What's So Great About Almonds?: The Health Benefits of Almonds and Almond Oil

Almonds and almond oil give a remarkable flavor to almost any dish, sweet or savory. They can be purchased anywhere for a minimal cost…truly one of our favorites.

There is more to almonds and almond oil than just plain awesomeness. There are a load of health benefits associated with almonds!

To begin with, almonds have been around for thousands of years, with endless health benefits. Both almonds and almond oil are high in vitamin E, a well-known antioxidant that supports our immune system, and vitamin A for healthy vision and bones. Almonds also contain calcium and manganese to promote strong bones, magnesium for digestive health along with the growth and maintenance of bones and nerves, protein for building and maintaining muscles, fiber that also aids in digestion, potassium to keep our heart functioning well, thiamin (B1), again aiding in digestion and helping our immune system, and niacin to regulate cholesterol and address heart issues. They are also low in sugar and salt.

Almond oil is extracted from the almond kernels and is an unsaturated fat. These fats are neutral or will raise HDL (good cholesterol) levels, but not LDL (bad cholesterol) levels.

Wow! That is a lot of nutritional value-and here is a fun fact: The almond is the seed from the fruit of the almond and are in the same family as plums, peaches, and cherries!

There are two types of almond oil: Bitter and sweet.

The sweet almond oil comes from the edible almond that we eat. We know they are nutritious, but they are also good for our skin and hair. Almonds have been touted to reduce the signs of aging and provide moisture when applied to the skin. They are also used in many haircare products to repair and create shiny, soft, healthy hair. Sweet almond oil can be purchased for food consumption or hair care products at almost any grocery, big box or health food store.

Bitter almond oil can be toxic and is not to be used, unless under the advice of a doctor.

There are so many health benefits to our little almond and its oil, so let’s grab a handful or cook with a cupful today!!

Do you like almonds or cook with almond oil? What is your favorite application?