Photochemistry and Pharmacology of Avocado Leaves (Persea americana mill.) in Antihypertensive Activity

Abstract

Hypertension is a degenerative disease with a high global prevalence, characterized by blood pressure ≥140/90 mmHg. If not properly managed, it can progress into a chronic condition and lead to serious complications such as cardiovascular disease, stroke, and kidney disorders. Long-term pharmacological therapy is commonly used to control blood pressure; however, prolonged use of synthetic drugs may cause side effects, highlighting the need for safer and more accessible alternative therapies. One promising approach is the use of herbal medicine, including avocado leaves (Persea americana Mill.), which have been traditionally used for their antihypertensive properties. This study aimed to review the phytochemical content and pharmacological activity of avocado leaves in reducing blood pressure using a literature review method. Data were collected from Google Scholar and PubMed using relevant keywords, resulting in 231 articles, of which 10 were selected based on inclusion criteria. The findings indicate that avocado leaves contain bioactive compounds such as flavonoids, saponins, tannins, alkaloids, steroids, and terpenoids that contribute to blood pressure reduction through diuretic effects, vasodilation, reduced peripheral resistance, and inhibition of angiotensin-converting enzyme activity. Several experimental studies demonstrate that consuming 200 ml of avocado leaf decoction daily can significantly lower blood pressure in hypertensive patients. These results suggest that avocado leaves have potential as an adjunct therapy in hypertension management.