What Are The Benefits Of Eating Almond Oil?

Almond oil is cold pressed and extracted primarily from Jordan almonds. The two main varieties of almond oil are sweet almond oil and bitter almond oil. Bitter almond oil is toxic, while sweet almond oil is widely used as an emollient to hydrate the skin. It is also used as a cooking oil, and as a carrier oil in aromatherapy. In addition to topical uses and benefits, almond oil has many benefits when taken internally. Consult with your health care provider before taking almond oil, as allergies to almonds do exist.

Vitamins And Antioxidants

Almond oil contains B vitamins, particularly B1, B2 and B6. B vitamins are important for energy production and the proper creation and functioning of nerve cells. They are water soluble vitamins, which means they are excreted regularly through urination and must be replaced. Almond oil also contains fat soluble vitamins, mainly vitamin A and E. Vitamin A promotes healthy vision and skin, as well as healthy soft tissue and mucous membranes. Vitamin E protects cell membranes and promotes a healthy circulatory system. Vitamin A and Vitamin E are antioxidants. Antioxidants protect cells from damage from free radicals. According to The National Institutes Of Health, free radicals are believed to contribute to the progression of several diseases, and to the overall aging process.

Eseential Fatty Acids

Omega-6 and omega-9 fatty acids are essential fatty acids contained in almond oil. According to The University Of Maryland Medical Center, omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids work together to produce eicosanoids, which have a positive anti inflammatory effect within the body. Omega-6 fatty acids promote healthy skin, nails and hair. They also help to bring about hormonal balance, and help with the pain of pre-menstrual syndrome. Omega-9 fatty acid, also known as oleic acid, helps to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and stroke.

Miscellaneous

Almond oil has a positive effect on digestion and elimination. According to Deepak Chopra, M.D., taking a teaspoon of almond oil in the morning, for up to a month, can help alleviate severe constipation. The almond oil helps to soften and lubricate the stool, states Chopra. According to the National Institutes Of Health, almond oil can relieve the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome and improve bowel transit. Almond oil may have the ability to lower bad cholesterol, too. In one study, 26 men and women on a low saturated fat, low cholesterol and low fiber diet, added 100 mg of almonds and almond oil to their daily diet for nine weeks. After the nine weeks, the participants experienced a decrease in "bad"(LDL) cholesterol, with no change in "good"(HDL) cholesterol.