tropical fruit that is widely enjoyed for its sweet taste and juicy texture. They are a good source of antioxidants and nutrients, including vitamins A and C, and fibre. 

Mangoes contain an ingredient called mangiferin, which might help to protect cells from damage and inflammation. However, while mangoes provide beneficial nutrients and antioxidants, Africa Check could not find any published research showing that consuming mango seed extract or powder can shrink fibroids or impact their development.

The National Institutes of Health (NIH), a US-based medical research agency, has published a study reviewing herbal supplements for fibroids, and mango seed is not included as a proven or recommended treatment.

Some studies suggest eating plenty of fruits and vegetables may help maintain hormone balance and reduce inflammation, which could lower the risk of developing fibroids. 

Medical treatments vs home remedies

There are several proven ways to treat fibroids, depending on the symptoms and individual health needs. Some treatments use hormone-based medicines to help balance oestrogen levels and ease symptoms like heavy bleeding or pain. 

Pain can also be managed with common anti-inflammatory medications, similar to what you might take for period pain. In some cases, doctors can block the blood flow to the fibroids, which causes them to shrink. 

If the fibroids are large or causing serious problems, surgery might be needed. This could involve removing just the fibroids or, in severe cases, removing the whole womb. There are also less invasive options, like a treatment that uses focused sound waves guided by a magnetic resonance imaging scan to destroy the fibroids without any cuts or surgery.

Medical experts warn against unproven remedies. In a 2022 article, Nigerian gynaecologist Dr Stanley Egbogu explained that a delay in receiving a proper diagnosis or proven treatments could allow fibroids to grow. This may lead to complications like heavy blood loss and miscarriages.

Experts have also previously told Africa Check that there are no proven “natural” cures for fibroids.

If you suspect that you have fibroids, see a medical doctor.