Definition:
1. [n] pear-shaped tropical fruit with green or blackish skin and rich yellowish pulp enclosing a single large seed
2. [n] tropical American tree bearing large pulpy green fruits
3. [adj] of the dull yellowish green of the meat of an avocado
Common Name: Avocado, Alligator Pear (English); Aguacate, Palta (Spanish).
The avocado fruit may be round, pear shaped, or oblong, and the skin of the fruit may vary in texture and color. The skin may be pliable to woody, smooth to rough, and green-yellow, reddish-purple, purple, or black in color. The flesh of the fruit is greenish yellow to bright yellow when ripe and buttery in consistency, but inferior varieties may be fibrous. The avocado fruit has one large seed which makes up to 10 - 25% of the fruit weight. The fruit of different avocado varieties may vary in moisture and oil content, from less than 5% oil to more than 30% oil. Avocado fruits range from 0.25 lb to more than 3 lb in weight.
Avocado is a medium to large evergreen tree with large, leathery, deep green leaves.
Avocados provide monounsaturated fats that are known to break down cholesterol in the blood.
Avocado oil improves and stimulates the formation of soluble collagen and new cells in the skin, and is also a natural sunscreen and excellent moisturiser. This oil is easily absorbed by the skin. (Collagen tissue is damaged by the sun, pollution and aging.)
Why you should eat... avocados
It's not just because they taste great...
* Avocados are rich in vitamin E, which keeps skin hydrated; beta carotene, a potent antioxidant; and energy-boosting B vitamins.
* They also contain mono-unsaturated fatty acids, which promote healthy blood and glowing skin.
* Their green colour is derived from lutein, an antioxidant that's good for eyes.
* They're one of the rare fruit sources of protein, so are ideal for vegetarians.
last updated on 28-December-2005
