From sprinkling some on kheer to your mom asking you to eat soaked almonds every morning, everyone has had almonds in their lives at some point. These nuts are crunchy and are known to be beneficial for your health, memory, hair and skin. Let’s find out more about these easily available nuts in India.
What Are Almonds?
Almonds are essentially seeds that grow on almond trees. Most of these trees have their origin in the Middle East and South Asia. Almonds contain several nutrients, good fat, and vitamins to boost your overall health. These are also known as badam in India.
They can be consumed with skin or without skin. The nut has a buttery taste and can be eaten raw or roasted. There are several other forms of almonds available, such as milk, oil or butter.
Nutritional Value of Almonds
For those wondering is badam good for health, almonds are also called a superfood and are one of the healthiest nuts to snack on. They have high niacin, calcium, vitamin E, fibre and riboflavin content. These small nuts are also packed with a good amount of omega-6 fatty acids, potassium, magnesium, omega-3 and zinc.
This little nut is a punch of monounsaturated fats, fibre, plant-based proteins and important nutrients such as vitamin E. Hence, almonds can improve skin and hair health and control cholesterol levels, inflammation, and heart health.
Almond Benefits for Skin
Almonds have several benefits for the skin. These nuts are filled with Vitamin E and antioxidants that can bring several benefits to your skin.
1. Removes Dead Skin
Almonds can be used as an exfoliator that helps the skin in getting rid of any impurities. It will remove dead cells from your skin. This will regenerate skin cells, thus brightening your skin.
Tip: Mix a spoonful of almond powder, honey, lemon juice along with some milk. Apply this mix on your face for a week for the best results.
2. Reduces Dark Circles
Almond, rich in Vitamin E, can make a visible difference in the appearance of dark circles. Vitamin E is known to fight UV ray damage, thus lightening the dark patches.
You can always eat soaked vitamins every morning to enjoy the systemic effects of almonds.
3. Improves Dried Skin
Linoleic acid, a fatty acid, is known to prevent skin dryness. Almonds are rich in linoleic acid. Therefore, regular consumption of almonds can help with skin dryness and healthy skin shedding and renewal.
4. Almond Oil for Skin Whitening
The vitamins play an essential role in keeping your skin clear, bright and smooth. Almonds also contain a healthy dose of Vitamin E and Vitamin A that is considered to be food for healthy skin. Almonds contain a punch of antioxidants that clean your skin and remove harmful radicals.
To use almond oil for skin lightening, mix two tablespoons of almond powder into a spoon of milk, oatmeal and lemon juice. Mix this well and put this concoction on your skin. Wait for 30 minutes and wash it later with lukewarm water for healthier skin.
5. Almond Oil Benefits for Skin
It is believed that almond oil has been used for ages as a part of the beauty regime. Evidence of queen Cleopatra from ancient Egyptian times has been found to use natural oils for her beauty. Further, in Chinese and Ayurvedic cultures, the oil has been found helpful in treating skin conditions like psoriasis and eczema. You can use almond oil to reduce rashes, burns or inflammation.
Massage your skin with almond oil will not only increase blood flow but provide natural hydration to you. It can also help you reduce stretch marks, lighten acne scars and decrease frown lines.
How to Use Almond Oil for Face
To answer the most commonly asked question, is almond oil good for face? Here are a few ways on how to use almond oil for face.
1. Makeup Remover
Almond oil is a great way to remove makeup from your face. This natural and chemical-free makeup remover will leave your face makeup-free.
2. Face Cleanser
Almond oil can carry other essential oils deep into the skin. You can mix essential oils such as tea tree oil, rosemary oil, lavender or lemon oil with almond oil.
Add a few drops of any essential oil you like and mix it with one ounce of almond oil. Mix it well and apply it to damp skin. Rinse with warm water and pat dry. You may have to rinse your face twice to remove any residue.
3. Massaging Oil
Massage your face with two to three drops of almond oil. Use an upward and circular motion to ensure that the oil seeps into your skin. Do this every day for two weeks to see visible results.
4. Mask
To make almond oil for face whitening mask, mix a tablespoon of almond powder with one egg white and some lemon juice. Mix this concoction well and apply it to your face for about 20 minutes. Wash your face with clean water and pat dry. Use this mix twice a week for maximum benefits.
How to Incorporate Almonds into Your Diet
Almonds are high in calories; hence it is essential to balance your overall calorie intake when adding almonds to your diet. Dieticians recommend eating six to eight almonds daily.
- It is good to eat raw almonds instead of consuming them fired or salted. Soak the almonds in water overnight and eat them in the morning.
- Use soaked chopped almonds to add nutrition to your shakes and smoothies.
- You can also incorporate almonds into the diet in the form of flour, butter, milk, roasted snacks and protein bars.
Summing Up on Almond Benefits for Skin
Almonds have essential nutrients that can lighten, brighten and hydrate your skin. There are numerous benefits of incorporating almonds into your diet or skin regimen. Even applying it in the form of oil can help with skin issues. However, if you have hypersensitive skin, it is best to consult a dermatologist before applying it externally.
FAQs
Can We Apply Almond on Face?
Yes, you can safely apply badam oil for skin whitening or nourishment. You can also leave it overnight, allowing almond oil to make your skin smoother and supple. Also, using almond oil as a cleanser or makeup remover is a great way to avoid chemicals.
How Many Almonds Should I Eat in a Day?
Studies show that soaking almonds overnight reduces a compound that releases phosphorus present in the nuts. This vital nutrient improves health and makes it easier to digest. You can eat four to six soaked almonds every day.
Benefits of Eating Almonds Daily
Eating almonds every day can boost your heart health, reduce cholesterol, combat inflammation and provide your skin with a necessary dose of Vitamin E. Another badam benefit for skin is that it treats dry skin and improves overall complexion while reducing the appearance of scars.
How Many Almonds Should I Eat for Good Skin?
The right amount of almonds that will benefit your health depends on your current calorie consumption and body specifications. Generally, it is safe to eat six to eight almonds daily.
Is 20 Almonds a Day Too Much?
Almonds contain important nutrients but are also calorie-dense. Eating twenty almonds daily can be more than the amount required by the body. It is not advisable to eat more than eight almonds daily. Consult a dietician for the best recommendation.
References
- Shivani Vandana Kumari, The Effect of Soaking Almonds and Hazelnuts on Phytate and Mineral Concentrations - https://ourarchive.otago.ac.nz/bitstream/handle/10523/7938/
- David P. Richardson, September 2009; The nutritional and health benefits of almonds: a healthy food choice - https://www.researchgate.net/publication/250058086
- Alison Kamil, July 2012; Health benefits of almonds beyond cholesterol reduction - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22296169/
