Avocados are the fruit from the Persea americana tree, which is native to warm climates such as those found in Mexico, South and Central America and the Caribbean, although they are also grown in California and Florida as well. The fruit will only ripen once it has been picked from the tree. Oil can be pressed from the fruit, and natural avocado oil is both edible as well as used in body care products such as massage oil.

There are both color and scent differences between refined and unrefined avocado oil that you will want to know about before you buy avocado oil. Refined avocado oil has no scent and is pale gold in color. Unrefined avocado oil has a deep green to brown color and does have a strong scent. Refined oil is sometimes preferred for facial lotions and skin moisturizing treatments because it is odor free, but both work well for smoothing and keeping the skin supple.

When eaten, bulk avocado oil may help with cholesterol levels. Bad LDL cholesterol levels may drop while good HDL levels may increase. Bulk avocado oil may also offer an antibacterial quality. The fat found in avocados is monounsaturated, and they are also high in potassium, B vitamins, as well as vitamins E and K.

Other avocado oil uses include topical ones. Because of its high fat content, bulk avocado oil may help to moisturize the skin, and is sometimes included as an ingredient in lotions for the skin as well as massage oil.

Natural avocado oil may also be used for massaging into the skin because it is quickly absorbed by the skin so there is no greasy feeling and it leaves the skin smooth. It may also help sunburned and wind-damaged skin, and it is used as an ingredient in cosmetics as well as hair products.

As with all herbal products, they have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration, and should not be used to diagnose or treat a disease or health problem. If you believe that you have a medical issue, you should consult with a health care provider promptly.