almond oil

Almond oil is a natural plant-derived oil extracted from the seeds (nuts) of the Prunus dulcis tree. It is available as both sweet and bitter varieties; sweet almond oil is most commonly used for dietary and topical applications. Almond oil contains high levels of monounsaturated fatty acids (notably oleic acid), vitamin E (a potent antioxidant), phytochemicals, and other micronutrients[1][7]. Its mechanisms are primarily nutritional and emollient rather than pharmacological. Almond oil has been used in traditional medicine systems such as Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine to treat dry skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis[3][4]. It exhibits anti-inflammatory properties when applied topically or ingested. Clinical evidence supports its use as an emollient for improving skin tone, reducing scarring post-operatively, soothing minor wounds/cuts, treating acne due to antibacterial effects, healing sun damage via vitamin E content[3][4], and possibly improving bowel transit in cases of irritable bowel syndrome[3]. Orally consumed almond products may help lower LDL cholesterol while raising HDL cholesterol levels; however clinical evidence for cardiovascular benefit remains limited[1][7]. Almond derivatives such as laetrile/amygdalin have been promoted as alternative cancer treatments but lack clinical efficacy data; laetrile is banned by regulatory agencies due to toxicity risk from cyanide poisoning associated with bitter almonds[1].

Other names

almond oilsweet almond oilPrunus dulcis oilOleum amygdalaeAmygdale amaraOil of almonds