6 Uses and Benefits of Almond Oil
You’ve likely heard of olive, vegetable, and coconut oil, but did you know almond oil is also a thing?
Not only can you use it for food preparations, but also for hair and skin!
Almond oil contains many antioxidants, healthy fats, and nutrients that can be incredibly useful for the human body.
Nearly half of an almond’s weight consists of the oil inside. When a ripe almond is firmly pressed, the oil inside releases using minimal heat. This oil is considered unrefined, and it protects the nutrients and flavor of the oil (best to use unrefined oil for foods!).
Many people consider unrefined almond oil as “sweet” almond oil. Its counterpart, “bitter” almond oil, is created from a different variety of almonds, which are refined to remove the toxins present in the outer skin of almonds.
Refined oil is created by applying high heat (and sometimes chemicals).
It becomes more heat tolerant but looses flavor and sweetness during the heating process. Once extracted, almond oil can be used in various ways and can benefit your overall health.
Antioxidant Properties
Almond oil has many antioxidants, including vitamin E, which has been reported to stop the development of some chronic illnesses. Including this oil in even a few of your weekly dishes could help protect the longevity of your body’s health and life.
Reduces Cholesterol
The monounsaturated fats found in almond oil can help reduce the amount of bad cholesterol in your body, which increases heart health.
Almond oil is a good substitute for oils that are high in saturated fats, which can contribute to cardiovascular disease. Anytime you can reduce the amount of “bad” fats you’re putting in your body, the better – especially in the long run.
Substitute for Other Oils
When it comes to cooking with almond oil, there are many options! Almond oil has a mild, nutty aftertaste that can appeal to many.
If you’re making a particular dish that is already nutty (like these delicious almond butter bars), you can swap out traditional oils for almond oil!
Dressings/Dips
Almond oil makes a great drizzle or dressing over pastas and salads (try mixing the oil with herbs/apple cider vinegar for a zesty, nutty dressing!). If you’re making some stir fry or just sauteing some veggies, almond oil is a great choice!
Skincare
Almond oil moisturizes dry or itching skin, so you can use it alone or mix it into creams/essential oils, per your liking.
This oil has even been known to help treat the symptoms of eczema, dermatitis, and psoriasis.
Because almond oil is highly emollient (meaning it helps balance the absorption of moisture and water loss), it can help improve your complexion and skin tone AND can be used to treat acne because of its high vitamin A levels.
Almond oil is also popular for anyone who is pregnant as it can aid in preventing the appearance of stretch marks.
Finally, because almond oil is antifungal, it can help treat fungal diseases, such as athlete’s foot or ringworm.
Hair Care
Got a dry or itchy scalp?
Try putting some almond oil in your hair (and maybe try a moisturizing shampoo as well!).
Because of its powerful moisturizing abilities, almond oil can help keep your scalp nice and hydrated. It’s also rich in biotin, which can help strengthen your hair and nails.
Its antibacterial and antifungal properties aid in balancing the yeast that causes dandruff – hopefully eradicating the itchiness at its source.
Plus, if you deal with frizzy hair, you can run a small amount of almond oil over your hair before drying it to eliminate those fly-aways.
Clearly, almond oil has many uses, from the foods you put into your body to the skin and hair protecting your body.
It has fantastic health benefits and can help you stay healthy and strong from the inside out. Its antioxidants and vitamins, paired with its healing properties, make it a great asset to any home.
Have you tried almond oil?
What’s your favorite way to use it?
Let me know!
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