Anti-inflammatory Potential of Persea americana (Avocado) Leaves: A Systematic Review of Mechanisms and Preclinical Evidence
Abstract
Chronic inflammation contributes to major degenerative diseases such as diabetes, cancer, and cardiovascular disorders, while conventional anti-inflammatory therapies often pose toxicity risks. Avocado leaves (Persea americana Mill.) are traditionally used to manage inflammatory conditions, yet their molecular mechanisms remain underexplored. This systematic review aimed to evaluate the anti-inflammatory activity of avocado leaves and synthesize current evidence on their underlying mechanisms. A systematic literature search was conducted in Google Scholar, PubMed, and ScienceDirect from May 2015 to May 2025 following PRISMA guidelines. Studies were screened based on predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria, and risk of bias was assessed using appropriate tools. From an initial 286 records, five preclinical studies met the eligibility criteria and were included in the final analysis. Avocado leaves contain flavonoids such as quercetin, catechin, and epicatechin and demonstrate anti-inflammatory effects through multiple pathways, including inhibition of NF-κB signalling and activation of Nrf2-mediated antioxidant responses. Preclinical models have demonstrated beneficial effects in carrageenan-induced edema, radioprotection, wound healing, and toxin-induced oxidative stress models, although clinical evidence remains absent. Overall, avocado leaves show promise as a multi-target anti-inflammatory candidate; however, well-designed clinical trials and standardized extract characterization are required to establish their therapeutic potential.
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.37311/ijpe.v5i3.33555
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