Sweet Almond Oil (Prunus amygdalus dulcis)
This beautifully rich, versatile oil is very popular for massage and for use in skincare products.
It is particularly useful for:
- Moisturising the skin
- Helping to relieve inflammation, red skin and itching
- Helping to relieve muscular pain and tension
Sweet almond oil is extracted from the kernels of the almond tree by the cold-pressing extraction process, which helps preserve the active ingredients within the oil for maximum potency. The oil is rich in oleic and linoleic essential fatty acids. These fatty acids emolliate the skin by balancing the loss and absorption of moisture.
The oil is a popular choice as a massage oil because it is silky smooth whilst not penetrating too quickly into the skin or leaving a greasy residue. The oil can be used on its own or as a base for other ingredients, e.g. add a few drops of essential oils for increased therapeutic benefit and a desirable scent.
It is suitable for all skin types but is especially valuable for dry or irritated skin types. As sweet almond oil is relatively unstable it has a shelf life of 6-9 months.
The shelf life can be extended by adding a few drops of Vit E oil or 10% jojoba or wheatgerm oil.