Avocado as Medicine

Avocado is an edible fruit that is found in the Philippines. The scientific name of avocado is Persea americana. Avocado is used as herbal medicine in Mexico and in many parts of the world. In England and other English speaking countries it is sometimes called “alligator pear.” In South America and other Spanish speaking countries, it is called aguacate or palta. Avocado is rich in monounsaturated fatty acids, a healthy form of fat. They also have high fiber content.

Avocado as herbal and traditional medicine

In a 1998 study that was published in Arthritis & Rheumatism Journal suggests that avocado is a possible symptomatic treatment for arthritis of the knee and hip. Avocado seeds and bark can be mixed with oil to relieve pain associated with rheumatism.

In Archives of Medical Research, 1996, it has been reported that an avocado-enriched diet can improve the lipid profile in patients with mild increase in blood cholesterol levels. Avocado was also found to lower bad cholesterol and increase the level of good cholesterol.

In the 2005 issue of Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry, avocado was found to contain cancer-preventing properties called carotenoids. The monounsaturated fats found in avocado act synergistically with other phytochemicals or other cancer-preventing properties that are found in fruits and vegetables. Avocado has anti-prostate cancer properties.

The 2002 Journal of Nutrition reported on avocado pulp’s ability to reduce body weight. It has been found out that avocado is a good appetite depressant.

Avocado is like antibiotics. The extracts from avocado peel, seed, and pulp was reported to have antibacterial effects against gram-positive bacteria. This means that avocado pulp can treat wounds with pus. Decoction from avocado seeds can relieve toothaches. It can also be used as mouthwash. Avocado flesh is used to relieve pain and itchiness caused by sunburn. Avocado is a known aphrodisiac. The fruit can also control blood sugar level of patients with diabetes.

Avocado tablet

Avocado tablet appears to be safe as food supplement. However, there are no long-term studies yet that can verify their safety.