Avocado–Soybean Unsaponifiables: A Panoply of Potentialities to Be Exploited
Bahare Salehi, Antonio Rescigno, Tinuccia Dettori, Daniela Călina, Anca Oana Docea, Laxman Singh, Fatma Cebeci, Beraat Özçelik, Mohammed Bhia, Amirreza Dowlati Beirami, Javad Sharifi‐Rad, Farukh Sharopov, William C. Cho, Natália Martins
Abstract
Avocado and soybean unsaponifiables (ASU) constitute vegetable extracts made from fruits and seeds of avocado and soybean oil. Characterized by its potent anti-inflammatory effects, this ASU mixture is recommended to act as an adjuvant treatment for osteoarthritic pain and slow-acting symptomatic treatment of hip and knee osteoarthritis; autoimmune diseases; diffuse scleroderma and scleroderma-like states (e.g., morphea, sclerodactyly, scleroderma in bands). Besides, it was reported that it can improve the mood and quality of life of postmenopausal women in reducing menopause-related symptoms. This article aims to summarize the studies on biological effects of the avocado-soybean unsaponifiable, its chemical composition, pharmacotherapy as well as applications in auto-immune, osteoarticular and menopausal disorders. Finally, we will also discuss on its safety, toxicological and regulatory practices.