We all know that avocado is a fruit which is quite popular among people. It’s widely sold in the market and planted in the backyard. Most people enjoy avocados in the form of juice in cafes to restaurants. Avocado fruit can be consumed both directly or processed into various food or drinks.
Meanwhile, avocado seeds have been reported to have some health benefits too. Avocado seeds are believed to have some health benefits too, such as treating high blood pressure, diabetes and treat inflammation in the body.
Avocado seeds are also rich in antioxidants, such as phenols and flavonoids that can reduce damage caused by free radicals. Avocado seeds can be enjoyed in the form of tea, called avocado seed tea.
Avocado seed tea is simple to make, just by removing the outer layer of the seed, chopping the seed into fine pieces and boil the pieces in a cup of water for 5 minutes.
Let’s check each of these health benefits of avocado seed tea.
1. Rich in antioxidants
There was a study conducted by the National University of Singapore in 2003 which observed the antioxidant content in the seeds of various fruits: mango, avocado, and other tropical fruits.
The study discovered that the seeds of the fruits contain 70% more antioxidant than the fruit itself. In the other words, when you eat the seeds, you can help prevent oxidative stress at the cellular level in the body.
The antioxidants in avocado seed tea can help reduce cell aging, fight inflammation and improve the condition of the whole body.
2. Source of potassium
Avocado seeds are part of the fruit which is rich in potassium. That’s why it is a good and excellent source of fluid which balance the nutrients. Potassium is able to remove the excess toxins and fluids from the body and reduce muscle cramps.
3. Prevent cancer
There was some research focusing on cancer drugs which have been carried out for a long time. However, recently, avocado seeds have received more attention from researchers who examine its relationship with the prevention of AML (acute myelocytic leukemia). AML is originated in the bone marrow and after it develops, it will spread to the bloodstream in the form of leukemia.
Cancer is a serious disease that needs extra attention and treatment. However, there are some things you can do to prevent cancer. Read more about it in benefits of avocado leaves for cancer.
4. Balance cholesterol levels
Do you know that avocado seed is considered one of the foods that is high in fiber? Fiber can help balance your cholesterol level. There’s research from Penn State University’s Department of Food Science found out that avocado seeds has benefits on cardiovascular health.
Some researchers have noted that avocado seeds may have some impacts on improving hypercholesterolemia. It is useful in treating some health problems, such as hypertension, inflammatory conditions and diabetes.
5. Help eliminate microbial growth
The residue of avocado seed contains a high amount of polyphenols, which make the seeds powerful antioxidants and antimicrobials. The polyphenols are catechin, epicatechin, chlorogenic, and protocatechuic acid.
The residue of avocado seed is shown to be very effective in preventing oxidation and microbial growth.
Cautions
Despite the fact that avocado seed tea is beneficial for our health, there are some cautions you need to pay attention to. There’s a commission called the California Avocado Commission stated that the flesh of avocado is great, but the seed is not that much.
Avocado seed extract or powder is considered safe for short-term consumption, however, we need more studies to find evidence that ensures that it is a safe option.
The key is consume something in a moderate amount, not too much. Not because it is good, then you can consume as much as you want. Keep in mind that healthy body does not only come from a certain food type, but a healthy lifestyle too.
If you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, or have any particular health conditions, you’d better avoid consuming this. Consult with your doctor for further information.
If you love avocado, you can consider reading these health benefits of eating avocado before bed. Avocado can also be consumed in other forms, such as oil and leaves. Read more about it in health benefits of drinking boiled avocado leaves and health benefits of avocado oil for skin.
If you love drinking tea, then you can also consider drinking some other types of tea, such as black tea, oolong tea, green tea, and many more. Find out more about benefits of tea in these benefits of horsetail tea.