Pure sweet almond oil is an unrefined oil that contains all of the nutrients of almonds--Vitamins E and B12 and magnesium, calcium and phosphorous. These nutrients, combined with the almond's natural monounsaturated fats, nourish the body both inside and out. Although sweet almond oil is generally used topically to combat hair and skin irritants, it can also be used internally to contest a wide array of serious health concerns, states the U.S. National Library of Medicine.
Identification
Sweet almond oil is derived from the Prunus amygdalus dulcis tree, or sweet almond tree, and belongs to the rose or Rosaceae family, which includes the cherry, peach, plum and apricot. Sweet almonds were used in ancient Hindu body cleansing rituals and sweet almond oil is used today in lipsticks, skin care products, sunscreens and bath oil products. In 2002, the CIR or Cosmetic Ingredient Review Expert Panel, evaluated sweet oil's safety for topical application and concluded that sweet almond oil was indeed safe for external human use.
Benefits
Sweet almond oil lubricates the skin surface and gives the skin a smooth, soft appearance. Sweet almond oil also gives hair shine and luster when used in shampoo, as it acts as an emulsifier, an agent that binds oil and water together. Because it is not oily, the body absorbs sweet almond oil quickly, which makes it able to moisturize skin, relieve itching due to dry skin and soothe dry lips.
Considerations
Although sweet almond oil is used in a variety of over-the-counter skin care products, it is also widely used to make numerous at-home beauty treatments. For example, pure sweet almond oil is used on the skin to treat rashes, skin inflammation and irritation, lighten dark under eye circles and give skin a healthy glow. Pure sweet almond oil is also used as a folk remedy to reverse hair loss.
Potential
Although sweet almond oil is usually used to treat skin conditions, a study led by Dianne A. Hyson of the University of California's Department of Nutrition noted that sweet almond oil may have also have notable internal benefits. In the study, 22 healthy women and men replaced half of their dietary fat with either almond oil or whole almonds. The study found that all of the participants, those who ate the almond oil and those who ate the whole almonds, experienced a decline in cholesterol levels, which researchers believe was the direct result of the oil in the almonds.
Warning
Sweet almond oil may lower blood sugar levels, according to the U.S. National Library of Medicine. Therefore, people who use prescription medications, supplements or herbs to lower blood sugar should consult with their doctor before ingesting sweet almond oil or applying it topically to skin or hair.
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