Almond is a mouth-watering snack that has long been used in many health and beauty products. What many people do not know, however, is that there are two kinds of almond oil, the sweet and the bitter. The latter is well known for its medicinal properties, as well as its pleasant aroma being used to scent beauty products.
While both are of the same species, the sweet variety is derived from the whole fruit and the bitter one comes from the dried kernel. Here are some of the health benefits you can enjoy from using bitter almond oil.
Benefits of Bitter Almond Oil
Increases hair growth
This oil helps increase hair growth, especially when used at least once each month. It is packed with nutrients for your scalp and hair follicles. It also helps protect your scalp from UV rays, as well as the dangerous pollutants that clog the follicles. These environmental factors cause your hair growth to slow down gradually. When you use this weekly, you can also keep your hair healthy and thick, as well.
Fights fever
Bitter almonds have been used to reduce fever by fighting infections. They contain alkaline compounds, which prevent infection and lower down your fever. The oil prevents the growth of bacteria, viruses, and protozoa. However, you should only use this oil in small doses.
Detoxifies the body
The body tends to remove toxins through urine and sweat. When the oil is consumed in small amounts, your body will excrete it through frequent urination. It serves as a diuretic to help you detoxify and lose weight. When combined with its tranquilizing and anesthetic effects, it can lower down your blood pressure and keep your heart healthy.
Numbs mild pain
This oil has long been used as a local anesthetic. When topically applied, it will make your skin and nerves numb to pain. This oil, however, must only be applied as a topical anesthetic as consuming it without knowing the safe dosage can be fatal.
Regulates blood pressure
Bitter almond oil has relaxing properties. It helps lower down your blood pressure, and calm the body and mind. By keeping your blood pressure under control, your overall heart health is improved and your chances of heart disease and stroke become lower.
Terminates intestinal worms
This oil has the ability to kill intestinal worms. It is because of its toxic nature and bitterness. However, this oil should be consumed in extremely low potency. It is best to consult your physician before ingesting this oil.
Gets rid of dandruff
Bitter almond essential oil is packed with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds. These properties can help block bacteria and fungi from entering your scalp. It keeps your hair and scalp from excessive oil buildup, preventing dandruff.
Helps treat certain cancers
Studies show that this oil’s toxicity is good for killing certain cancer cells. This is particularly due to the hydrocyanic acid or hydrogen cyanide present in it.
Kills bacteria
This oil contains toxic chemicals that stop the infection from spreading inside your body. Hydrogen cyanide and benzaldehyde are the two components responsible for the oil’s antiviral, antibacterial, and antifungal properties. As long as taken in low doses, it will help your body combat viruses, infection, and bacteria.
Works well as massage oil
Bitter almond oil works well for massaging. In fact, it is widely used in spas. This oil spreads easily because its consistency is light and thin. A small amount can already cover a large surface. It also does not get absorbed quickly, which is why reapplication is not always necessary.
Important note:
the bitter almond oil contains toxic chemicals and must only be used topically in small doses. Despite this, it has been widely used in medicine for many years.
