Sweet Almond

Sweet almonds (as opposed to bitter almonds) are almonds made for consumption and are the tasty nuts you are familiar with. Derivative products, such as oils, also offer a variety of health benefits, inside and out. Almonds contain monosaturated fats that lower blood pressure, improve lipid levels, and reduce cardiovascular risk. They are also an excellent source of vitamin E, which protects your cells on the molecular level from damaging free radicals. Almond oil, when applied to the skin has emollient properties that soften and smooth the skin. This can help prevent wrinkles and improve skin tone, while the fatty acids in almond oil create a natural moisture barrier that locks in moisture and reduces irritation. Almond oil, when added to a shampoo, gives hair shine, while at the cellular level, it fills in gaps in the hair, making hair softer and smoother over time.