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Introduction
Internal Consumption
Benefits
Precautions
Recommended dosage
How to use
External Use
Benefits
Precautions
Recommended dosage
How to use
FAQs
References
Author Details
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Scientific View By
Monalisa Deka
M.Tech, B.Tech
Ayurvedic View By
Dr. Deepak Soni
BAMS
Reviewed By
Dr. Shilpa Garcha
MD (Pharmacology), MBBS
Last updated
29 Aug 2022 | 04:38 PM (IST)
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Almond
Almond, also known as the “King of Nuts”, is a highly nutritious food and is available in two varieties- sweet and bitter. Sweet almonds are thin-skinned and are the preferred choice for consumption over bitter almonds. Bitter almonds contain prussic acid (hydrogen cyanide) which is toxic when consumed, however, they are used for commercial purposes such as for making perfumes and cosmetics.
Almonds help improve brain function such as memory and learning ability due to its memory-enhancing property. They are also useful in lowering the level of LDL (bad cholesterol) and raising HDL (good cholesterol) due to its antioxidant and lipid-lowering property. Including a few almonds in the daily diet promotes overall health and in men helps increase physical stamina. The best way to obtain maximum health benefits of almonds is to soak them in water at night and eat them in the morning after removing their peel.
Almond oil can be applied alone or in combination with certain other oils on the skin to help reduce dark circles, dryness and hyperpigmentation. It can also be applied on the scalp and hair to promote hair growth and improve hair texture[1][2][9][12][15][21][22][24][25].
Almonds help improve brain function such as memory and learning ability due to its memory-enhancing property. They are also useful in lowering the level of LDL (bad cholesterol) and raising HDL (good cholesterol) due to its antioxidant and lipid-lowering property. Including a few almonds in the daily diet promotes overall health and in men helps increase physical stamina. The best way to obtain maximum health benefits of almonds is to soak them in water at night and eat them in the morning after removing their peel.
Almond oil can be applied alone or in combination with certain other oils on the skin to help reduce dark circles, dryness and hyperpigmentation. It can also be applied on the scalp and hair to promote hair growth and improve hair texture[1][2][9][12][15][21][22][24][25].
What are the synonyms of Almond?
Prunus dulcis, Badam, Tapastaruvu, Kadubadami, Vadumai, Ketapag
What is the source of Almond?
Plant Based
Benefits of Almond
What are the benefits of Almond for High cholesterol?
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Modern Science View
Almond might be beneficial in reducing the level of LDL (bad cholesterol) and raising the level of HDL (good cholesterol) due to its low content of saturated fat and high content of vitamin E. It also contains unsaturated fatty acid (oleic acid), phytosterols, fiber content and other bioactives that help control high cholesterol level[9][12].
Ayurvedic View
High cholesterol is due to an imbalance of Pachak Agni (digestive fire). Impaired digestion at the tissue level produces excess waste products or Ama (toxic remains in the body due to improper digestion) which leads to accumulation of bad cholesterol in the body that eventually blocks the blood vessels. Almond helps in controlling high cholesterol due to its Ushna (hot) potency along with its Ama (toxic remains in the body due to improper digestion) reducing property. Almond also helps to remove blockage from the blood vessels by eliminating toxins and preventing accumulation of bad cholesterol
Tips:
1. Take 4-5 Almonds and soak them overnight.
2. Peel off the skin and eat them in the morning on an empty stomach.
Tips:
1. Take 4-5 Almonds and soak them overnight.
2. Peel off the skin and eat them in the morning on an empty stomach.
What are the benefits of Almond for Constipation?
Modern Science View
Not enough scientific evidence is available to support the role of Almond in case of constipation.
Ayurvedic View
Constipation is a disease caused by an aggravation of Vata dosha in the large intestine. Almond oil can help control constipation instead of Almond because Almond oil has Vata balancing and Rechana (laxative ) effect and can help loosen stool.
Tips:
1. Take 1/2 - 1 teaspoon of Almond oil.
2. Mix it with it one glass of milk.
3. Have it at night before sleeping.
4. Repeat this regularly till you do not see improvement in constipation.
Tips:
1. Take 1/2 - 1 teaspoon of Almond oil.
2. Mix it with it one glass of milk.
3. Have it at night before sleeping.
4. Repeat this regularly till you do not see improvement in constipation.
How effective is Almond?
Insufficient evidence
Breast cancer, Cancer of mouth, nasopharynx and paranasal sinuses, larynx, oesophagus, Cancer of uterus, Constipation, High cholesterol, Lymphomas, Urinary bladder cancer
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Precautions when using Almond
Patients with diabetes
Modern Science View
Almond may lower the blood glucose levels. So it is generally advised to monitor the sugar levels regularly while taking Almond along with other anti-diabetic drugs[9].
Patients with kidney disease
Ayurvedic View
Avoid Almond if you have a renal stone problem as it can make the condition worse due to its rich oxalate content.
Recommended Dosage of Almond
- Almond Powder - ¼-½ teaspoon twice a day.
- Almond Capsule - 1 capsule twice a day.
- Almond Oil - ½-1 teaspoon once day.
How to use Almond
1. Soaked Almond
a. Take 4-5 Almonds and soak them overnight.
b. Peel off the skin and eat them in the morning on an empty stomach.
c. Repeat regularly for its memory enhancing properties[15][21].
2. Almond Powder with milk
a. Take ¼-½ teaspoon of Almond powder.
b. Take it with milk or honey preferably after a meal, once a day.
3. Almond Oil Capsule
Take one Almond oil capsule after taking lunch and dinner with milk.
4. Almond Oil
Take Almond oil 2-5ml with one glass of milk at night before sleeping.
5. Almond oil Drops
Put 1-2 drops on each nostril twice a day for reducing nasal congestion.
a. Take 4-5 Almonds and soak them overnight.
b. Peel off the skin and eat them in the morning on an empty stomach.
c. Repeat regularly for its memory enhancing properties[15][21].
2. Almond Powder with milk
a. Take ¼-½ teaspoon of Almond powder.
b. Take it with milk or honey preferably after a meal, once a day.
3. Almond Oil Capsule
Take one Almond oil capsule after taking lunch and dinner with milk.
4. Almond Oil
Take Almond oil 2-5ml with one glass of milk at night before sleeping.
5. Almond oil Drops
Put 1-2 drops on each nostril twice a day for reducing nasal congestion.
Benefits of Almond
What are the benefits of Almond for Chapped and irritated skin?
Modern Science View
Not enough scientific evidence is available to support the role of Almond in case of chapped skin.
Ayurvedic View
Chapped and irritated skin is due to an increased Vata dosha in the body which in turn reduces Kapha making the skin lose its moisture content. Almond oil helps to treat chapped skin and also remove skin irritation when applied on a regular basis due to its Snigdha (oily) and Ropan (healing) properties. These properties seal the moisture, nurtures skin and makes it soft and glowing.
Tip:
1. Take 2-3 drops of Almond oil.
2. Massage it on the skin gently.
3. Use this remedy once a day preferably before going to sleep.
Tip:
1. Take 2-3 drops of Almond oil.
2. Massage it on the skin gently.
3. Use this remedy once a day preferably before going to sleep.
How effective is Almond?
Insufficient evidence
Chapped and irritated skin, Skin damage due to radiotherapy for cancer
Precautions when using Almond
Allergy
Modern Science View
Apply Almond oil to a small area first to test for possible allergic reaction and use under medical supervision if your skin is excessively oily.
Ayurvedic View
Use Almond powder with milk or honey if your skin is highly sensitive.
Recommended Dosage of Almond
- Almond Oil - 5-10 drops or as per your requirement.
- Almond Powder - ½-1 teaspoon or as per your requirement.
How to use Almond
1. Almond paste with Milk
a. Take ½-1 teaspoon of Almond paste.
b. Mix it with milk.
c. Apply on the face and neck for 5-7 minutes.
d. Rinse with tap water.
e. Repeat one to three times a week to reduce hyperpigmentation.
2. Almond Oil for Dark Circles
a. Take 2-3 drops of Almond oil.
b. Massage it on the soft skin below the eyes for reducing dark circle.
c. Use this remedy once a day preferably before going to sleep[25].
3. Almond-Honey Face Pack
a. Take ½-1 teaspoon of Almond powder.
b. Mix it with honey and apply evenly on face and neck.
c. Let it sit for 5-7 minutes.
d. Rinse with tap water.
e. Use this remedy 2-3 times a week to get glowing skin[24].
a. Take ½-1 teaspoon of Almond paste.
b. Mix it with milk.
c. Apply on the face and neck for 5-7 minutes.
d. Rinse with tap water.
e. Repeat one to three times a week to reduce hyperpigmentation.
2. Almond Oil for Dark Circles
a. Take 2-3 drops of Almond oil.
b. Massage it on the soft skin below the eyes for reducing dark circle.
c. Use this remedy once a day preferably before going to sleep[25].
3. Almond-Honey Face Pack
a. Take ½-1 teaspoon of Almond powder.
b. Mix it with honey and apply evenly on face and neck.
c. Let it sit for 5-7 minutes.
d. Rinse with tap water.
e. Use this remedy 2-3 times a week to get glowing skin[24].
Frequently asked questions
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Modern Science View
Some of the best brands of almond oil available in India are:
1. Hamdard Roghan Badam Shirin Sweet Almond Hair Oil
2. Dabur Badam Tail
3. Morpheme sweet almond oil
4. Inatur
5. HealthVit
6. Khadi Sweet Almond Oil
7. Aloe Veda Distill Sweet Almond Oil
8. Patanjali Badam Hair Oil
1. Hamdard Roghan Badam Shirin Sweet Almond Hair Oil
2. Dabur Badam Tail
3. Morpheme sweet almond oil
4. Inatur
5. HealthVit
6. Khadi Sweet Almond Oil
7. Aloe Veda Distill Sweet Almond Oil
8. Patanjali Badam Hair Oil
Modern Science View
Almond milk is easy to prepare and is rich in vitamins. It is more easily digestible than cow’s milk and is good for children who are intolerant to cow’s milk[17].
1. Take a bowl of pre-soaked Almonds (preferably overnight).
2. Remove the outer coating and blend it to a smooth paste.
3. Add cold water to the consistency of milk and a little sugar/honey to enhance the taste.
4. Drink immediately or refrigerate it only for 1-2 days.
1. Take a bowl of pre-soaked Almonds (preferably overnight).
2. Remove the outer coating and blend it to a smooth paste.
3. Add cold water to the consistency of milk and a little sugar/honey to enhance the taste.
4. Drink immediately or refrigerate it only for 1-2 days.
Ayurvedic View
Almond should be soaked in water before eating as its skin is hard to digest. Soaking improves its digestibility and increases its nutritive value. If Almonds are eaten without soaking, they can aggravate Pitta and can cause hyperacidity. So the best way is to soak them overnight and peel the skin off in the morning before eating.
Ayurvedic View
Almond should be taken as per the strength of your Pachak agni (digestive fire). If your Pachak agni is low then start adding 4-5 Almonds in your daily diet.
Modern Science View
You can make Almond oil at home by following these steps:
1. Blend a handful of Almonds using blender at a slow speed.
2. Continue to grind till you get a smooth paste.
3. You can add one or two spoons of Olive oil (optional).
4. Transfer the paste to an airtight container and leave it at room temperature for around two weeks. You will notice that the oil starts to separate from the paste.
5. Carefully collect the oil and store it in a bottle. Oil extracted this way can be used on skin and hair.
1. Blend a handful of Almonds using blender at a slow speed.
2. Continue to grind till you get a smooth paste.
3. You can add one or two spoons of Olive oil (optional).
4. Transfer the paste to an airtight container and leave it at room temperature for around two weeks. You will notice that the oil starts to separate from the paste.
5. Carefully collect the oil and store it in a bottle. Oil extracted this way can be used on skin and hair.
Modern Science View
Almond oil on face can be applied in the following manner:
1. Take 2-3 drops of Almond oil.
2. Massage on the skin gently.
3. Use this remedy once a day preferably before going to sleep.
1. Take 2-3 drops of Almond oil.
2. Massage on the skin gently.
3. Use this remedy once a day preferably before going to sleep.
Modern Science View
According to a study, a diabetic patient can consume around 43 g of almonds per day.
Intake of Almonds helps to manage lipid profile, body weight and suppress hunger in diabetic patients[30].
Intake of Almonds helps to manage lipid profile, body weight and suppress hunger in diabetic patients[30].
Modern Science View
The best way to consume Almonds for weight loss is by soaking them in water. Almonds are a good source of fibre, protein, unsaturated fatty acids, vitamin E and A which might help in weight loss and manage hunger by keeping you full for a longer time. Almonds however are not completely digested by the body if consumed as whole therefore should be soaked before consumption[27][28].
Modern Science View
Almond is a rich source of anti-oxidants as well as vitamin E which is a fat-soluble anti-oxidant. Almond, when taken internally protects the cell from oxidative stress (cell damage) which can lead to aging and skin cancer[10]. Studies have also stated that Almond contains alpha-tocopherol and polyphenols which have photo-protective effects i.e., it helps protect from damage due to exposure to UV radiation[3][11].
Modern Science View
Almond could help in belly fat loss by bringing in satiety (feeling of fullness). This is because Almond is rich in both protein and fibre, the two components in a diet which is known for causing satiety, thus helping you get over any kind of hunger pangs[12][13].
Modern Science View
Almond is rich in magnesium which is an essential nutrient for healthy hair. Also, Almond is rich in vitamin E which can protect your hair from damage due to oxidative stress (damage due to free radicals) or due to the sun and avoid greying of hair[14][15].
Modern Science View
Studies have found that Almond has potential prebiotic effects. It helps in stimulating the activity of good bacteria and inhibits the growth of any pathogenic bacteria in the digestive system. This helps in maintaining a healthy gut system[16].
Modern Science View
Although the exact mechanism is not known, Almond might help manage anemia as it contains copper and iron which helps in the synthesis of hemoglobin[17].
Modern Science View
PCOS is a hormonal disorder and consuming Almonds could help ease the problem of PCOS. Myo-inositol (MI) is a component of vitamin B complex which helps regulate hormones and ovarian function. Almonds are a rich natural dietary source of a free form of MI (phytic acid) and can help with the problems associated with PCOS[19][20].
Modern Science View
Almond is a rich source of essential nutrients, such as tocopherol, folate, polyphenols and mono- and poly-unsaturated fatty acids. Animal studies have shown that regular consumption of Almonds can increase the acetylcholine levels in the brain and protect it from age-related memory problems. Another research also suggests that antioxidants (alpha-tocopherol ) present in Almonds can delay the progression of Alzheimer’s disease[21][22].
Modern Science View
Almond might help reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases when taken regularly. Almond lowers the level of LDL (bad cholesterol) and improves the level of HDL (good cholesterol) due to its low content of saturated fat and high content of vitamin E. It also contains unsaturated fatty acid (oleic acid), phytosterols, fiber content and other bioactive that help control high cholesterol level[9][12][24].
Modern Science View
Almond is loaded with essential nutrients like folate which is important during pregnancy. Folate also reduces the risk of miscarriage and autism. It is advisable to consult your doctor before consuming Almonds during pregnancy and lactation[26].
Modern Science View
There are no scientific evidence on the interaction of almond with prescription and non-prescription medicine.
Ayurvedic View
Yes, it is good to eat Almond on an empty stomach as it can help your body to absorb maximum nutrients from them. But if your Pachak agni (digestive fire) is low or if you have any other digestion problems then it is better to take it with other foods such as milk, grains or vegetables.
Modern Science View
There are two varieties of Almond oil: Sweet Almond oil and the bitter Almond oil. It is only the Sweet Almond oil that is safe to drink orally.
Modern Science View
Almond oil is rich in vitamin E which is known to manage a variety of skin problems such as under eye dark circle. This is attributable to its antioxidant properties which protect the skin from free radicals[24].
Modern Science View
Almond oil is rich in fatty acids which makes it a good moisturizing agent for dry and normal skin. It is also useful in managing excessive dry skin conditions like psoriasis and eczema. Some studies also state the use of Almond oil in reducing blemishes as well as post-operative scars. Regular application of Almond oil will help in improving complexion and overall skin tone[25].
Modern Science View
Along with eating Almonds, you can also apply Almond oil to your hair for hair nourishment. Pure Almond oil is rich in vitamin E and vitamin D and when massaged onto the scalp and hair can give you smooth and healthy hair.
Modern Science View
Yes, Almond oil might help in skin whitening. Almond oil might help to heal the skin damaged due to UV radiation. The vitamins present in Almond oil also provides a clear and fair skin tone[29][31].
Disclaimer
The content is purely informative and educational in nature and should not be construed as medical advice. Please use the content only in consultation with an appropriate certified medical or healthcare professional.