Sweet almond oil is one of the most popular massage oils for several reasons. It has several therapeutic properties and is suitable for all skin types, due to its consistency. Sweet almond oil is also easy to use for massage. Although not the cheapest of the massage oils, it is not the most expensive massage oil.
Extraction
Sweet almond oil is extracted from the kernels (fruits) of the almond tree; the best quality oil is obtained through the cold pressing of the kernels. However, many almond oils are then put through a process of solvent extraction; according to Len Price in his book, "Carrier Oils for Aromatherapy and Massage." This process often results in a lower priced almond oil that is also of lower quality, due to the chemical processing involved.
Constituents
Sweet almond oil is made up of saturated fatty acids, including linoleic acid, oleic acid and palmitic acid. Almond oil also contains the Vitamin A, Vitamin E, Vitamin B1, Vitamin B2 and Vitamin B6. Maud Grieve writes in "A Modern Herbal," now published in its entirety on the Botanical website, that sweet almond oil can be substituted for olive oil because of the similarities between the two oils.
Properties
Sweet almond oil is extremely beneficial for the skin; it is nourishing and an emollient, making it particularly suitable for dry skin. Price also writes that sweet almond oil is capable of relieving the inflammation and itching of psoriasis, eczema, sunburn and dermatitis.
How to Use
Sweet almond oil is an oily, viscous substance that is pale yellow in color. It is easily absorbed by the skin and does not leave an excess layer of oil on the skin when used in massage. Use sweet almond oil in massage either on its own or combined with complementary essential oils; for maximum effect, warm the oil up slightly before using it. To achieve the full benefits of almond oil, use oil that is unrefined; refined oils do not contain the same therapeutic properties as unrefined oils.
Cautions
In general, sweet almond oil is non-sensitizing and non-irritating to the skin; however, there is a small possibility of an allergic reaction if you suffer from nut allergies. When massaging, keep the oil away from eyes and any other sensitive areas of the body. In addition, check with a qualified aromatherapist or seek medical advice, if you are unfamiliar in the use of massage oils or have concerns about a specific condition. Sweet almond oil might also go rancid quickly, so do not keep the oil for prolonged periods of inactivity.
References
- "Carrier Oils for Aromatherapy and Massage;" Len Price; 1999
- Botanical
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