Avocado

Avocado has been part of the New World diet for about 2,500 years. The Avocado is believed to have originated in southern Mexico, and was cultivated there by 500 B. C. The Aztecs considered the Avocado, which they called Ahuacatl, to be an aphrodisiac. The Spanish conquerors of the Aztecs called the fruit ‘Aguacate’, which the English later interpreted as Avocado. In Florida, the Avocado was sometimes called ‘Alligator Pear’ due to its shape and its deep-green, textured skin. Avocados are now grown across the globe, but the main producer by far is California. Avocado is a very healthful fruit, containing numerous vitamins, minerals, and nutrients. Avocado contains even more potassium than Banana, which is essential for balancing electrolytes and preventing cramps. Avocado, like Spinach, is also a great source of lutein, which is good for the eyes and helps ward off prostate cancer. Another cancer fighting agent in Avocado is Vitamin E. Avocado also contains monounsaturated fats, which help reduce bad (LDL) cholesterol and increase good (HDL) cholesterol. It also contains folic acid, magnesium, and fiber. Avocado also contains the cholesterol reducing phytochemical betasitosterol.

(This herbal ingredient can be purchased from Viable Herbal Solutions in powdered and capsule form as part of our Single Herb sales program.)