Discover the Power of Sweet Almond Oil: 12 Benefits for Skin, Hair, and Overall Health

Sweet Almond are displayed in a wooden bowl on a wooden table

Common Name: Sweet Almond, Sweet Almond Oil

Scientific Name: Prunus amygdalus var. dulcis (Borkh. ex DC.) Koehne

History and Origin

The almond tree is a species that belongs to the Prunus genus and the Rosaceae family. The almond kernel has been used as a nutrient-dense food for mankind.

Apparently, it originated from one or more wild species that evolved in the deserts and mountain slopes of central and southwestern Asia. Almonds were among the first plants to be domesticated. The earliest archaeological evidence suggests that this occurred in Jordan. Almonds are the most important nut in the world in terms of commercial production. ⁽¹⁾

Almonds are considered worldwide to be the most pleasant and consumed tree nut, with applications in the food, cosmetic, and pharmaceutical industries. ⁽²⁾ Likewise, the demand for almond oil is on the rise globally due to the oil’s health benefits and high nutritional value. The rise in demand for aromatherapy products and the growing use of almond oil in cosmetic formulations, which is due to an increase in preferences for natural ingredients, are the primary factors that drive the global almond oil market. ⁽¹⁾

The production of almonds has increased dramatically globally during the last ten years, according to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). ⁽²⁾ The United States, Spain, and Australia are the top producers, followed by Iran, Morocco, Italy, Syria, Turkey, and Tunisia. ⁽¹⁾

Wet climates are not suitable for growing almonds because of their sensitivity to moisture. This tree prefers a Mediterranean climate, and it is often cultivated in the temperate zone. ⁽³⁾ Almond is grown in the whole Mediterranean region, in California, in northwest Mexico, in a small part of Australia, and in other areas around the world. ⁽¹⁾

Sweet Almond Plant Structure

Almonds are deciduous trees or shrubs of varying size and shape ⁽²⁾with mildly red-tinged branches, thorny in their wild form but not in their cultivated form. The leaves are glabrous, oblong-lanceolate-acuminate or serrate, tough, glossy, and dark green. The flowers are pale pink or white. The ripe fruit is the medicinal part. The fruit is oblong-ovoid, compressed, gray-green, and velvety-downy. The nut shell is hard and compressed. The seed is cinnamon brown and 2 cm long by 1.2 to 1.5 cm wide. ⁽⁴⁾

Almond has considerable genetic variability around the world. Based on taste, two major varieties were identified: the bitter almond (“amara” variety) and the sweet almond (“dulcis” variety). Almonds are characterized as sweet or bitter, depending on the amount of amygdalin in the kernel. ⁽²⁾ The fixed sweet almond oil comes exclusively from edible almonds (Prunus amygdalus var. dulcis). Sweet almond oil is a pale-yellow liquid with a nutty taste.

Fresh sweet almond oil, extracted using pressing, shows low contents of free fatty acids, peroxides, and phosphatides, and therefore it can be consumed directly and used for culinary purposes (mainly as a salad dressing and vegetable dips) without refining as a 100% virgin product. ⁽¹⁾

What Are Sweet Almond Oil Side Effects?

- When taken by mouth: Sweet almonds are often ingested orally as food. To determine whether sweet almonds are safe to use as medication, there is insufficient trustworthy information available. ⁽²¹⁾

- When applied to the skin: Sweet almond oil is suitable and safe for any skin type. ⁽¹⁾If you have acne-prone skin, check with your healthcare provider before applying this oil directly to your face.⁽²²⁾

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS): Consuming excessive quantities of sweet almond oil may worsen diarrhea and pain in patients with IBS.⁽²¹⁾

- Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Please discuss the benefits and risks with your healthcare provider before taking sweet almond oil. ⁽²³⁾

- Diabetes: Some people may have a decrease in blood sugar after eating sweet almonds. Keep an eye out for symptoms of hypoglycemia, use sweet almonds, and closely check your blood sugar if you have diabetes.

- Surgery: In some cases, sweet almonds may reduce blood sugar. Theoretically, blood sugar regulation both during and after surgery may be impacted by sweet almonds. At least two weeks before a planned operation, stop consuming sweet almonds. ⁽²⁴⁾

- Allergy to almond oil: The oral and topical use of sweet almond oil is generally safe for people. Anyone who has a severe nut allergy should not use the oil topically (on their hair and skin) or orally because it may cause a serious allergic response. ⁽²⁴⁾

Generally, every person may be allergic to certain herbs and spices. This sensitivity must first be diagnosed by the person and, secondarily, by the physician. However, these allergic reactions do not cause chronic or acute side effects, and after identifying the allergenic plant and removing it from the diet, allergy-related complications will be eliminated. No company or product can be aware of the allergic reactions of different bodies in advance. The body's incompatibility with one or more specific herbs rarely occurs, but consumers may encounter it anyway.

Sweet Almond Oil Health Benefits

1. Relieving Constipation

In 2022, the effects of abdominal massage and oral administration of sweet almond oil on constipation were studied in elderly people.

For two weeks, the oral consumption group received 9 ml of sweet almond oil orally every twelve hours (i.e., 18 ml per day). There were seven sessions conducted every other day. Patients in the abdominal massage group received 15 minutes of abdominal massage with 18 ml of sweet almond oil at specific times (8–11 a.m.). Over the course of two weeks, seven sessions, one every other day, were conducted to accomplish this.

The results of this study showed that abdominal massage with sweet almond oil and its oral administration are effective in treating constipation and improving the quality of life among elderly individuals. ⁽⁵⁾

Also, according to a 2019 study on the constipation model of mice, the oral administration of sweet almond oil has laxative activity. ⁽⁶⁾ This noninvasive, simple, and affordable approach is advised to be used to reduce constipation because of its high prevalence and detrimental consequences on quality of life and other health indicators.⁽⁵⁾

2. Preventing Skin Aging and Repairing Damaged Skin

The sweet almond oil has moisturizing, softening, anti-inflammatory, and anti-aging properties ⁽⁷⁾ and has significant levels of vitamins E and K, which maintain elasticity and aid in skin regeneration ⁽¹⁾, keeping the skin smooth and supple ⁽⁷⁾. For these reasons, the oil is often used in skin and hair care products.

Since it is suitable for all skin types and is simple to absorb by the skin, ⁽⁷⁾ almond oil is one of the most widely used oils in aromatherapy and massage therapy. ⁽¹⁾

Sweet almond oil reduces skin damage associated with exposure to UV radiation.The results of a study on mice showed that topical almond oil could prevent the UV-induced structural damage, and it was also shown to be helpful in slowing down the photoaging process. ^{(2, 8)}

Sweet almond oil prevents the itching of striae and their progression during pregnancy. The results of a study on nulliparous women showed that topical application of sweet almond oil during pregnancy prevents the spread of striae on the surface of the abdomen and relieves the itching and erythema. ⁽⁹⁾

This very nutritious oil is particularly good at treating dry, brittle nails. ⁽¹⁰⁾

3. Strengthening Hair

Due to its light texture and ease of penetration deep into the skin, sweet almond oil helps to unclog hair follicles and clear the scalp. It is also a gentle moisturizer and conditioner for hair, repairing damaged and dry hair and restoring it to its original luster and shine. ⁽⁷⁾

4. Anti-cancer

According to a 2022 study, consumption of sweet almond oil can prevent cancer. This oil can significantly reduce new blood vessel growth in tumors; thus, it is useful for inhibiting tumor growth and metastasis, too. ⁽¹¹⁾

In addition, several studies have proven that consumption of sweet almond oil can reduce colon cancer risk. ^{(2, 12)}

It is interesting to note that cancer patients' quality of life is significantly improved by almond oil massage. Cancer patients who use sweet almond oil aromatherapy report feeling less depressed, anxious, stressed, and fatigued, as well as getting better sleep. ⁽²⁾

5. Increasing Fertility

Sweet almond oil showed protection against sperm damage. ⁽²⁾ According to a 2015 study on diabetic rats, adding sweet almond oil to the diet is beneficial for raising the percentage of live, motile, healthy morphology, and count of sperm. ⁽¹³⁾ The antioxidant content of the sweet almond oil is thought to be the cause of this effect. ⁽²⁾

6. Reducing Appetite

According to the results of a 2019 study, sweet almond supplementation with an exercise training program can reduce appetite and help overweight women lose weight. Also, the researchers suggested that the presence of fatty acids, like linoleic acid (omega-6) in the almond and its oil, reduces the absorption and synthesis of fat. ⁽¹⁴⁾

7. Antidepressant Properties

In 2018, the anti-depressant effect of oral administration of sweet almond oil, along with the inhalation of lavender essential oil, for alleviating depression was studied in rats. Based on the results, although either consumption of sweet almond oil or lavender essential oil aromatherapy had an antidepressant impact, the combined treatment (lavender oil inhalation and almond oil application) resulted in an additive effect. This implies that a treatment with sweet almond oil, inhalation of lavender essential oil, or a combination of both may improve the hippocampus area of the brain's functionality. ⁽¹²⁾

8. Regulating Blood Fat Levels

The fatty acid composition of almond oil has dietary importance. Although almonds contain high amounts of fat, the oil does not contribute to cholesterol formation in humans since monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs and PUFAs) are abundant in almond oil that lower blood levels of total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol (bad cholesterol). ⁽⁷⁾

A 2002 study showed that sweet almond oil consumption lowered both total and LDL cholesterol levels while increasing HDL cholesterol (good cholesterol) too. ⁽¹⁵⁾

9. Regulating Blood Glucose Levels

In a 2019 study, the effect of co-ingestion of sweet almond oil with a high-carbohydrate meal on controlling postprandial glycaemia was evaluated in mice. The results showed that sweet almond oil had a postprandial glycaemia-lowering effect without changing the insulin level.

Sweet almond oil in the carbohydrate meal could slow gastric emptying because of its high energy content and medium viscosity, and the researchers suggested that its glycaemia-lowering effect could relate to the gastric emptying rate. ⁽¹⁶⁾

In addition, a 2011 study on impaired glucose-tolerant people found that participants who consumed almond oil with their breakfast meal had lower blood sugar levels, both after the meal and throughout the day, compared to participants who did not. ^{(7, 17)}

10. Improving Liver Function

In a 2011 study, the hepatoprotective effects of sweet almond oil against acute liver injury were evaluated in rats. It was demonstrated that sweet almond oil is useful for the treatment and prevention of liver damage and chemical-induced hepatotoxicity.

According to the researchers, the hepatoprotective effects of almond oil may be due to its unsaturated fatty acids, tocopherols, and phenolic compounds. The suppression of lipid peroxidation pathways and the increased activity of antioxidant enzymes are two of the protective strategies. ⁽¹⁸⁾

11. Improving Cardiovascular System Function

Consuming sweet almond oil may protect against cardiovascular disease, at least in part, by modifying blood lipid levels, according to all human clinical research. Sweet almond oil supplementation significantly reduces the plasma levels of total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and triglycerides as well as significantly increases HDL cholesterol levels, which improve dyslipidemia and prevent cardiovascular disease. ⁽²⁾

12. Increasing Antioxidant Activity

Almond is one of the best sources among other nuts in terms of vitamin E, which is a soluble lipid antioxidant. ⁽¹⁹⁾ According to a 2019 study, sweet almond oil possesses antioxidant properties, and researchers recommend its use as a dietary antioxidant. ⁽²⁰⁾

Nutritional Information

The primary nutritional components of almonds are lipids, which consist of a variety of fatty acids, including SFAs, MUFAs, and PUFAs, as well as oil-soluble substances, including squalene, phytosterols, tocopherols, and tocotrienols. ⁽²⁾

Sweet Almond Oil Daily Dosage

Take one to two tablespoons (15 to 30 ml) per day directly or add it to a food, salad, or beverage.

Bioactive Compounds

Fatty acids: Only 8% of the fatty acids in almond oil are saturated fats (palmitic acid and stearic acid ⁽²⁵⁾), while it is high in monounsaturated fats. ⁽¹⁾ Oleic acid (omega-9) and linoleic acid (omega-6) are the most important unsaturated fatty acids found in almond oil. ⁽⁷⁾

* Oleic acid, which makes up between 50 and 70 percent of the total fatty acid content of almond oil, is the main fatty acid. ⁽¹⁾

Phytosterols: Almond oil was found to have an important amount of phytosterol content. β-sitosterol is identified as the major phytosterol in almond oil. ⁽²⁾

Tocopherols and tocotrienols:Vegetable oils are the major sources of vitamin E, which includes tocopherols (α-, β-, γ-, and δ-tocopherol) and tocotrienols (α-, β-, γ-, and δ-tocotrienols)—that also have antioxidant properties. ⁽²⁾ Sweet almond oil contains large amounts of vitamin E, ⁽¹⁾ especially α-tocopherol, which is the most biologically active form of vitamin E. ⁽⁷⁾

Best Time to Consume

Basically, you can consume sweet almond oil any time of the day. The best time depends on why you are using the oil. For example:

- To control blood sugar levels: According to a study, consuming a breakfast with added sweet almond oil had lower blood sugar levels both after the meal and throughout the day. ⁽⁷⁾

- To relieve scalp itching and flaking: Massage sweet almond oil into your scalp and let it sit for at least an hour before a bath. ⁽²⁶⁾

- To strengthen your hair: Apply sweet almond oil to your hair a few hours before you wash it and let it sit on your scalp. ⁽²⁷⁾

- For constipation: Take sweet almond oil with moderately warm milk at bedtime.

Possible Drug Interactions

Medications for Diabetes (Antidiabetes Drugs): Sweet almonds may help some individuals reduce their levels of blood sugar. Additionally, blood sugar levels can be lowered using diabetes medication. Taking sweet almonds with diabetic medication may cause your blood sugar to drop dangerously low. Pay close attention to your blood sugar levels. You may need to change the dose of your diabetes medication. Among the medications used to treat diabetes are glimepiride (Amaryl), insulin, rosiglitazone (Avandia), glyburide (DiaBeta, Glynase PresTab, Micronase), glipizide (Glucotrol), tolbutamide (Orinase), pioglitazone (Actos), and others. ⁽²⁴⁾

Traditional Use

Almond is used as an emollient, lithontryptic, demulcent, diuretic, carminative, astringent, laxative, and tonic in traditional medicine. Almond is a traditional cure for ulcers and heartburn.

The kernels are added to the diet to prevent peptic ulcers. ⁽³⁾

The ancient Greek doctors Hippocrates and Galen described almonds as "hot" and noted their "heating," "cleansing," "nourishing,” and “strengthening mental function” properties. ⁽¹⁾

Sweet almond oil is used to flavor baked foods and perfumes. ⁽³⁾

Also, the oil had been used traditionally to treat dry skin conditions such as psoriasis and eczema. ⁽²⁸⁾ The ancient Romans used sweet almond oil extensively in skincare products. Sweet almond oil was also embraced as a beautifier in Europe as early as the 16th century. ⁽³⁾ Massage therapists have been using this oil, which many believe to be an excellent emollient, to lubricate the skin during a massage session. ⁽²⁸⁾

Some Questions about Sweet Almond Oil

Is it OK to eat almond oil?

Yes. According to scientific investigations, incorporating sweet almond oil into one's diet has multifaceted benefits, including alleviating constipation, promoting weight loss, suppressing appetite, addressing depression, regulating blood lipids, lowering bad cholesterol (LDL) levels, preventing cardiovascular diseases, controlling blood glucose levels in diabetics, treating and preventing liver damage, detoxifying the liver, lowering the risk of cancer, and helping prevent tumor growth and metastasis to other parts of the body.

Is almond oil good for the skin?

1. It is used in the creation of cosmetic and hygiene products for moisturizing and cleansing purposes. This oil absorbs quickly into the skin and is ideal for all skin types.

2. It protects the skin from damage caused by the ultraviolet rays of sunlight.

3. It reduces the expansion of skin stretch marks during pregnancy and relieves itching in these areas.

4. It keeps the skin hydrated. It has traditionally been used to treat skin disorders like psoriasis and eczema.

5. It is a good source of vitamin E, which is known for its antioxidant properties. Antioxidants can help protect the skin from oxidative stress and damage caused by free radicals.

6. This incredibly nourishing oil is great for treating dry and brittle nails.

To see the results of enhancing blood circulation, skin hydration, and protecting the skin from environmental damage, it is recommended to incorporate sweet almond oil into your daily skincare routine for at least several weeks!

Can I use almond oil on my face? How to use almond oil for face?

Yes. Almond oil is widely utilized in the production of face creams, body lotions, hair oils, and other cosmetic products for moisturizing and cleansing.

Begin by washing your hands with soap and water. Then, wash your face with your daily cleanser. Gently massage a small amount of sweet almond oil into your face and the area under your eyes until it has completely absorbed into your skin. The massage helps increase blood circulation.

Is almond oil for face anti-aging?

Sweet almond oil contains vitamin E, a fat-soluble antioxidant that may help protect the skin from free radical-induced oxidative stress. This oxidative stress is one of the factors that contribute to aging skin.

Is almond oil good for face overnight?

Here are some potential advantages of using almond oil on the face overnight:

- Moisturizing and hydrating skin;

- Antioxidant properties and protecting the skin from oxidative stress and environmental damage; - Anti-inflammatory properties and soothing irritated or inflamed skin;

- Improving skin tone and giving it a healthier appearance;

- Reducing the appearance of dark circles and puffiness around the eyes.

Instructions for using almond oil on your face overnight:

1. First, clean your face to allow better absorption.

2. Apply a small amount of almond oil (a few drops) and gently massage.

3. Leave it overnight.

Note:

- You can use it alone or mix it with your regular nighttime moisturizer.

- It's essential to note that individual skin reactions may differ, and what is effective for one person might not be for another.

- It's recommended to perform a patch test before applying almond oil to your face overnight to ensure you don't have any adverse reactions.

Can almond oil whiten skin or remove dark spots?

Some people use almond oil to help improve their skin tone and complexion. It's important to note that skin color is a natural and diverse characteristic influenced by genetics, melanin production, and environmental factors. Almond oil may not directly whiten the skin, but it can contribute to overall skin health.

Consistency is key. If you choose to use sweet almond oil, incorporate it into your skincare routine regularly. However, keep in mind that everyone's skin is different, and results may vary.

Does almond oil help hair growth?

Almond Oil Benefits for Hair: Almond oil, renowned for its lightweight texture, readily penetrates the skin, effectively eliminating accumulated impurities in hair follicles. It acts as a gentle conditioner and moisturizer for the hair; it not only repairs damaged and dry hair but also restores vitality and shine to the hair.

Is almond oil good for a man?

Ingesting sweet almond oil has been shown to have beneficial impacts on sperm, such as increasing sperm count, increasing the percentages of live sperm, sperm motility, and healthy sperm. These findings suggest that sweet almond oil may play a role in enhancing male fertility.

Is almond oil good for diabetic?

According to studies, incorporating sweet almond oil into a carbohydrate-rich meal doesn't impact insulin levels but effectively lowers postprandial blood glucose levels. Moreover, individuals with impaired glucose tolerance (a pre-diabetic condition) who include sweet almond oil in their breakfast experience reduced blood glucose levels after the meal and throughout the day compared to those not following this regimen.

Is almond oil safe for massage? Can I use almond oil to massage my baby?

Massage therapists commonly utilize sweet almond oil during massage sessions to lubricate and soften the skin. Also, pure and natural sweet almond oil is often considered safe for use in baby massage. Here are some tips for using sweet almond oil for baby massage:

1. Choose a high-quality oil;

2. Before using sweet almond oil, perform a patch test.

3. Avoid applying sweet almond oil to sensitive areas, including areas around the eyes and genital areas, and around any cuts, rashes, or irritated skin.

4. Always consult with your pediatrician before introducing any new products to your baby's skincare routine, especially if your baby has sensitive skin or any existing skin conditions.

Is almond oil best for dark circles?

Almond oil may aid in reducing puffiness and illuminating dark circles under your eyes. Its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties are responsible for this. Additionally, vitamin K and E in almond oil help to keep the skin under your eyes smooth. The discoloration may also be caused by dilated blood vessels, which these natural components may help constrict.⁽²⁹⁾