Introduction
Almond oil has several benefits, including moisturizing properties and use as an ingredient in many cosmetic products, but that’s not the only reason you should use it every day. In fact, there are 10 reasons to start using almond oil right now, whether it’s alone or mixed with other oils like coconut and olive oils. Try one of these 10 almond oil benefits every day and see if you notice a difference in your skin and hair after just a few weeks!
1) Almond oil can moisturize your face, body, and hair
Almond oil can moisturize your face, body, and hair with its lightweight texture. As it penetrates deeper into skin, almond oil nourishes dehydrated skin and works as a soothing agent for irritated areas. Apply some after bathtime or showering when your pores are open and receptive to nutrients. Vitamin E in almond oil is an antioxidant that protects skin cells from free radical damage. If you have dry, itchy skin due to eczema or psoriasis, apply some almond oil twice daily for fast relief. You’ll find it in many commercial skin creams as well as natural lotions because of its high vitamin E content.
2) It can help you lose weight
Preliminary research suggests that almonds and almond oil may help lower levels of bad LDL cholesterol and reduce belly fat, leading to weight loss. If you’re trying to shed pounds, eating a handful of nuts every day might be exactly what you need. And while they can feel like a treat—with their satisfying crunch—nuts are actually loaded with heart-healthy fats and protein. They’re an excellent source of fiber, which will keep you feeling full for hours. Nuts are also loaded with anti-inflammatory fatty acids and antioxidants.
3) Almond oil nourishes your skin
One of almond oil’s most prized benefits is its ability to nourish skin. That’s because it contains a variety of essential nutrients such as vitamins A, B and E, as well as minerals like potassium, magnesium and calcium. As an emollient, it also gives your skin a smoother appearance by sealing in moisture. Studies have shown that applying almond oil on your skin helps protect against oxidative stress and even ultraviolet radiation damage. By keeping your skin hydrated while ensuring all these benefits, you can keep wrinkles at bay without having to fork out thousands for plastic surgery procedures.
4) This versatile plant-based product is often used in aromatherapy
Almond oil can be applied topically and inhaled. This gives you an opportunity to benefit from its moisturizing and antioxidant properties by massaging it into your skin, adding a few drops to your bathwater or diffusing it in a room that is often occupied, such as your bedroom. If you choose to diffuse almond oil in your home, keep in mind that most machines heat oils as they’re dispersed through a filter; cold-pressed almond oil will perform best with these types of machines.
5) You can cook with it
When it comes to cooking, it’s tough to beat almond oil. Many other oils are unstable at high temperatures—olive oil starts smoking at 320 degrees F—and don’t have a very high smoke point. But almond oil is well-suited for sautéing and pan-frying. And thanks to its relatively low smoke point of about 375 degrees F, you can use it as a substitute for butter when you’re baking. That makes it especially good for baked goods like cookies and pie crusts that have a short shelf life and aren’t typically stored in your pantry long term.
6) Hemp seed contains more protein than almonds do, but almond butter packs more fiber
One ounce of almonds has 8 grams of protein and 3.5 grams of fiber, while one ounce of hemp seed contains 11 grams of protein and 7 grams of fiber. If you’re in a smoothie or are snacking on nuts, almond butter may be your best bet. But if you need hemp oil for cooking and want a richer source of protein, opt for that instead. Almonds also contain less fat than other nuts do; both hemp seeds and almond butter are all-natural sources (no oil needed). Almond butter is actually slightly lower in fat than pumpkin seeds and pistachios too.
7) The sweet aroma of almonds stimulates feelings of happiness
Almonds contain GABA, a neurotransmitter responsible for calming your nervous system. When you smell almonds, a reaction occurs that releases dopamine and serotonin. These two neurotransmitters are believed to be involved in creating feelings of pleasure and happiness. If you feel stressed out or depressed, take a deep breath of almond-scented air. This will help clear your mind so you can focus on what matters most.
8) This nutty ingredient promotes overall health and well-being.
Almonds contain several nutrients, including calcium, vitamin E and magnesium. In addition, almond oil contains monounsaturated fats which reduce bad cholesterol and help maintain a healthy blood pressure. You can use almond oil in your daily diet or beauty routine for these other health benefits as well. The key is to use it often in order to receive all of its benefits.
