Almond oil has been in used for centuries now; the oil became popular in the last century because of its numerous health, skin, and hair benefits. Because of numerous almond oil benefits, the oil has been extensively used in Mediterranean and South East Asia regions where almond tree was first domesticated. Almond oil is produced from dried almond via a process referred to as cold pressing. The process usually gives two almond derivatives the sweet and bitter almond.
However, because of the high level of toxicity the bitter almond is less common. The oil is rich in monounsaturated fatty acids, vitamin E, zinc, potassium, proteins, and other minerals therefore making it the best supplement for hair, skin, and health. Almond oil is available in sweet and bitter almonds, the bitter almond is extracted from bitter almonds, and it has glycoside amygdalin that is converted into toxic hydrocyanic acid during processing.
Majority of the almond trees growing in the wild are known to produce varying degree of the amygdalin glycoside, if ingested the acidic product can cause fatalities. Bitter almond has medicinal properties, however as it is safe for external application it is better avoided because of the high risk of poisoning. On the other hand, sweet almond is a derivative of edible almonds and it is selectively cultivated because of their sweet taste. The oil derived from sweet almonds is used for hair, skin, health, and culinary purposes. Some of the almond oil benefits include
Benefits of Almond to the Skin
1. Smooth And Flawless Skin
Almond oil has mild and hypoallergenic properties therefore it is safe even to use on baby’s skin. In most cases, the oil has been used on infants as massage oil, when rubbed on the skin the oil is fully absorbed and therefore makes it an appropriate after bath application. The absorption of the oil is enhanced when it is slightly warmed , it has a nutty smell , however you can blend it with other flavors to give you the best fragrant of your choice.
Most of the natural and synthetic skin care products mostly claim that their effectiveness is because of the vitamin E incorporated into the ingredients. Almond oil has high levels of vitamin E and therefore it has numerous antioxidant and skin replenishing properties. When you apply almond oil regularly on your skin, you protect the skin from UV radiation damage and oxidative stress therefore keeping it soft and supple.
2. It acts as a deep skin cleanser
Almond oil has a light texture and it can easily penetrate through the skin cells, therefore it is able to dislodge debris and dirt that has accumulated on the hair follicles and skin pores. This is one of the main features of almond oil that will help you alleviate the chances of developing acne and black heads. The oil has vitamin A and this is effective in reducing acne flare-ups. In addition, the oil can be used on sensitive skin and it has zero allergic reactions on the skin. It is the best choice if you want to remove makeup from tender regions of the skin such as around the eyes.
The procedure is simple, dip a ball of cotton into the oil, and apply it on the face. Thereafter allow it is to seep through for 4 minutes then gently wipe off excess oil with a fresh piece of cotton wool. In addition, you can make a natural facial scrubby mixing fine sugar and almond oil, and then apply on the face working in circles for it to remove gently the dead cells and grime. Wash off with clean water and repeat this every week for a radiant and beautiful skin.
3. Aids in removal of tan and dark circles
If you are that person with bags and dark circles under your eyes then you have found a solution in almond oil. If you apply, the oil every night before you sleep you will be able to notice the changes within ten days. Excess sun exposure is known to inflame the skin and cause redness and pain; however, almond oil will help in providing a quick relief to these patches and tan. To remove unwanted tan you can mix a few drops of honey, almond oil and lemon juice, rub the mixture on your face, and leave it for an hour. Thereafter wash off with clean water.
4. Helps to remove psoriasis and eczema
Psoriasis and eczema are some of the common problems that are caused by the body’s reaction to internal and external triggers, and in most cases, they leave the skin dry and itchy. Scratching on the affected makes the situation worse and in cases where the skin is broken it can make crusty deposits. Opening up of the skin makes it prone to bacterial and fungal infections thereby complicating the management of these chronic conditions. One of the almond oil benefits is that it acts a moisturizer, mild and hypoallergenic. Using the oil in conjunction with others such as jojoba oil will prevent moisture loss while alleviating microbes and other allergens that may worsen the condition.
5. Vital in treating skin rashes
Skin rashes are common on the nappy areas of young kids who are on diapers, in adults the skin can be inflamed because of constant rubbing against hard materials. The constant friction can cause chafed skin, this type of contact dermatitis causes burning sensation and soreness. In most cases doctors prescribe zinc-based ointments, however, almond oil is the best alternative. It is a natural substance and it will give your skin a smooth and supple feel. Moreover the procedure is simple you dip your fingers on the oil and dab on the affected regions , the oil will be gradually absorbed into the skin and you can leave as long as you want because it has no side effects.
6. Reduce fine lines, wrinkles and other signs of ageing
Smooth, soft and supple skin are some of the features of a youthful and radiant skin, however when the composition and efficacy of structural protein collagen is affected the flawless look is hampered. Collagen is a protein that is important in maintaining skin integrity and it keeps all the skin layers fine and soft. However, as we age the production of the protein reduces immensely therefore wrinkles, fine lines, and furrows begin to form on our faces.
In some cases premature ageing signs can be as a result of dehydration, tobacco smoke or excess exposure to the sun. Oxidative stress is a common feature in causing the deterioration of the collagen layer. Almond oil is rich in vitamin E, which is one of the most potent antioxidants; this can help in repairing damaged collagen layer and also accentuate the production of the protein to improve skin condition.
Health Benefits of Almond Oil
7. Improves the health of the heart
According to recent research, the shape of the food determines the part of the body that it will nourish. Almonds are known to be effective in nourishing the heart; the oil is rich in monounsaturated fatty acids, which are important in improving the condition of the heart and the blood vessels. The oleic acids are considered as the best alternative when compared to other fatty acids and glycerol. A high amount of the omega-9 fatty acid reduces the level of high-density lipoprotein and blood pressure as well. In addition, the fatty acids have been known to alleviate cholesterol therefore reducing the chances of developing heart related conditions. It is recommended that you use almond oil in salad dressings to improve the heart functioning and alleviate complex situations.
8. Improves memory and cognition
In South Eastern Asian cultures, it is a general practice to soak several almonds in water overnight and eat the almonds as well as drink the water in the morning. This is one of the main features of the oil is that it is vital in improving memory and brainpower. Research indicates that the diversity and rich components of almond oil is important improving brain and neurologic functioning.
9. Relieve muscle aches and fatigue
Relieving muscle soreness and pains is one of the main traditional uses of bitter almond oil. The almond oil can be massaged on the skin, the oil penetrates deep into the muscles because of its low molecular weight, and it rejuvenates the muscles. In aromatherapy almond oil is mainly used because of its unique properties. For best results it is recommended that you warm the almond oil on heat and use a wet thick towel dipped in hot water. Thereafter massage the area effectively and leave for a half an hour. The treatment alleviates muscle fatigue and aches by drawing the toxins out; moreover the oil has anti-inflammatory properties.
10. Metabolism
Numerous studies on almond oil indicate that the oil is beneficial in alleviating metabolic syndrome; some researchers have referred to the oil as a weapon against diabetes and obesity. The benefit of the oil is that it affects the microorganisms living in the gut; therefore the good bacteria are able to multiply and improve metabolic processes.
11. Anti-oxidant Effects
Studies conducted by American clinical nutrition indicates that almond oils have a highly saturated levels of bioavailable vitamin E or alpha-tocopherol , an increase in the intake of the oil is important in resisting the levels of LDL against oxidation. Moreover, the polyphenolic compounds have antioxidant properties, which make them the best option in fighting free radicals and other components that may damage the biological system.
Almond Oil Benefits to the Hair
12.Prevents hair loss
One of the most common phenomena that most people face in the modern world is loss of hair. Although there are normal hair loss, when the level of hair loss is higher than regrowth it causes the scalp to show signs of thinning or balding in some cases. There are numerous factors that contribute to hair loss; some may include nutritional deficiencies, environmental pollutants, stress, and hormonal imbalance among others. Deficiency in the level of calcium and magnesium ions in the system is known to cause hair loss and poor hair growth. Alopecia is a characteristic of low levels of zinc in the system.
However almond oil is rich in both minerals and this will prevent thinning and hair loss. You are required to rub it gently on the scalp and leave it for a few hours for it to penetrate through, use regularly for the best results.
13. It gives long shiny hair
It is not the scalp only that can benefit with the use of almond oil, the glands of the scalp produces sebum a product which is known to give the hair a natural protective coating. However, the hair may be too dry and brittle because of frequent use of shampoos and this result in breakages of the hair. However, you can restore the protective oil by applying almond oil after washing the hair. Leave it for a half an hour and occasionally comb with a wide toothed comb, this is important in separating the different strands. The treatment gives the hair a nice sheen, preventing breakage and it makes it shine naturally.
The almond oil contains high concentration of vitamin B, A, and E, all which helps in adding shine to dull hair. In addition, the fatty acids omega 3, 6, and 9 reflects the damaging UV rays therefore preventing dullness and dryness.
14.Treats and prevents dandruff
Almond oil is a natural sealant and it is can be used to lock in the moisture on wet hair. You can mix the oil with gooseberry to nourish and give the root hairs essential foods to enhance hair growth and shine. Almond oil is lighter than other oils therefore it is penetrates into the scalp easily and protects the base of the hair follicles preventing dandruff and giving the hair a smooth shiny finish.
15. Stimulates growth of new hair
Massaging almond oil on the scalp can help in rejuvenating the hair follicles to improve growth and this reduces hair loss. The fatty acids and minerals penetrate deep into the scalp and this aids in growth of new hair. In addition, the vitamins, zinc, copper, and other minerals are important in strengthening the hair against breakage and other damages.
16. Promotes healthy nails
If you are a person with thin nails that chip off regularly then this is an indication that there is mineral deficiency. What you require is almond oil treatment; the oil is rich in zinc which is a causative agent of white spots and brittle nails. The oil has a high concentration of vitamin B complex and iron therefore it improves the health of the nails. You can apply a drop of warm oil and rub on the cuticle, doing this everyday will result in thicker and smoother nails.
Conclusion
In summary, there are many almond oil benefits, however it is important to note that the product is natural and it has no side effects unlike commercially produced products. Make it a habit using almond oil in various areas and realize the benefits of the natural product.
