ALMOND TREE; ALMOND; ALMOND OIL

Almond tree originates in Central Asia, is of the rose family and develops white or light pink blossoms. It is highly appreciated in many cultures, its mention as early as the bible, where its fruit – the almond – is considered one of the more prestigious ones, while Christian symbolism often associates its blossoms with Jesus and Mary (almonds surround Jesus as the symbol of Mary). In China, almonds are a symbol of permanent sadness as well as feminine beauty.

Propagation of almonds has been mentioned from the early bronze age forward (3000-2000 b.c.), they were also found in Tutankhamun’s tomb. Almond tree was probably one of the fist cultivated fruit trees.

The healing powers of its fruit – the almond – include improved metabolism, cancer prevention, soothing headaches and other pains, stimulation of water excretion, soothing coughs, liver and heart troubles, lowering blood cholesterol, and more.
The traditional Chinese medicine recommends consummation of the fruit to strengthen your lungs, while ayurveda considers it to be powerful nutrition for the brain and nervous system. It is said to stimulate hight intellectual levels and longevity. Almond oil, on the other hand, is considered an aphrodisiac in ayurveda and unani tibb (the Greek-Persian system of medicine), as well as an anti-inflammatory agent, boosts immunity and provides antihepatotoxic effects.

Almonds are a dietary factory for they provide a rich source of calcium, fibre, folic acid, magnesium and potassium. In addition to various vitamins and minerals, almond oil is also rich in vitamin E, proteins, potassium, zinc, and oleic, stearic, palmitic, linoleic and linolenic acids.

It is full of vitamin E, a natural antioxidant that protects the skin from oxidative stress and UV injuries, keeping it soft and elastic. Vitamin E, in addition to protein and amino acids in the oil, helps form collagen, which in turn prevents skin dehydration and slows the ageing process.

The content of vitamin A helps reduce acne outbreaks and scars, caused by acne. Its light structure enables deep infiltration into the skin, softens and cleanses it of impurities in the pores or hair follicles. Therefore, it is excellent for make-up removal, especially around the eyes.

It is safe to use on sensitive skin for it generally does not cause allergic reactions, provides beneficial to reducing dark circles and bags around the eyes (if applied regularly before sleep, you should see the difference after two weeks).

It can also be used for skin inflammation after sun exposure, to relieve pain and soothe redness. It soothes eczema and psoriasis related issues, a consequence of internal and external triggers. The affected skin is dry and itchy, scratching only makes it worse – a damaged epidermis is more susceptible to bacterial and fungal infections. Mild hypoallergenic almond oil reduces itching, moisturises and softens the skin.

Perfect for babies, who are prone to get rashes on their sensitive skin, due to diaper use. For skin inflammations, caused by rubbing it against different materials, doctors usually prescribe ointments based on zinc, and almond oil, rich in zinc, presenting an excellent natural alternative.

For its high protein content, almond oil is also used to ease muscle aches, by massaging tired muscles or relaxation by aromatherapy.

Lack of magnesium, calcium and zinc leads to poor hair growth and their falling out, while almond oil, rich in these minerals, strengthens the hair and lessens their splitting. It has a similar effect on nails. For its noticeable content of the B complex vitamins and iron, it contributes to better nail health.