Sweet Almond Oil

Sweet almond oil is extracted from the fruit of the sweet almond tree, by a cold pressing technique. This tree bears white blossoms and green-colored fruits that look like apricots. The extracted oil is clear in appearance, and has a very mild, sweet fragrance.

It is cheaper than other essential oils, and is rich in nutrients such as vitamins A, B1, B2, B6, and E. It is non-greasy and light, and has been put to a variety of uses with amazing benefits.

The use of this oil transcends the basic skin and hair treatments, and it also finds its place as an ingredient in a variety of recipes. Take a look at the different uses and benefits it provides in each aspect.

Oil from sweet almonds is used in aromatherapy as part of the massage treatment. Usually, it is used as a carrier, to which other essential oils such as lavender, sandalwood, or eucalyptus are added.

• It is less greasy, and is easily absorbed by the skin.
• It also tends to produce a warming and soothing effect on the skin.

• The warming effect works to relieve joint and muscle pain.
• This oil helps to cure the irritation and itching caused by eczema and psoriasis.
• A massage with it, whether used on its own or combined with other essential oils, not only evokes a relaxed stated of mind, but also has medicinal effects on the body.

On the face and the body, sweet almond oil makes for a good moisturizer for all skin types, simply because it is easily absorbed.

• This oil helps treat dry and chapped skin. The application of a thin layer is helpful for chapped lips.

• Some people have benefited from the use of this oil for skin affected by acne. Regular application also prevents the recurrence of acne.
• It is even suitable as a natural makeup remover.
• When used around the eyes and on the face, its vitamin-rich content helps eliminate dark circles, and delays the aging process by preventing wrinkles and dark spots.

It is as effective and beneficial for the hair, as it is for the skin.

• When massaged into the scalp and left on overnight, it makes for a great, nourishing, deep conditioner.
• A regular scalp massage, with this oil, also takes care of dandruff.

• A tablespoon of this oil can be added to your regular conditioner to eliminate dry hair.
• Just applying a few drops of this oil on the hair, right up to the tips, will keep it looking silky throughout the day.

Apart from all the other uses, the nutty flavor of sweet almond oil also tingles the taste buds.

• It makes a great ingredient for a salad dressing. You can make one by combining some of it with Dijon mustard, vinegar, and maple syrup, and add it to your choice of vegetables.

• In Italy, sweet almonds are used to make almond macaroons or amaretti, a famous Italian dessert.
• The oil is also used to add flavor to a variety of other desserts such as cakes and pastries.
• The ingestion of this oil has been found beneficial for those suffering from heartburn and constipation. It is even used to treat coughs and colds.

If you suffer from an allergy to nuts, it is advisable not to use sweet almonds for any purpose whatsoever. Even those with diabetes should avoid them, as they have properties that may lower blood sugar to unnatural levels.

The oil may go rancid easily, and should, therefore, be stored in a cool, dark place. Its shelf life is further increased when combined with other stable oils such as jojoba oil or wheat-germ oil.

First check your sensitivity by applying a very small amount of sweet almond oil on a patch of skin. If there is no allergic reaction, then it is a green signal for you to use this oil for all the benefits it provides.