Avocados, which are fruits by the way and not vegetables, have also been called alligator pears because of their shape and skin color. California produces about 90% of the nation’s Avocado crop.
Avocados are rich in vitamins A, D and E, lecithin (a natural antioxidant, conditioner and moisturizer), beta-carotene (which converts to Vitamin A promoting healthy skin and nails) and more than 20% essential fatty acids.
To prolong the life of you avocados, peel, seed and puree them, add a little lemon juice, put the mixture in an air-tight container and freeze. It will last up to four to five months before using.
Avocado oil is derived from the pulp of fresh avocados. Although the avocado is a fruit, its oil is categorized as a vegetable oil. The oil promotes the regeneration of scarred skin and softens and conditions dry, flaky skin and scalp. Avocado oil has a long shelf life (organic avocado oil last the longest.
Oil expressed from the flesh is rich in vitamins A, B, G and E. The oil contains vital amino acid such as oleic and linoleic, which are essential fatty acids that help eliminate eczema, psoriasis, dandruff, and aid in the prevention of hair loss.
Oleic is an omega nine fatty acid, rich in antioxidants which fight the side affects of free radicals, moisturizer and also aids in stronger and thicker hair growth.
Linoleic is an omega three fatty acid, anti-inflammatory and promotes healthy hair growth. Both oleic and linoleic help in the absorption of Vitamins A , E and K, which work with essential fatty acids to provide healthy sheen to your hair and skin as well.
Avocado oil can be used to do scalp massages, as a pre-shampoo treatment, a hot oil treatment, and can even be added to your favorite conditioner to enhance its moisturizing properties.
Avocado Oil Shampoo
To prepare an avocado oil hair shampoo, you will need 1 teaspoon avocado oil, 1/2 teaspoon coconut or olive oil and 6 oz liquid castile soap. Mix all the ingredients together and store it in a bottle for at least 2 days to allow the ingredients to set. Use it to shampoo your hair on a regular basis.
Avocado Deep Conditioner
Peel, seed and mash one avocado and add 1 cup of coconut milk. Combine the ingredients together and mash until the mixture is smooth and thick. I strongly suggest you use a mixer for this or you will have bits and pieces of avocado in your hair that will take forever to rinse out.
Comb the mixture through your hair and wait about 10-15 minutes (you can also sit with a plastic cap on as well), then rinse off, making your final rinse with cool water.
Check out my Avocado and Coconut Milk Deep Conditioner Video
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