Almond Prunus dulcis

Sweet almond oil is a favorite in aromatherapy as a carrier oil and is valued in natural skin care for it's ability to soften and condition the skin. Pale yellow in color, almond oil is expeller pressed from raw almond kernels. The oil contains glucosides, minerals and vitamins and is rich in protein. Almond oil is good for all skin types and helps to relieve dryness, itching and inflammation.

Almonds are a rich source of Vitamin E, and mono unsaturated fat, one of the two "good" fats responsible for lowering LDL cholesterol. Almond nuts are a healthy treat as is, or can be made into almond butter, a spread similar to peanut butter. The sweet almond contains practically no carbohydrates and can be made into flour for those on a low carbohydrate diet, suffering from diabetes, or by those who are looking for a gluten free flour.

Finely ground almonds also serve as an organic exfoliating ingredient in facial skin scrubs. The gentle abrasive action of the almonds helps to remove dead skin cells, and are the perfect natural replacement for facial soap.