Sweet Almond Carrier Oil, Prunus Dulcis

Sweet almond carrier oil, prunus dulcis is extracted from the almond kernel and has soothing, sofening properties. Is popular throughout history and is suitable for babies. This is a classic quality carrier oil for the massage, Sweet Almond oil has long been valued for this purpose. It is non-irritating and so can be used on sensitive skin types. It gently lubricates and softens the skin and is said to give it elasticity, helping to prevent wrinkling. Sweet Almond oil is useful for all skin types, has no odour so does not detract from a blend of aromatic oils and is full of nutrients too. An effective moisturiser for dry skin.

A light-textured oil suitable for most skin types, especially dry, easily irritated complexions. Can be used as a pre-wash hair conditioner. Perfect as a carrier for essential oils.

Useful for: Nourishing, softening and revitalizing all skin types. Helps relieve itching, soreness, dryness, inflammation and wrinkled, dry hands. This is the best oil to use on children and babies.

How to use: As a daily moisturizer, apply sparingly to just-washed skin. Smooth in with a splash of cold water then blot with a tissue. For treating chapped hands, massage a little into your hands and nails at bedtime. Put on a pair of cotton gloves to aid penetration of the oil; by morning your hands will be silky smooth. As a body oil, massage into your skin after a bath or shower or before relaxing in a bath. Even after washing with soap your skin will feel moisturized. As a pre wash hair conditioner, massage the oil into your scalp and leave for about 30 minutes before shampooing.

The plant: The almond tree is indigenous to the Middle East, and is now cultivated in warm climates of the Mediterranean countries and also California. The almond tree has been cultivated for thousands of years, that grows to about 25 feet in height and bears pink blossom in the springtime and white flowers. The fruits are furry, with light green outer skins and look like small, green apricots.

Sweet Almond Carrier Oil therapeutic properties: An excellent emollient, nourishing to dry skin. Used to ease sunburn, irritation on baby's bottoms, beneficial in relieving the itching caused by eczema, psoriasis, and dry skin.

The oil: The oil is pale yellow in colour, slightly viscous and very oily.

Extraction method: The oil is obtained by cold pressing of the kernels, and the clarifying by filtration

Latin name: Prunus dulcis.

Family: Rosaceae.

Contains vitamins: A, B1, B2, B6 and E.

Odour: The Uurefined sweet almond has a delicate, sweet aroma and a flavour with a hint of marzipan. The refined sweet almond, used in aromatherapy has no odour.