Almond
Almond
Almond, also known as the “King of Nuts”, is a highly nutritious food and is available in two varieties- sweet and bitter. Sweet almonds are thin-skinned and are the preferred choice for consumption over bitter almonds. Bitter almonds contain prussic acid (hydrogen cyanide) which is toxic when consumed, however, they are used for commercial purposes such as for making perfumes and cosmetics.
Almonds help improve brain function such as memory and learning ability due to its memory-enhancing property. They are also useful in lowering the level of LDL (bad cholesterol) and raising HDL (good cholesterol) due to its antioxidant and lipid-lowering property. Including a few almonds in the daily diet promotes overall health and in men helps increase physical stamina. The best way to obtain maximum health benefits of almonds is to soak them in water at night and eat them in the morning after removing their peel.
Almond oil can be applied alone or in combination with certain other oils on the skin to help reduce dark circles, dryness and hyperpigmentation. It can also be applied on the scalp and hair to promote hair growth and improve hair texture[1][2][9][12][15][21][22][24][25].
Almonds help improve brain function such as memory and learning ability due to its memory-enhancing property. They are also useful in lowering the level of LDL (bad cholesterol) and raising HDL (good cholesterol) due to its antioxidant and lipid-lowering property. Including a few almonds in the daily diet promotes overall health and in men helps increase physical stamina. The best way to obtain maximum health benefits of almonds is to soak them in water at night and eat them in the morning after removing their peel.
Almond oil can be applied alone or in combination with certain other oils on the skin to help reduce dark circles, dryness and hyperpigmentation. It can also be applied on the scalp and hair to promote hair growth and improve hair texture[1][2][9][12][15][21][22][24][25].
What are the synonyms of Almond?
Prunus dulcis, Badam, Tapastaruvu, Kadubadami, Vadumai, Ketapag
What is the source of Almond?
Plant Based
Benefits of Almond
Modern Science View
Chapped and irritated skin is due to an increased Vata dosha in the body which in turn reduces Kapha making the skin lose its moisture content. Almond oil helps to treat chapped skin and also remove skin irritation when applied on a regular basis due to its Snigdha (oily) and Ropan (healing) properties. These properties seal the moisture, nurtures skin and makes it soft and glowing.
Tip:
1. Take 2-3 drops of Almond oil.
2. Massage it on the skin gently.
3. Use this remedy once a day preferably before going to sleep.
Tip:
1. Take 2-3 drops of Almond oil.
2. Massage it on the skin gently.
3. Use this remedy once a day preferably before going to sleep.
Ayurvedic View
Chapped and irritated skin is due to an increased Vata dosha in the body which in turn reduces Kapha making the skin lose its moisture content. Almond oil helps to treat chapped skin and also remove skin irritation when applied on a regular basis due to its Snigdha (oily) and Ropan (healing) properties. These properties seal the moisture, nurtures skin and makes it soft and glowing.
Tip:
1. Take 2-3 drops of Almond oil.
2. Massage it on the skin gently.
3. Use this remedy once a day preferably before going to sleep.
Tip:
1. Take 2-3 drops of Almond oil.
2. Massage it on the skin gently.
3. Use this remedy once a day preferably before going to sleep.
How effective is Almond?
Insufficient evidence
Chapped and irritated skin, Skin damage due to radiotherapy for cancer
Precautions when using Almond
Advice from Experts
Ayurvedic View
Almond oil should be used applied after below under eye after consulting skin expert.
Allergy
Modern Science View
Apply Almond oil to a small area first to test for possible allergic reaction and use under medical supervision if your skin is excessively oily.
Ayurvedic View
Use Almond powder with milk or honey if your skin is highly sensitive.
Modern Science View
People who are allergic to Almond or its constituents should use ita only under doctor’s supervision.
Tips:
1. Almond paste should be used with milk or honey if your skin is highly sensitive.
2. Almond oil should be used with any soft cream if someone has skin is excessively oily.
3. Almond oil should be used applied after below under eye after consulting skin expert.
Tips:
1. Almond paste should be used with milk or honey if your skin is highly sensitive.
2. Almond oil should be used with any soft cream if someone has skin is excessively oily.
3. Almond oil should be used applied after below under eye after consulting skin expert.
Ayurvedic View
Use Almond oil should be used with any soft cream if someone has skin is excessively oily.
Recommended Dosage of Almond
- Almond Oil - 5-10 drops or as per your requirement.
- Almond Powder - ½-1 teaspoon or as per your requirement.
How to use Almond
1. Take Almond paste with Milk
a. Take ½-1 teaspoon of Almond paste.
b. Mix it with milk.
c. Apply on the face and neck for 5-7 minutes.
d. Rinse with tap water.
e. Repeat one to three times a week to reduce hyperpigmentation.
2. Almond Oil for Dark Circles
a. Take 2-3 drops of Almond oil.
b. Massage it on the soft skin below the eyes for reducing dark circle.
c. Use this remedy once a day preferably before going to sleep[25].
3. Almond-Honey Face Pack
a. Take ½-1 teaspoon of Almond powder.
b. Mix it with honey and apply evenly on face and neck.
c. Let it sit for 5-7 minutes.
d. Rinse with tap water.
e. Use this remedy 2-3 times a week to get glowing skin[24].
a. Take ½-1 teaspoon of Almond paste.
b. Mix it with milk.
c. Apply on the face and neck for 5-7 minutes.
d. Rinse with tap water.
e. Repeat one to three times a week to reduce hyperpigmentation.
2. Almond Oil for Dark Circles
a. Take 2-3 drops of Almond oil.
b. Massage it on the soft skin below the eyes for reducing dark circle.
c. Use this remedy once a day preferably before going to sleep[25].
3. Almond-Honey Face Pack
a. Take ½-1 teaspoon of Almond powder.
b. Mix it with honey and apply evenly on face and neck.
c. Let it sit for 5-7 minutes.
d. Rinse with tap water.
e. Use this remedy 2-3 times a week to get glowing skin[24].
Frequently asked questions
Modern Science View
4.
Ayurvedic View
Almond should be taken as per the strength of your Pachak agni (digestive fire). If your Pachak agni is low then start adding 4-5 Almonds in your daily diet.
Modern Science View
Some of the best brands of almond oil available in India are:
1. Hamdard Roghan Badam Shirin Sweet Almond Hair Oil
2. Dabur Badam Tail
3. Morpheme sweet almond oil
4. Inatur
5. HealthVit
6. Khadi Sweet Almond Oil
7. Aloe Veda Distill Sweet Almond Oil
8. Patanjali Badam Hair Oil
1. Hamdard Roghan Badam Shirin Sweet Almond Hair Oil
2. Dabur Badam Tail
3. Morpheme sweet almond oil
4. Inatur
5. HealthVit
6. Khadi Sweet Almond Oil
7. Aloe Veda Distill Sweet Almond Oil
8. Patanjali Badam Hair Oil
Modern Science View
Although not enough evidence are available to state the importance of soaked almonds, traditionally Almond has been consumed by soaking in water for few hours to overnight. It is believed that the brown peel of almonds might inhibit nutrient absorption. Soaked almonds are also believed to aid in digestion.
Modern Science View
You can make Almond oil at home by following these steps:
1. Blend a handful of Almonds using blender at a slow speed.
2. Continue to grind till you get a smooth paste.
3. You can add one or two spoons of Olive oil (optional).
4. Transfer the paste to an airtight container and leave it at room temperature for around two weeks. You will notice that the oil starts to separate from the paste.
5. Carefully collect the oil and store it in a bottle. Oil extracted this way can be used on skin and hair.
1. Blend a handful of Almonds using blender at a slow speed.
2. Continue to grind till you get a smooth paste.
3. You can add one or two spoons of Olive oil (optional).
4. Transfer the paste to an airtight container and leave it at room temperature for around two weeks. You will notice that the oil starts to separate from the paste.
5. Carefully collect the oil and store it in a bottle. Oil extracted this way can be used on skin and hair.
Modern Science View
Almond oil on face can be applied in the following manner:
1. Take 2-3 drops of Almond oil.
2. Massage on the skin gently.
3. Use this remedy once a day preferably before going to sleep.
1. Take 2-3 drops of Almond oil.
2. Massage on the skin gently.
3. Use this remedy once a day preferably before going to sleep.
Modern Science View
According to a study, a diabetic patient can consume around 43 g of almonds per day.
Intake of Almonds helps to manage lipid profile, body weight and suppress hunger in diabetic patients[30].
Intake of Almonds helps to manage lipid profile, body weight and suppress hunger in diabetic patients[30].
Modern Science View
The best way to consume Almonds for weight loss is by soaking them in water. Almonds are a good source of fibre, protein, unsaturated fatty acids, vitamin E and A which might help in weight loss and manage hunger by keeping you full for a longer time. Almonds however are not completely digested by the body if consumed as whole therefore should be soaked before consumption[27][28].
Ayurvedic View
Almond should be soaked in water before eating as its skin is hard to digest. Soaking improves its digestibility and increases its nutritive value. If Almonds are eaten without soaking, they can aggravate Pitta and can cause hyperacidity. So the best way is to soak them overnight and peel the skin off in the morning before eating.
Modern Science View
Almond milk is easy to prepare and is rich in vitamins. It is more easily digestible than cow’s milk and is good for children who are intolerant to cow’s milk[17].
1. Take a bowl of pre-soaked Almonds (preferably overnight).
2. Remove the outer coating and blend it to a smooth paste.
3. Add cold water to the consistency of milk and a little sugar/honey to enhance the taste.
4. Drink immediately or refrigerate it only for 1-2 days.
1. Take a bowl of pre-soaked Almonds (preferably overnight).
2. Remove the outer coating and blend it to a smooth paste.
3. Add cold water to the consistency of milk and a little sugar/honey to enhance the taste.
4. Drink immediately or refrigerate it only for 1-2 days.
References
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- Sultana Y, Kohli K, Athar M, et al.Effect of pre-treatment of almond oil on ultraviolet B-induced cutaneous photoaging in mice.J Cosmet Dermatol.2007;6(1):14-19.
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- Mandalari G, Palop CN, Bisignano G, et al.Potential prebiotic properties of almond (Amygdalus communis L.) seeds.Appl Environ Microbiol.2008;74(14): 4264–4270.
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- Giusi P, Bizzarri M, Monastra G.Strategies for the treatment of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) women: The role of myoinositol (MI) and d-chiro-inositol (DCI) between diet and therapy.Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): Clinical Aspects, Potential Complications And Dietary Management.Nova Science Publishers 2016.
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- Sultana Y, Kohli K, Athar M, Khar RK, Aqil M. Effect of pre-treatment of almond oil on ultraviolet B-induced cutaneous photoaging in mice. J Cosmet Dermatol. 2007;6(1):14-9.
Disclaimer
The content is purely informative and educational in nature and should not be construed as medical advice. Please use the content only in consultation with an appropriate certified medical or healthcare professional.