by Angie Pollock

Created on: September 22, 2008   Last Updated: November 11, 2011

In many parts of the world, the avocado is considered a wonder food. For thousands of years the avocado has been cultivated and used for a variety of reasons in Central America where it is a native fruit. The avocado has been traditionally used in many cultures as a food source as well as to heal and treat many skin conditions. This amazing food has more benefits than you may be aware of.

Rich in potassium and vitamins A, B, D, and E, the avocado can frequently be found in expensive spa facial treatments but many of these high-priced treatments can contain ingredients that your skin doesn't need or have fragrances that the skin may have reactions to. The best way to utilize the avocado for the skin is by simply smashing the meat of the fruit with a fork and applying it directly to the skin.

Simply massage the flesh into the skin and leave for 15 to 30 minutes. Rinse away with warm water. Using plain avocado on the skin is the best treatment for dry skin conditions. If you prefer a more firm mask, a tablespoon of honey can be added to the avocado and honey also has added benefits for the skin. I like to add some yogurt to the mix as yogurt is known to have excellent exfoliating properties.

For oily skin, add a teaspoon of lemon juice and one egg white to some avocado. Leave on the skin for 15 to 30 minutes and rinse away with warm water. Avocado is generally recommended only for dry skin because of the oil content in the avocado. Both masks only need to be used one to two times weekly and in no time, you will have softer and more radiant skin.

There are many individuals who use the avocado to treat eczema and sensitive skin on many parts of the body, not just the face. The avocado has a high content of sterolins in the oils that contribute to the moisturizing effect the fruit has on the skin. A study conducted by the Department of Food Engineering and Biotechnology showed that unrefined avocado oil may increase the collagen content in the skin.

Many individuals with aging skin use avocado oil to reduce age spots and increase the elasticity of the skin. The avocado can soothe sunburns, dry-itchy skin and works beautifully to soften and add shine to dull hair. By adding an egg yolk and a half teaspoon of olive oil to some avocado, you will be on your way to silky, soft hair.

The avocado can be utilized for more than just a bowl of guacamole.  Ancient Indian tribes including the Mayan and Aztec used avocados on the skin. The Aztec named the fruit "ahuacatl" meaning "testicle" and since the Spanish couldn't pronounce the Aztec name, they gave avocado the name "aguacate". In South Africa, the avocado is still used to counteract the effects the sun has on the skin.

Forget about the expensive avocado treatments that are mass produced, most of these products contain very little avocado or avocado oil. Making your own avocado treatment is simple, less expensive and best of all, it is all natural with only the ingredients that you skin needs.

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