Almond oil has been used as a beauty product for centuries by the ancient Greeks, who recognized the power from the oil pressed from almonds. Almond oil can also be used medicinally for certain ailments, and is completely safe to ingest. It has a clear color, and is almost odorless, but possesses a sweet but bland taste. A bottle of almond oil in your medicine cabinet or makeup bag can have many applications on your body and around the house.
Laxative
MedlinePlus.com, a division of the United States National Library of Medicine recommends the use of almond oil as a gentle laxative for those having digestive problems. A dose of 30 milliliters of almond oil taken by mouth can effectively relieve constipation. You can mix it into drinks or other foods if you don't prefer the mild taste of almond oil.
Skin
Almond oil is extremely hydrating and moisturizing, and acts as a good natural moisturizer for the face. Keep in mind that it is a very rich oil, so a little goes a long way. You can dab a small amount around your eyes each night to hydrate and prevent wrinkles, or you can use it on your lips as a powerful moisturizer to soothe chapped lips.
Hair
Almond oil, because of its rich and moisturizing properties that include oleic and linoleic essential fatty acids, can be used on hair for rich conditioning. After drying and styling your hair, use a very small amount of almond oil on your fingertips to smooth through the dry ends of your hair, to give them a soft and supple appearance.
Labor
Trusted labor and delivery tome, "The Birth Book," by Martha Sears, expounds upon the importance of perineal massage before the head crowns, to prevent tearing and promote stretching while in labor. Almond oil is ideal for perineal massage, and is very soothing to the body while in labor. Your partner can use two fingers dipped in almond oil to promote stretching so that you can avoid an episiotomy.
Nails
Brittle nails and cuticles benefit from almond oil. The next time you give yourself a manicure, rub some almond oil down into the cuticles to soothe ragged, dry cuticles, and dry nails that crack, chip and peel easily.
Massage Oil
Almond oil is a good alternative for massage oil because it retains the same moisturizing properties that a typical massage oil would have, but is a more natural choice. Warmed in the microwave, the fatty acids in almond oil can soothe tired and aching muscles.
Wounds
If you're stuck without an antibacterial cleaner for a wound, use almond oil as a substitute. It has antimicrobial properties that make it an excellent but gentle disinfectant for open wounds. Cleaner wounds means a reduced incidence of infection and faster healing, so it would be a good choice to put a bottle of almond oil into your first aid kit for emergencies.
References
- Almonds
- Sweet almond (Prunus amygdalus dulcis)
- The Birth Book: everything you need to know to have a safe and satisfying birth: Martha Sears, 1994
Member Comments