Almonds Benefits & Information

Latin Name

Prunis dulcis

Also Known As

Sweet Almonds

Origin

Spain

Parts Used

Seed

Traditional Use and Health Benefits

Almonds are exceptionally high in Vitamin E, a fat soluble, antioxidant vitiamin who's primary role is to scavenge and neutralise free radicals. They are rich in magnesium, as well as other minerals, therefore aiding bone health. Magnesium is key to the flow of blood, oxygen and nutrients through the veins and arteries, with a lack of magnesium being associated with heart disease. Almonds are also a rich source of vegetable protein, and they are also a good source of folate, which supports the production of red blood cells and supports cardiovascular function. In fact it seems that Almonds do have a role to play in maintaining a healthy heart, as they contain the phyto-chemical arginine, and mono saturated fats, both of which are known to be helpful in the prevention of coronary disease. Almonds also lower the glycemic index of a other foods, and ensure the slow and stable release of energy into the blood. They are also helpful in maintaining a balanced blood sugar level.

Eating Almonds
A handful of Almonds per day has a positive effect on cholesterol levels and helps maintain a healthy heart, they can stabilize blood sugar levels and offer a source of anti-oxidants for the prevention of many diseases. Although they are rich in fats, they are the kind of fats the body needs and provide a range of amino acids and omega oils.

Almonds are great for the skin, hair and nails and can be used on the skin externally.

Healthy Marzipan:
Mix Ground Almonds, Rose Water & Raw Agave syrup together to make a firm and smooth marzipan consistency.

Almonds for beauty
Externally, Ground Almond can be added to honey and water to make a paste and this can be used as a face mask. Whole Almonds can be broken up in a food processor or ground in a grinder and added to lemon juice, and Honey to make a body scrub.

Sweet Almond oil is deeply nourishing and softening to the skin, acting as an emollient. It is particularly good for dry, chapped or sun damaged skin and it encourages cell renewal. It is safe for babies, and old people and it is popular as an ingredient in face cream and as a massage carrier oil.

Typical Use

There is no upper dosage for Almonds as they are mild enough to be consumed liberally, however a handful of Almonds are day is known to be a healthy dose.

Sweet Almond oil can be used for skin care and as a massage carrier oil, use approximately 30ml for a full body massage.

Folklore and History

The Almond is grown across the Mediterranean and into Lebanon, Syria and Israel. It is the official state tree of Kashmir. Almonds are revered in many cultures, and mentioned ten times in the bible. In India the Almond is seen as being good for the brain, and in China the Almond is seen as a symbol of enduring beauty and sadness ! An archaeological specimen of the almond fruit was found in the tomb of Tutankhamen, dating back to Egypt (c1325 BC ).