Almond Oil: Uses, Benefits, Side Effects By Dr. Rajeev Singh

Introduction

Almond oil is an edible, essential oil densely packed with a variety of nutrients that are beneficial for our health. If you are looking for a versatile oil, you must try almond oil. Almond oil is plentiful as the almond trees are cultivated as wild trees in the tropical forest and the cold and temperate regions of India, the Saharan plains, Iran, Turkey and Nepal. The oil is scientifically called Oleum amygdalae. It is prepared from two varieties of Prunus dulcis almonds, sweet and bitter. It is an oil composed of glycerine and oleic acid with a mild odour and a slightly nutty taste. Production of almond oil is an important business globally. Almond oil is produced through the separation processes of extraction and expression^1,2.​​ Let’s get to know more about this bountiful oil and how we can bring it to our home!

Nutritional Value of Almond Oil

Almond oil has an abundant source of micronutrients and macronutrients. It contains bioactive compounds such as monounsaturated (MUFA) and polyunsaturated (PUFA) fatty acids, phytosterols, tocopherol and oleic acid. It is also enriched with alpha-tocopherol, beta-zoosterol and squalene⁴​.​ 

Nutritional value of Almond Oil per 100 grams³.​​

• Energy: 884 kcal
• Fats: 100 g
• Fatty acids (saturated): 8.2 g
• Fatty acids (MUFA): 69.9 g
• Fatty acids (PUFA): 17.4 g
• Choline: 0.4 mg
• Vitamin K: 7 µg
• Vitamin E: 39.2 mg

Properties of Almond Oil

Almond oil has been used in complementary medicine systems for its immense health benefits. The following are a few properties of almond oil: 

• It may act as an antioxidant. 
• It may have anti-inflammatory action. 
• It may act as an immunity booster. 
• It may increase good cholesterol levels. 
• It may have antibacterial activity. 
• It may have anti-fungal properties. 
• It may act as an emollient (moisturising agent)^1,2.

I recently read an article that says, with a high concentration of mono-unsaturated fatty acids, almond oil may assist with constipation and irritable bowel syndrome while also reducing the pace at which carbohydrates are absorbed in the stomach and improving insulin sensitivity⁵.

Dr. Siddharth Gupta, B.A.M.S, M.D (Ayu)

Potential Uses of Almond Oil

The following may be the potential benefits of eating almond oil: 

1. Potential Uses of Almond Oil for Heart Health

Almond oil may help reduce the chances of developing heart disease. Almond oil may have antioxidant properties, eliminating free radicals and stopping bad cholesterol formation. Recent clinical trials by Jenkins et al. done in 2022 suggest that almond oil may show that when added to a daily diet, it may significantly reduce bad cholesterol and triglycerides and increase the blood levels of good cholesterol in healthy volunteers. It might enhance dyslipidaemia and endothelial function and reduce heart disease risk^2,4. However, more studies are needed to conclude the benefits of almond oil for heart health. If you have heart problems, it is advisable to consult a doctor.

2. Potential Uses of Almond Oil in Diabetes

An animal model study⁴ (Al-Attar et al., 2020) found that the consumption of almond oil may normalize blood glucose. It may have a blood glucose-lowering effect related to reducing glucose absorption through the gut rather than altering insulin levels. This may be because of the lipid portion of the almond oil that may help decrease glucose levels. However, there is a requirement for research on humans to ensure that almond oil benefits diabetes. If you have diabetes, consult a doctor and get proper treatment.

3. Potential Uses of Almond Oil for Skin

Ayurveda describes many uses of almond oil for skin. Almond oil is used topically by aromatherapists, beauticians and masseuses due to its high vitamin E level. It contains oleic and linoleic acids, vitamin B and zinc that might support the nourishment of skin. A study² done by Cantor et al. in 2006 found that almond oil may help enhance dry skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis. Additionally, it may help soothe and revitalise the skin, boosting its tone and complexion. However, it’s best to consult a doctor before using it instead of self-medicating. 

4. Potential Uses of Almond Oil in Cancer

An animal study^2,4 by Iwahashi 2001 et al. suggests that the inclusion of almond oil in a diet may help reduce the chances of colon cancer. It may have anti-proliferative effects that might control the spread of cancerous cells in the body. It might also help fight with breast cancer and colorectal cancer. The American practitioner, Cayce suggested the implementation of almond oil in the staple diet as it benefits people with colon cancer. Almond oil may also have free-radical scavenging activity that might help in cancer. More clinical studies may ascertain the benefits of almond oil for alleviating cancer in humans. 

5. Potential Uses of Almond Oil for Brain Health

Almond oil may be used as a massage oil during aromatherapy. It may show a positive outcome on the quality of life of patients. According to Moradi et al., 2020,  almond oil may help reduce stress, depression, anxiety and fatigue, as well as it may improve the sleep quality of an individual. Almond oil may be enriched with omega-3 fatty acids to help enhance memory functions^1,4. However, more studies are needed to develop the benefits of almond oil for brain health. If you have any brain-related symptoms, take a medical consultation for an adequate line of treatment. 

6. Other Potential Uses of Almond Oil

• Medical devices such as oxygen masks may cause pressure injuries on the face. If you apply almond oil on the face, it may help decrease the risk of developing such injuries⁴.
• Almond oil might be effective against fungal infections and athlete’s foot¹.
• It may have essential nutrients such as vitamins K and E that might help boost the immunity of the body¹.
• It may have anti-inflammatory and free radical-fighting properties, which may help maintain liver health¹.
• Almond oil may be used for a foot massage¹.
• It may help reduce fatigue and increase the life quality of haemodialysis patients⁴. 
• The benefits of almond oil for the skin may be related to reducing acne. Almond oil’s vitamins and anti-antibacterial activity might benefit acne-causing bacteria¹.

Though studies show the potential uses of almond oil in various conditions, these are insufficient, and there is a necessity for further studies to develop the scope of the benefits of almond oil on human health. Additionally, each person may respond differently to these herbs. It is essential to have a doctor’s advice before using almond oil for any medical condition. 

I recently read an article suggesting that owing to the presence of several phytochemicals, including phytosterol, flavonoids, and polyphenols of phenolic acids, almond oil has shown to have antimutagenic and anticarcinogenic properties. This property may help with cancer⁶.

Dr. Rajeev Singh, BAMS

How to Use Almond Oil?

You may use almond oil as listed below: 

• It may be used as a flavouring in foods. 
• It may be used to manufacture medicines. 
• It may be used as a cooking oil.
• It may be used to make almond butter and salad dressings^1,4.

You should consult a qualified doctor before having almond oil in large quantities. Do not discontinue or replace an ongoing modern medical treatment with an Ayurvedic/herbal preparation of almond oil without consulting an Ayurvedic physician. They will guide you with its best form and dosage per your health condition. 

If you have a blocked ear canal due to earwax that doesn’t fall out on its own, I might suggest you try almond oil. Put 2 to 3 drops of almond oil in your ear 3 to 4 times a day for 3 to 5 days. However, it’s important to consult a doctor before trying this on your own⁷.

Dr. Smita Barode, B.A.M.S, M.S.

Side Effects of Almond Oil

Despite the advantages of almond oil, it may cause certain side effects. Given below are a few side effects of almond oil: 

• Bitter almond is a variety of almond which may contain cyanides. Excess ingestion or inhalation of bitter almond oil may cause cyanide poisoning³.
• Almond allergies may be seen in infants, which may cause dermatitis on topical use. 
• As per the study⁴ by Cuzzolin et al. done in 2010,  it was found that almond oil may cause rashes and itching after application or consumption in pregnant women. If you witness any side effects, you must consult a doctor and get the proper treatment for your side effects. 

Precautions to Take with Almond Oil

Having almond oil in controlled quantities might be safe. However, its consumption in larger amounts may cause harm. Therefore, it’s mandatory to keep the following precautions in mind:  

• Pregnant and breastfeeding women must take precautions while having almond oil, as it might create complications in pregnancy. Topical application may also lead to skin rashes. In the case of an adverse reaction, it’s recommended that you consult a professional for their opinion. 
• Almond is a nut and it may cause allergies. Therefore, you must take precautions while giving almond oil to children and the elderly, as they might develop an allergic reaction after its application³.
• You should not use almond oil on your own to self-medicate. It is crucial to take the advice of a doctor and have it only as and when recommended. 

Also Read: 7 Incredible Benefits Of Chia Seed Oil

Interactions with Other Drugs

More clinical research is required to know the interactions of almond oil with other drugs. Therefore, people should take medical advice from an Ayurvedic doctor. They will guide you toward the best way to have almond oil.

Also Read: Walnut Oil: Uses, Benefits, Side Effects By Dr. Smita Barode

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

References

1. ​​Chimezie Akubude-, Egwuonwu C, Ajala O, Akubude, Olaniyan A, Ajala E, et al. Almond oil: powerhouse of nutrients Soil use patterns in Nigeria View project Biodiesel Project View project Almond oil: powerhouse of nutrients. CIGR. 2020;22(3):190–201. Available from: https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Vivian-Akubude-Usha/publication/345311256_Almond_oil_powerhouse_of_nutrients/links/5fa2c3aaa6fdcc06241253a8/Almond-oil-powerhouse-of-nutrients.pdf 
2. Ahmad Z. The uses and properties of almond oil. Complement Ther Clin Pract. 2010;16(1):10–2. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20129403/ 
3. FoodData Central | Oil, almond [Internet]. U.S. Department of Agriculture. 2018 [cited 2022 Nov 30]. Available from: https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/fdc-app.html#/food-details/171031/nutrients 
4. Ouzir M, Bernoussi S el, Tabyaoui M, Taghzouti K. Almond oil: A comprehensive review of chemical composition, extraction methods, preservation conditions, potential health benefits, and safety. Compr Rev Food Sci Food Saf. 2021;20(4):3344–87. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34056853/ 
5. Ahmad Z. The uses and properties of almond oil. Complement Ther Clin Pract. 2010 Feb;16(1):10-2. doi: 10.1016/j.ctcp.2009.06.015. Epub 2009 Jul 15. PMID: 20129403. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20129403/
6. Mysore V, Arghya A. Hair Oils: Indigenous Knowledge Revisited. Int J Trichology. 2022 May-Jun;14(3):84-90. doi: 10.4103/ijt.ijt_189_20. Epub 2022 May 24. PMID: 35755964; PMCID: PMC9231528. Available from: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9231528/
7. NHS. Earwax build-up [Internet]. NHS; 2024 Jan 05 [cited 2026 Feb 17]. Available from: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/earwax-build-up/

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