Avocado

Parts Usually Used

The fruit flesh, seed, leaves, and oil extracted from the fruit flesh are used.

Description of Plant(s) and Culture

The avocado tree produces a fruit with creamy green flesh covered by a thick, dark green to brown bumpy skin. Avocados are technically berries and have a round, pear, or egg shape. Hass is the most common variety worldwide. Avocados grow in tropical and warm climates. They begin ripening only after being harvested.

Where Found

Avocados are native to Mexico and Central America. They are cultivated in many parts of the world including North America, South America, Peru, Kenya, and South Africa. California is the top producer in the United States. Mexico is the world’s leading exporter of avocados as of 2022.

Medicinal Properties

Studies suggest avocados may help: Lower total and LDL cholesterol while raising HDL cholesterol, supporting heart health Prevent age-related macular degeneration due to lutein and zeaxanthin content Decrease risk of certain cancers like prostate and colon cancer, likely due to folate and phytochemicals Reduce risk of miscarriage and neural tube defects in pregnancy due to folate content Lower risk of depression by preventing homocysteine buildup and regulating neurotransmitters Promote digestive health and prevent constipation due to high fiber content Provide antimicrobial action against bacteria and fungi Help manage weight by increasing feelings of fullness after eating Improve skin, scalp, and nail health when applied topically due to fatty acid content Compounds in avocado called avocado-soybean unsaponifiables (ASU) may help relieve symptoms of osteoarthritis by reducing inflammation.

Preliminary research also suggests potential for avocado leaf and seed extracts to induce cancer cell death, but more studies are needed.

Biochemical Information

Avocados are rich in monounsaturated fats, fiber, potassium, magnesium, vitamins K, C, E, B6, folate, lutein, beta-sitosterol, and other plant compounds. The monounsaturated fat content may be responsible for avocados’ heart health benefits.

Legends, Myths and Stories

Avocados have been consumed since prehistoric times. The Aztecs considered them an aphrodisiac and source of strength. In the 16th century they were described as delicious and healthy for sick people. Avocados started gaining popularity as a health food in the early 2000s.

Uses

Historically, the fruit was consumed fresh and incorporated into culinary preparations such as guacamole, salads, sandwiches, and blended beverages. The extracted oil was traditionally employed in cooking. Folk traditions also involved the external application of mashed fruit pulp or oil to the skin and scalp for moisturizing purposes.

How Sold

Whole fresh and frozen avocados, dried avocado powder, cold-pressed avocado oil, avocado oil capsules, and avocado leaf extract supplements are available.