Five Suprising Facts About Sweet Almond Oil

Sweet almond oil has been used for centuries as a skin and hair conditioner. Its use was documented by the ancient Greeks and Egyptians who considered it an essential part of their beauty rituals. It was also used in early medicinal preparations and contributes too many of today’s tastiest desserts. Sweet almond oil comes from the plant which blooms beautiful white flowers and produces sweet almonds. Their kernel contains this essential oil which offers these five surprising health and beauty benefits.

1. Aromatherapy
Among the most popular carrier oils used for Aromatherapy, sweet almond oil is a favorite for massage. It is very light and mixes well with heavier scented oils such as lavender, jasmine, and sandalwood. Sweet almond oil is easily absorbed into the skin and is an effective emollient which leaves skin soft and glowing. In India it is widely used for baby massage because it has almost no scent and is believed to have a calming effect.

2. Alternative Medicine
Sweet almond oil was used in early medicine to treat dry, itchy skin because it has properties which boost immunity and are anti-inflammatory. Alternative medicine practitioners continue to use it topically for psoriasis, eczema, dermatitis, sunburn and to relieve strained muscles. Up until the 20th century, a spoonful of sweet almond oil was ingested to help physical maladies relating to the bladder and kidneys. It is still considered soothing to the digestive system and may even help reduce cholesterol.

3. Anti-Aging
Sweet almond oil is full of mono and polyunsaturated fatty acids. It is rich in skin-friendly vitamins A, B1, B2, B6, D, and E and contains the essential minerals magnesium and calcium. Many women consider it as an essential part of a natural, anti-aging skincare regimen because it nourishes their complexion and gives it a healthy radiance. Sweet almond oil has been shown to lighten under-eye circles, while hydrating and softening lines around the eyes. It can also elevate signs of environment stress on the skin and diminish the appearance of wrinkles emphasized by surface dryness.

4. Skin Moisturizer
Sweet almond oil mimics the natural human sebum and is deeply absorbed into the skin. Its’ clear, pure moisture leaves skin soft and restores youthful tone and suppleness. Sweet almond oil is well-tolerated by all skin types, including sensitive skin. After shaving, it prevents a man’s face from becoming irritated and beautifully conditions a woman’s legs. During warmer months, women especially enjoy rubbing sweet almond oil on their shoulders and legs where it leaves a light and pretty sheen.

5. Hair and Scalp Conditioner
A few drops of sweet almond oil massaged gently into the head will help moisturize dry scalp, soothe irritation, and restore balance. When rubbed into dry, stressed hair it adds luster and natural conditioning. Sweet almond oil smoothes the hair cuticle and gives tresses a soft and polished appearance. Its use has been a timeless global hair care secret of many Mediterranean women.