This week we will talk about Almond Oil. This type of oil is obtained from the fruit of the Almond tree, specifically from the fruit of the almond tree Prunus amygdalus, of the rosaceae family. It is of Asian origin as it is cultivated mainly in the regions of Central Asia, although it has spread throughout Europe and for many years it has played an important role in Spain.
Almonds are characterised by their high fat content, especially unsaturated fats. But they are also known for their high quantity of high quality and complete vegetable proteins, in terms of their essential amino acid content and low carbohydrate content.
There are several types of almonds, but these are the most outstanding:
- The Marcona: Its shape is very characteristic and easy to recognise, as they are usually round, fat and small. It is an almond with a low percentage of bitterness and consists of less oil compared to other types of almond.
- Mollar: This is a variety that lies somewhere between the hard-shelled almonds and the 100% soft American almonds that can be broken with the fingertips. It contains a soft shell that is easy to crack. Normally, it is highly appreciated by the consumer for its sweetness.
- The bitter almond: This type of almond is poisonous, as it contains amygdalin, a cyanogenetic glycoside which, when chewed, releases hydrocyanic acid when it comes into contact with saliva.
Almond oil is extracted from sweet almonds, i.e. Marcona almonds. However, bitter almond oil can also be used, as long as it undergoes a refining process.
To obtain this oil, there are 2 different processes, cold pressing and refining.
As for the cold pressing process, the almonds are dried and pressed at low temperatures.
This sweet almond oil is mostly used for cosmetic purposes due to its properties, as it contains monounsaturated fats, essential fatty acids such as omega-3 and omega-6. It also contains antioxidants and vitamin E, and some B vitamins such as B1 and B6.
Additionally, it provides multiple benefits for both the skin and our hair as it helps fight oxidative damage and can help stimulate hair growth. Likewise, it is excellent for treating different skin problems, especially dryness, eczema or acne.
On the other hand, refined almond oil has a neutral taste and smell as well as a transparent color, which makes it highly in demand in the cosmetic industry thanks to its versatility.
Therefore, we can say that almond oil has great benefits for the skin, but also for people's health.
We encourage you to try almond oil! If you have ever used it, let us know in the comments.