Özet:

Persea americana (Avocado) fruits were consumed by only Native Americans until the early 1500s, while Europe was recognized by the discovery of the America Continent and then spread throughout the world. In Turkey, widespread consumption of the fruits as nutrients and gaining commercial importance have increased in recent years, but the cultivation of the plant dates back to the 1980s. Today, several varieties of Persea american species are cultivated, especially in Antalya, Mersin, and Hatay. There are many studies reveal that avocado is a rich source of minerals (especially potassium), vitamins (especially vitamins E and C), proteins, phytosterols, and fatty acids. In vitro studies have shown that the leaf extracts of P. American has anti-HIV, cytotoxic, and insecticidal effects; the seed oil has gastroprotective, antihelminthic and, antioxidant effects; the fruit has antibacterial effect. The study aims to review the research studies on the chemical composition, medicinal effect and use of P. americana, and also to determine and emphasize the medicinal potential of the cultivated species in Turkey.The findings of this study indicate that the soil and climate conditions of the Mediterranean region are suitable for the growth of P. Americana with rich content, and further studies are needed for the medical evaluation of this plant.

Anahtar Kelimeler:

Özet:

Persea americana (Avocado) fruits were consumed by only Native Americans until early 1500’s, while Europe was recognized by the discovery of the America Continent and then spread all over the world. In Turkey, widespread consumption of the fruits as nutrients and gaining commercial importance have increased in recent years, but the cultivation of the plant dates back to the 1980s. Today, several varieties of Persea americana species are cultivated, especially in Antalya, Mersin, and Hatay. There are many studies reveal that avocado is a rich source of minerals (especially potassium), vitamins (especially vitamins E and C), protein, phytosterols, and fatty acids. In vitro studies have shown that the leaf extracts of P. americana have anti-HIV, cytotoxic, and insecticidal effects; the seed oil has gastroprotective, antihelminthic and, antioxidant effects; the fruit has antibacterial effect. The study aims that to review the research studies on the chemical composition, medicinal effect and usage of P. americana, and also to determine and emphasize the medicinal potential of the cultivated species in Turkey.The findings of this study indicate that the soil and climatic conditions of the Mediterranean region are suitable for the growth of P. Americana with rich content, and further studies are needed for the medical evaluation of this plant.