Almond oil is widely popular in the Mediterranean region and Southeast Asia where it was first domesticated. The oil extracted from almond kernels promotes skin health and heart health. It has a high content of monounsaturated fatty acids, Vitamin E, potassium, proteins, and zinc as well as vitamins and minerals that are healthy for the skin, heart, and hair. Almond oil may be sweet and bitter. The oil extracted from bitter almonds makes bitter almond oil due to the presence of amygdalin which changes into toxic hydrocyanic acid while processing. Though bitter almond oil has some medicinal properties, it is avoided due to the chances of poisoning.

The almond oil is derived from the dried kernels of almond. It has a high content of fatty acids as well as Vitamin E. It has humectant and emollient properties that help to soften the skin and prevent it from loss of moisture. It is used by aromatherapists and massage uses. It also possesses Vitamin B1, A, B6, B2, Vitamin D, and Vitamin E. The antioxidant properties are available due to the presence of Vitamin E in almonds. It helps to neutralize free radicals and protects the important cell structures. The studies also show that it lowers the effects of erythema, psoriasis and lowers the chances of skin cancer.

Almond oil facts

History

Almonds are native to the Middle East and South Asia. The tree of almonds was originated from Sub tropical China as well as the Middle East which grows at the height of 3-6 meters. Recently it is cultivated in Europe, Africa, and California of the United States. It has been used for centuries for its multiple benefits. It is used to treat dry skin such as eczema and psoriasis. Almonds were originated in Asia and the Middle east. The tree of almonds firstly appeared in the U.S that was recorded in the 19th century.

Health Benefits of Almond oil

Almond oil is loaded with various medicinal uses as well as health benefits. It has immune-boosting, anti-hepatoxicity, and anti-inflammatory properties. The oil is pale golden to brown in color with light in texture. This oil helps to improve the health of hair and skin without side effects.

1. Cholesterol level

Almond oil is able to regulate cholesterol levels. The daily intake of almond oil increases the level of HDL cholesterol and lowers LDL cholesterol naturally. It also allows the flow of nutrients and oxygen freely through blood.

2. Heart health

Almond oil regulates the level of cholesterol if included in the diet. It also lowers the chances of cardiovascular ailments according to the studies. It prevents the heart diseases such as chronic inflammation and high cholesterol.

3. Prevent diabetes

Diabetes is a health condition that occurs due to the rise in blood sugar as the pancreas of cells is not able to produce insulin properly. It helps to regulate the level of blood sugar and prevents the condition of diabetes.

4. Maintains healthy weight

A diet rich in almonds assists in losing weight. The research shows that the people who take almonds in the diet show a loss in weight in comparison to those who did not include almonds in their diets.

5. Colon health

Almond oil is helpful for maintaining health. The intake of almonds lowers the chances of colon cancer. The injection of almond oil is used to treat rectal prolapse in children. It acts as a laxative that provides relief from constipation. The intake of two tablespoons of almond oil is helpful.

6. Cure earaches

Almond oil is helpful to provide relief from ear pain. It is also used to soften ear wax and soothe the blockage in ventilation tubes of the ear. It is safe for the ear even if the ear has microscopic cuts inside it. Warm the tablespoon in hot water and put three drops of almond oil on the spoon. Then drop it in the ear and allow it to go down.

7. Skin and hair health

Almond oil is able to keep the hair and skin healthy. It could be used for sensitive skin as well. Due to its antioxidant properties, it prevents damage caused by UV rays and makes the skin soft as well as supple. Due to its light texture, it absorbs the skin quickly. It also prevents the condition of acne due to the presence of Vitamin A. Apply a few drops of almond oil to the dark circle’s area, it helps to eliminate it. Apply almond oil to the face, this slows down the signs of aging and assist in the renovation of facial skin. This oil is also helpful for psoriasis and eczema. It provides relief from itchiness, inflammation, and redness caused by eczema and psoriasis.

What Are The Health Benefits Of Almond Oil For Body, Mind, Skin?

The unsaturated fatty acids and vitamin E are the most important nutrients in the oil. Healthy fats promote heart health and aid in diabetes treatment. The vitamin E in the oil enhances skin health.

1. May Promote Skin Health

Almond oil can rejuvenate the skin and improve your complexion. These properties might help reduce acne scars (4).

The oil is replete with vitamin E that works wonders on your skin. It can treat acne and reduce inflammation. It achieves this by preventing lipid peroxidation that is caused by acne-causing bacteria. However, we need a better understanding of this vitamin to evaluate its effectiveness on skin health (7).

Topical vitamin E was also found to protect the skin from photoaging and skin cancer in mice studies (8). Anecdotal evidence suggests that almond oil works for all skin types, and it helps soften and recondition the skin.

Some research also shows that almond oil can help ease the symptoms of psoriasis and eczema (4). This may be due to the moisturizing properties of the oil.

The vitamin E in almond oil may also reduce dark circles. Research is limited, but anecdotal evidence shows that it helps. Here’s how you can use it. Cleanse your face and massage a small amount of almond oil under your eyes. This massage boosts blood circulation. You can do this at night and wash your eyes in the morning. Following this regularly may also give you beautiful skin.

The oil works for sunburns too. Mice studies show that topical almond oil can prevent the structural damage caused by UV irradiation (9). Gentle application of the oil to the affected areas might help.

Almond oil also helps in reducing stretch marks, although bitter almond oil was found to be effective in this aspect. A 15-minute gentle massage with bitter almond oil during pregnancy may reduce the development of stretch marks (medically called striae gravidarum) (10). But we suggest you use almond oil only after consulting your doctor as it may lead to preterm birth.

Regular application of and massage with almond oil may also reduce wrinkles, under-eye bags, and dark circles. You can also apply almond oil for treating dark or chapped lips. But there is no scientific research to prove these benefits.

2. May Improve Hair And Scalp Health

Many people have sworn by the efficacy of almond oil in boosting hair and scalp health. But sufficient research is absent.

Using almond oil on your hair may make it softer to touch. You might even find it easy to comb and style through your hair.

Almond oil contains vitamin E. This nutrient can reduce the oxidative stress in the scalp, cut down the risk of alopecia, and boost hair growth (11). Almond oil may achieve the same, given its high vitamin E content.

The moisturizing properties of the oil may also help treat dry scalp and dandruff. Some believe that almond oil may also promote hair growth. However, more research is warranted in this aspect.

3. May Protect Your Heart

The monounsaturated fats in the oil lower LDL cholesterol (the bad cholesterol) and elevate HDL cholesterol (the good cholesterol) (12). Thus, almond oil may reduce the risk of heart disease.

A diet high in monounsaturated fatty acids can also lower blood pressure levels, more so in obese individuals (13). Almond oil contains a combination of mono and polyunsaturated fatty acids. These two greatly contribute to cardiovascular health (14).

Monounsaturated fatty acids also prevent arteriosclerosis, a condition characterized by the hardening of the arterial walls (15).

Studies also state that consuming mono and polyunsaturated fatty foods in place of saturated fats can have greater benefits for heart health (16). In other words, ditching saturated fats is equally important.

According to the American Heart Association, adding almond oil to the diet should be supplemented by a reduction of the intake of foods like fatty beef, lamb, pork, butter and cheese, and all baked and fried items. This is because all of these foods contain saturated fat (17).

4. May Promote Weight Loss

A diet rich in monounsaturated fats may induce weight loss (18). It may also improve lipid profiles in obese individuals. These fats promote energy balance, which may help one maintain a healthy weight (19).

However, almond oil doesn’t contain fiber as almonds do. Hence, you can supplement the oil with a balanced diet and exercise for healthy weight loss instead of relying on it alone. Having better lifestyle habits will help you lose weight.

5. May Promote Rectal And Digestive Health

Almond oil has quite a number of uses in boosting digestive health.

One of them is almond oil injections that treat rectal prolapse in children (20). Rectal prolapse is a rare condition in which a part of the large intestine slips outside the anus.

In a study, almond oil could treat idiopathic pruritis (unexplained irritation in the anal region) in adult patients. The oil could treat 93% of the patients in the first trial itself, while the remaining saw complete cure after a second treatment (21).

The oil also improves bowel transit. This eventually reduces the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (4).

The fatty acids in almond seeds may also work as prebiotics. This promotes the health of the human gut bacteria (22). However, it is unclear if similar results could be expected with almond oil.

6. May Aid Diabetes Treatment

In a study, participants who had breakfast with added almond oil had lower blood sugar levels. This was both after the meal and throughout the day (23).

Almond oil works better than whole almonds in keeping postprandial blood glucose levels low (24).

7. May Treat Ear Infections

Almond oil can help remove earwax. Pouring warm almond oil in the ear can soften the earwax, making it easy to remove (25).

The oil may also work in the case of tympanic perforation (the case of a ruptured eardrum). Although more studies are required, research states that almond oil does not cause any toxicity in this regard (26).

A ruptured eardrum may also make your ear more susceptible to infections. Hence, almond oil might be a potential treatment for ear infections as well.

8. May Be Useful In Aromatherapy

Some research shows that using almond oil as part of aromatherapy massage could relieve symptoms of PMS (27). This treatment may complement conventional treatment for premenstrual syndrome.

Often, almond oil is used as a carrier oil. It is mixed with other essential oils to dilute them. This is to make them safer for the skin. The reason is that almond oil is readily absorbed by the skin, doesn’t evaporate easily, and has a mild smell.

9. May Treat Cradle Cap In Infants

There is very little research to back this. Anecdotal evidence supports the use of almond oil for treating cradle cap in infants. Cradle cap is a skin condition involving brownish-yellow scaly patches on the scalp. It is caused by excess secretion of sebum. Hydrating the scalp is key.

Some people believe that almond oil also nourishes the scalp. You can achieve this for your baby by applying a thick layer of the oil to the scalp. Gently massage it in for a minute. Use extra caution. Leave the oil to soak in for about 15 minutes. After this, you can wash the oil out with mild baby shampoo.

There is no research to support this method. But as long as your child doesn’t experience any adverse reactions, you can use the oil.

Almond oil is a worthwhile addition to your kitchen shelf. The nutrients we have seen are what constitute the oil’s nutrition profile.

Almond Milk

Since getting into the nitty-gritty of all the pros and cons of every type of milk in the market might take a while, we’re going to get into the details of almond milk – considered one of the better options for vegans. It’s easy on the stomach and comes minus the harsh and often distasteful smell of cow’s milk. Made from a blend of skinned almonds and good-quality water, almond milk can be used as a base to include certain other beneficial ingredients such as cinnamon or chia seeds. (Cinnamon is good for heart health, weight management, and blood sugar control, among other things; chia seeds also contain calcium, as well as a host of other super-powered nutrients).

Health Benefits of Almond Milk

• Fewer Calories: If you’re not buying the pre-packaged brands off the shelf, which have been fortified by additional ingredients, then fresh almond milk is one of the best milk in terms of keeping the caloric content at a low.
• Calcium and Vitamin D: Although not as much as in dairy milk, almond milk is still a decent source of calcium, and works together with Vitamin D to make sure you’re getting the best benefits for your bones.
• Vitamin E: Want younger-looking skin? Who doesn’t? Almond milk is a fantastic source of vitamin E, which contributes to better skin elasticity as well as protects the skin from the harmful elements of sun exposure.
• Low Carbohydrates: those with blood sugar concerns don’t have to be too worried about good quality almond milk (make sure it does not contain added white sugars), as the carb content is just enough for the body to convert it into the good kind of sugars that we all require for energy.
• Fiber: almonds are a source of fiber, so it helps keep the digestive system happy and healthy.
• Protein: although not as high in the protein stakes as cow’s milk, almond milk still has enough of a kick to make sure the body gets some traces of protein – but be sure to supplement this with other sources of clean dietary protein such as beans and lentils, and if a meat-eater, lean chicken breasts. Almond milk is also a source of trace amounts of potassium, magnesium, copper, and selenium, all of which contribute to better bone and body health, fewer headaches, and maintenance for healthy cells, nervous system, and gives it a bit of a youthful look. There’s a touch of copper that helps keep the blood pressure well regulated.
• Using Almond MilkIt’s just as good in cereal doesn’t absolutely need to be stored in the fridge (it does taste better if you do), and works decently well in coffee and tea. But if you like adding traditional cow’s milk to dishes such as scrambled eggs, don’t count on this as the best substitute.  Almond milk is however fantastic in healthy smoothies and great as a frozen dessert for kids and adults alike. You can substitute it for cow’s milk in all Indian desserts, and it works well for the bakers as well. It’s also the kind of drink you can imbue at any time of day, without wanting to go take a nap afterward!

 

Make Your Own Almond Milk

• Since it’s a fresh product, make sure you consume it fresh and don’t keep it beyond 2-3 days. Makes about 2 cups of almond milk:1 cup almonds
  2.5 cups water
• A pinch of cinnamon
• A drizzle of honey or other sweeteners

Method:

1. Soak the almonds overnight; the next day the skin should be easy to peel off.
2.  Now put the peeled almonds into a blender and add the water.
3. Once the mixture has been ground to something of a pulpy paste, sieve it into a container through a muslin cloth.
4. The liquid that has been sieved is your consumable almond milk. You can add your optional honey or cinnamon here to sweeten it. Store in a sealed container.

The remaining mass of almond paste in the cloth is your almond meal. This can be used as it is, added to smoothies or cereals for an extra nutritional boost. You can also spread it onto a baking tray and bake until browned, using the meal as a baking ingredient to make healthy muffins or bread.

Traditional uses

• Almond oil is helpful for treating dermatosis, burnt skin, and dry skin.
• It is also used to soften the accumulation of ear cerumen.
• It helps to restore the skin’s lipid balance.
• It is used as a lubricant, excipient, reepithelization agent, and sebum restoring in products for the treatment of sensitive skin.
• It softens skin and also prevents from loss of moisture.
• It is also used as a laxative and vaccine additive.
• It is used to treat skin disorders.
• It could lower the effects of erythema, psoriasis and also lower the chances of skin cancer.
• It lowers the scarring of wounds and stretch marks.
• It provides relief from the damaged skin which is caused due to the exposure sun.
• It helps to get rid of ugly marks by promoting blood circulation.
• Almond oil could be used on the skin and hair directly.
• The use of almond oil on lips prevents them from being chapped.
• It maintains the elasticity of the skin and makes it glowing, silky, and smooth.
• Put a few drops of almond oil into the cotton ball and wipe it on the face. It helps to remove makeup and makes the skin fresh.
• Apply almond oil to the scalp. Massage well and wash it after leaving it for 30 minutes. It helps to treat dandruff, dry scalp, and flakiness.
• It moisturizes parched and dry scalps.
• Apply this oil to the wet hair to increase the shine and gloss of the hair.
• Apply small amounts of almond oil to the ends of the hair to eliminate split ends.
• It could be used for hot oil treatment that helps to condition the hair deeply and makes it soft as well as healthy.
• 4-6 drops of sweet almond oil could be added to the smoothie, juice, and milk. Before sleep, drink it. This helps to clean bowels and is an aid for constipation.
• To provide relief from pain, massage with almond oil. It is also helpful for pains, stress, and muscle cramps.
• It is used for aromatherapy massage to provide relief from aching and tired muscles.
• It provides relief from irritation, inflammation, and itching.

How To Choose Almond Oil For Skin

• Hexane-free: To choose the right almond oil, you should check whether it is hexane-free or not. Hexane is a chemical that is used to extract oil from the seed and may cause irritation and redness. Thus, it is better to go for hexane-free and cold-pressed almond oil.
• Carrier oil: If you are getting almond oil to use for your skin, then pick the one that serves as a good carrier oil. This means you can easily mix the almond oil with any essential oil of your choice for massage or in your beauty blend.
• Pure and natural: Almond oils are generally preferred as moisturizers because they are natural. However, several brands add preservatives and additives to make them last longer. Such oils might not be suitable for sensitive skin, so it is better to choose pure sweet almond oil for your skin that is derived from cold-pressed almonds and has no harsh ingredients.
• Non-greasy: When it comes to oils, they are likely to be sticky and greasy. But pure almond oil is considered to be a quick-absorbing and non-greasy type of oil. However, it is recommended that you check the label of the product and read reviews before buying any almond oil.

If you have read our list, you might have a fair idea as to which is the right almond oil for your skin. Now, let us talk about the several ways in which you can use almond oil.

How To Use Almond Oil For Skin

• Makeup remover

Step 1: Take a small amount of almond oil and apply it to your face.

Step 2: Use cotton dipped in warm water to remove the makeup and oil from your face.

Step 3: Wash your face with a face wash.

• DIY beauty blends

Step 1: Add a few drops of almond oil in an essential oil such as lavender, rosehip, or lemon oil.

Step 2: Dampen your skin.

Step 3: Apply the mix and leave it for a few minutes.

Step 4: Rinse thoroughly with warm water.

• Moisturizer

You can directly use almond oil on your skin as a moisturizer or as a massage oil. You can also add a few drops of almond oil to your moisturizer to make it more hydrating and use it as your daily body lotion or face cream.

As already stated, almond oil offers plenty of benefits. The next segment will help you explore the many advantages of the oil when used for your skin.

How To Include Almond Oil In Your Diet

Always go for unrefined almond oil. When you do, ensure you do not use it in cooking. Unrefined oils have low smoke points, and cooking them at high temperatures can destroy the nutrients and release toxic fumes (rx).

Use unrefined almond oil more as a finishing oil. Add it to dishes once the cooking is completed. As unrefined oils have low smoke points, they are best used in dips and salad dressings.

• You can combine almond oil with apple cider vinegar and use it as a salad dressing.
• You can also drizzle some almond oil over your pasta for a dash of healthy fats.
• You can even add the oil to your other dishes to impart a delicious nutty flavor.

You may use refined almond oil for cooking. Refined almond oil has a high smoke point (rx). You can use it for searing, pan-frying, or browning.

But beware. We recommend against using refined oils for cooking. This holds true for refined almond oil as it contains high amounts of omega-6 fatty acids (rx). Studies show that refined vegetable oils high in omega-6 fatty acids can cause atherosclerosis and diabetes (rx).

There is limited evidence on the dosage of almond oil, especially when using it for medical reasons. Though some sources suggest 1 to 2 teaspoons of almond oil per dose, the data is unreliable. Hence, consult your doctor. You can get a bottle of almond oil from your nearest grocery store or supermarket. You can also purchase it online. You can also prepare almond oil in the cozy comfort of your home.

How To Make Almond Oil At Home

All you need are a blender, two cups of unroasted almonds, and one to two teaspoons of olive oil. Here’s the process:

• Blend the almonds. Start slow and increase the pace eventually.
• Once the almonds are blended into a rich and creamy paste, add a teaspoon of olive oil. Blend again.
• You can add another teaspoon of olive oil to speed up the process.
• Store the blended almonds in a container at room temperature for two weeks. This is time enough for the oil to separate from the meat.
• Drain the oil from the container into another container. You can use a sieve or strain or tip the container.

You can use this almond oil and reap all the benefits discussed above. But before you do that, here are a few things to keep in mind.

Side Effects of Almond Oil

• Anaphylaxis: Almond oil may cause allergic reactions in individuals with nut allergies. If you feel you might be sensitive, you can test ingesting half a teaspoon and wait a day to ascertain if you have an allergic attack.
• Lowering blood sugar levels: Ingesting almond oil mimics the effects of estrogen and may lead, in case of prolonged consumption, to decreasing the blood sugar levels. It should be used with caution by diabetics or patients who’re under medication for diabetes.
• Weight gain: Because almond oil has elevated levels of calories, too much use can lead to weight gain.
• Drug interactions: Almond oil may interact with supplements intended to lower cholesterol, which includes niacin, garlic and fish oil. Speak to your doctor in case you are on any such medicines.

How to Eat         

• It could be mixed to veggies, salads, and potatoes.
• It is a perfect substitute for olive oil.
• It is used fresh and is not suitable for frying purposes.

Dosing

Trials of almond dietary supplementation in adults have used 25 to 168 g of almonds per day. The AHA recommends the daily intake of nuts (28.35 to 56.7 g) as part of a healthy diet Almonds are considered a good source of tocopherol to meet the recommended daily allowance for vitamin E, now increased to 15 mg/day. There is no widely accepted standard for laetrile/amygdalin dosing due to the potential for toxicity and no evidence for efficacy.

Trials of almond dietary supplementation in adults have used 25 to 168 g of almonds per day. The American Heart Association (AHA) recommends the daily intake of nuts (28.35 to 56.7 g) as part of a healthy diet. There is no widely accepted standard for laetrile/amygdalin dosing due to the potential for toxicity and no evidence for efficacy.

Pregnancy / Lactation

Consumption of bitter almond or laetrile is not recommended in pregnant or breastfeeding women because of insufficient data and a theoretical risk of birth defects.

Cyanide has not been reported as a direct cause of birth defects in humans. Birth defects, harmful effects on the reproductive system, and skeletal abnormalities have been reported in mice fed water containing sodium cyanide and in hamsters given oral laetrile. Children born to mothers exposed to cyanide and thiocyanate during pregnancy have exhibited thyroid disease.        

It is used for hair conditioning products, skin hydrating products, oils, shampoos, moisturizers, bath oils, shaving creams and baby products.

References

Show More