Pharmacological Significance of Tropical Oils: A Comprehensive Overview for Future Directions in Health, Food Security and Economy

Abstract

The production of tropical oils supports millions of smallholder farmers and significantly influences the national economies of major producing regions such as South America, Africa, and Southeast Asia. However, environmental concerns such as loss of biodiversity and greenhouse gas emissions that may impact economic implications, health benefits and food security have not been well crystallized. Moreover, insights into their pharmacological mechanisms of action that are required to facilitate optimal investigations remain poorly understood. The aim of this review was thus to investigate the pharmacological properties and implications of a selected group of tropical oils (coconut oil, palm oil, palm kernel oil, groundnut oil, avocado oil, and shea butter) in health, food security and economy. The rich array of phytochemicals contained in tropical oils play a major role in their pharmacology and health benefits. Thus, to balance economic growth, health concerns, and food security, we underscore the necessity of multidisciplinary approach involving researchers, politicians, industry stakeholders, and consumers that would guarantee future generations the long-term sustainability of these valuable natural resources through environmentally friendly methods of cultivation, processing, and consumption.