A drupe, not a true nut, the domestic almond is the kernel found in the sweet almond tree's green, apricot-like fruit. Cold pressing these kernels results in sweet almond oil. One of the more versatile plant oils, sweet almond oil can both keep you healthy, soften your skin and enhance your cooking. This oil may reduce blood sugar, so diabetics should use it with caution. Note that bitter almond oil, while related, is toxic.
Skin Care
Almond oil is high vitamin E and is able to penetrate the skin without leaving a greasy or sticky residue, making it popular in skin care. Apply pure almond oil as a moisturizer. For enhanced skin care, blend skin-nourishing or aromatic essential oils like sandalwood into a base of almond oil to improve absorption rate and reduce risk of skin irritation that can happen when using pure essential oil.
Lowering Cholestrol
Consuming oily nuts like walnuts and pistachios appears to improve cholesterol levels and lower risk of cardiovascular disease. Eating oil from almonds shows similar benefits. Study participants who replaced half their usual fat intake with almonds or almond oil experienced a 6 percent decrease in their LDL cholesterol levels, reported a study published in the April 2002 issue of "The Journal of Nutrition.
Better Massages
Almond oil is one of the best choices for massage oil, note experts from the Southwest Institute of Healing Arts. It lubricates the skin without excessive greasiness, allowing the masseur's hands to move easily. The vitamin E in this oil nourishes the skin, while the pleasant fragrance promotes relaxation.
More Flavorful Cooking
Just 1 tbsp. of this healthy food oil contains around 5 mg of vitamin E, more than 35 percent of the Recommended Daily Allowance. Add almond oil to pastries and desserts to impart a delicate nutty flavor and aroma. For a change, substitute almond oil for olive oil in breads, salads or other dishes.
References
- Vanderbilt University: Aromatherapy
- "The Journal of Nutrition"; Almonds and Almond Oil Have Similar Effects on Plasma Lipids and LDL Oxidation in Healthy Men and Women; Hyson D, et al.; April 2002
- Southwest Institute of Healing Arts: Continuing Education Courses
- Ohio State University: Vitamin E
- Bitesize Cooking: Almond Oil
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