Almond
Almond
Almond, also known as the “King of Nuts” is a highly nutritious food and are available in two varieties- sweet and the bitter. Sweet almonds are thin-skinned and are preferred over the bitter almonds due to the presence of prussic acid (hydrogen cyanide), a deadly poison in the latter variety. Bitter almonds are however used for other commercial purposes such as for making perfumes and cosmetics. Almond as a whole is healthy but soaked almonds are considered healthier. Almond has antioxidant and lipid-lowering properties and helps in managing high cholesterol levels and obesity[1][2].
What are the synonyms of Almond?
Prunus dulcis, Badam, Tapastaruvu, Kadubadami, Vadumai, Ketapag
What is the source of Almond?
Plant Based
Benefits of Almond
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.
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 ABC, Lymphomas, Urinary bladder cancer
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
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
FAQs about Almond benefits
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
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
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].
Ayurvedic View
Almond prevents cell damage and removes excessive dryness due to its Snigdha (oily) property. Almond oil also helps moisturize, nourish the skin and enhance the natural skin texture due to its Vata and Pitta pacifying and Kapha enhancing properties.
Tip:
1. Take 4-5 Almonds and soak them overnight.
2. Peel off the skin and eat them in the morning on an empty stomach.
3. Do it regularly to get a glowing skin.
Tip:
1. Take 4-5 Almonds and soak them overnight.
2. Peel off the skin and eat them in the morning on an empty stomach.
3. Do it regularly to get a glowing skin.
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].
Ayurvedic View
Increase in weight starts with diet and lifestyle disturbances that weaken the digestive fire and leads to an accumulation of Ama. This causes an imbalance in the Meda dhatu ultimately resulting in obesity. Almond helps to reduce weight as it improves your Pachak Agni (digestive fire) and removes Ama due to its Ushna (hot) property. Almond also gives a feeling of fullness and controls overeating due to its Guru (heavy) property.
Tip:
1. Take 4-5 Almonds and soak them overnight.
2. Peel off the skin and eat them in the morning on an empty stomach.
3. Continue to control weight gain.
Tip:
1. Take 4-5 Almonds and soak them overnight.
2. Peel off the skin and eat them in the morning on an empty stomach.
3. Continue to control weight gain.
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].
Ayurvedic View
Ayurveda says that the reason for hair fall is aggravated Vata dosha. Regular intake of Almond helps to control excessive hair fall due to its Vata balancing nature. Almond also helps to remove excessive dryness which is also a cause of hair fall due to its Snigdha (oily) property.
Tip:
1. Take 1/2-1 teaspoon Almond oil.
2. Mix with it one glass of milk.
3. Drink it after breakfast in the morning.
Tip:
1. Take 1/2-1 teaspoon Almond oil.
2. Mix with it one glass of milk.
3. Drink it after breakfast in the morning.
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].
Ayurvedic View
Almond helps to maintain a healthy gut as it improves the Pachak Agni (digestive fire) due to its Ushna (hot) potency. Almond also help loosen stool and correct constipation due to its Snigdha (oily) property.
Tip:
1. Take 4-5 Almonds and soak them overnight.
2. Peel off the skin and eat them in the morning on an empty stomach.
3. Do it regularly for a healthy digestive system.
Tip:
1. Take 4-5 Almonds and soak them overnight.
2. Peel off the skin and eat them in the morning on an empty stomach.
3. Do it regularly for a healthy digestive system.
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].
Ayurvedic View
Almond contains iron and helps to improve the level of hemoglobin. It gives strength and maintains proper functioning of the body because of its Balya (strength provider) property.
Tip:
1. Take 1/2-1 teaspoon of Almond oil.
2. Mix with it one glass of milk.
3. Have it at night before sleeping.
Tip:
1. Take 1/2-1 teaspoon of Almond oil.
2. Mix with it one glass of milk.
3. Have it at night before sleeping.
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].
Ayurvedic View
Sleeplessness and stress are the main causes of a weak memory or memory disorder. Almond is used as a brain tonic to improve concentration and enhance the memory due to its Vata balancing and Balya (strength provider) properties. Due to its Vata balancing property, it helps to reduce stress and get proper sleep. It also protects the brain cells from damage and helps to regain energy due to its Balya (strength provider) property.
Tip:
1. Take 4-5 Almonds and soak them overnight.
2. Peel off the skin and eat them in the morning on an empty stomach.
3. Continue on a regular basis for a better memory.
Tip:
1. Take 4-5 Almonds and soak them overnight.
2. Peel off the skin and eat them in the morning on an empty stomach.
3. Continue on a regular basis for a better memory.
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].
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
Tip:
1. Take 4-5 Almonds and soak them overnight.
2. Peel off the skin and eat them in the morning on an empty stomach.
Tip:
1. Take 4-5 Almonds and soak them overnight.
2. Peel off the skin and eat them in the morning on an empty stomach.
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].
Ayurvedic View
Almond oil helps to remove dark circles because of its moisturizing, lubricating, nourishing effects due to its Snigdha (oily) and Ropan (healing) properties. Regular application of Almond oil reduces dark circles and improves the complexion.
Tip:
1. Take 2-3 drops of Almond oil.
2. Gently massage on the skin just below the eyes in a circular motion using your fingertips.
3. Leave it overnight and rinse with warm water the next morning.
4. Use this remedy once a day preferably before going to sleep.
Tip:
1. Take 2-3 drops of Almond oil.
2. Gently massage on the skin just below the eyes in a circular motion using your fingertips.
3. Leave it overnight and rinse with warm water the next morning.
4. Use this remedy once a day preferably before going to sleep.
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].
Ayurvedic View
Almond oil is a good remedy for all types of skin problems like dry and irritating skin, skin rashes, and psoriasis. It has antioxidant, anti-aging, moisturizing, lubricating, nourishing, softening effects due to its Snigdha (oily) and Ropan (healing) properties.
Tips:
1. Take 2-3 drops of Almond oil.
2. Massage on your face and neck gently.
3. Leave it overnight and wash with warm water the next morning.
4. Use this remedy once a day.
Tips:
1. Take 2-3 drops of Almond oil.
2. Massage on your face and neck gently.
3. Leave it overnight and wash with warm water the next morning.
4. Use this remedy once a day.
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.
Ayurvedic View
Ayurveda says that the reason behind hair fall is aggravated Vata dosha in the body and Almond oil acts on hair fall by balancing Vata dosha. Regular massage of Almond oil increases the flow of the blood to the hair follicles, enhances the strength of the hair and promotes natural hair growth.
Tip:
1. Take 1/2 -1 teaspoon Almond oil.
2. Rub it gently and make sure it is absorbed by the scalp thoroughly.
3. It would be best to leave it on for about 15 to 25 minutes or overnight for maximum benefits.
Tip:
1. Take 1/2 -1 teaspoon Almond oil.
2. Rub it gently and make sure it is absorbed by the scalp thoroughly.
3. It would be best to leave it on for about 15 to 25 minutes or overnight for maximum benefits.
References
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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.