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While sunflower seeds have long been a healthy-snacking staple, sunflower oil has become increasingly popular for use in cooking as well as in dietary supplements and beauty products. Since many creams and other massage topical products contain this oil, it makes sense for massage therapists to learn about its benefits.

Historical Use of Sunflowers

According to the National Sunflower Association, sunflowers can be traced back as far as 3000 B.C. to Arizona and New Mexico, where Native Americans cultivated the delicate, yellow-orange, thistle-like plants, grinding the seeds into flour for cakes and breads or mixing them with vegetables. Native Americans also used the oil on skin and hair.

Spanish explorers brought the plant to Europe in the late 16 th century, and in 1716 English scientists received a patent to extract oil from sunflower seeds. The plant then made its way into Russia, where the seeds were improved and sunflowers exported back to the U.S.

The association further reports that this vibrant, strong plant today has become " a valued and healthy vegetable oil." Additionally, its seeds have become a popular snack food and add nutritional value to recipes.

Sunflower Science

What makes sunflower oil so appealing? Botanical Online reports that sunflower oil contains omega-3 (linoleic acid) and omega-6 and, after wheat germ oil, is the richest oil in vitamin E. Its chemical composition makes it an ideal moisturizer and antioxidant.

Research supports these statements. An article published in the Journal of Oleo Science found that organic compounds called tocopherols, found in plants such as sunflowers, are a good source of essential fatty acids. The authors of the study added that tocopherols contain a significant amount of natural antioxidants and have shown antimicrobial activity.

Sunflowers and Skin

Amanda Holdredge, medical esthetician for Island Medical Spa in Hilton Head, South Carolina, has firsthand experience with sunflower oil. Its high levels of linoleic acid, she said, provide a cleansing effect and help stimulate cellular turnover in skin, which makes it a popular ingredient in skin and beauty products.

Holdredge's spa uses a pre-cleansing treatment that contains safflower oil for almost every client. "It creates an immediate hydrated, healthy look for our clients, which they very much enjoy," she said.

Sunflower oil can also benefit hair, Holdredge added. "Massaging safflower oil into the hair and scalp comes with benefits like hair follicle growth and strengthening and more circulation."

Sunflower Oil in Massage Products

Jean Shea, president of BIOTONE, which manufactures massage-and-spa oils, lotions and other topical products, said that sunflower oil is used in massage oil to add a source of rich hydration to a blend, and that it "helps maintain smooth, moist skin."

While sunflower oil is found in many massage topical products, Holdredge warned that it can be a potentially dangerous ingredient for clients with allergies or hypersensitivities.

"Clients who possess an allergy or skin hypersensitivity to plants of the Asteraceae or Compositae family, such as daisy, ragweed, marigold or chrysanthemum, may experience allergic reactions," she said. As with any topical, caution should also be exercised when using sunflower oil-infused products with pregnant women.

About the Author

Phyllis Hanlon has written nonfiction articles and book reviews as well as human-interest stories, profiles and award-winning essays. Her specialty areas include health and medicine, religion, education and business. She regularly delights in the joys of massage. She has written many articles for MASSAGE Magazine, including " Boost Massage Sessions with a Burst of Lemon."

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The Big, Beautiful Benefits of Sunflower Oil

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While sunflower seeds have long been a healthy-snacking staple, sunflower oil has become increasingly popular for use in cooking as well as in dietary supplements and beauty products. Since many creams and other massage topical products contain this oil, it makes sense for massage therapists to learn about its benefits.

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A general overview of massage mediums, the different types available and which type of massage suit them best.

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Massage oil is an oil that is suitable for body massage. Now, massage can be done for various reasons and it is of many types. Different oils are suitable for different kinds of massage. Here we explore the "massage worthy" nature of carrier oils and even some essential oils. Massage has immense therapeutic value. To obtain the maximum benefits from a massage, the most suitable oil should be chosen for that purpose. The most common oils used for massage are olive oil and sweet almond oil. But, there are many more options.

(Photo credit : katie jones)

A massage oil should have certain properties which make it suitable to be used during a massage. Some of these requirements should be met absolutely, while others may be relaxed upon.

Density - A massage oil should not be very dense. It should be pure and generally filtered.

Viscosity - The oil should have low viscosity. That means the massage oil should flow easily on the skin. It should not be sticky, like honey or sugar syrup. When you apply the oil, it should move along with the hand.

Absorb in a reasonable time - the massage oil should be absorbed into the skin, but not too quickly. You would want the oil to stay there while massage continues, and only get absorbed afterwards.

Not too drying - Some oils, like hemp oil can exert a drying effect. They dry out much quicker than other oils, and may make the skin feel a tad bit dry. This is desirable in some cases, but not in most types of massage.

Odor - Oils with unpleasant odor are generally avoided in massage, unless absolutely needed.To mask the unpleasant odor of an otherwise nutritionally good oil, fragrant essential oils can be added to it.

Moisturization - how well does the oil seal moisture inside the skin. Oils that moisturize better keep skin hydrated and smooth for longer periods of time.

Purity of the Oil - the quality and purity of an oil also matter. In general, filtered oils feel better to the touch, as they are more refined. Unrefined oils obtained directly from the cold press may feel a little greasy, which is avoided in a massage oil, unless there are other reasons to use it.

(Photo credit : good-karma )

Other things to consider when deciding a massage oil are its cost and side effects. Typically, one needs about 30 ml of oil for a full body massage. So, the cost factor too comes into play. If the oil has strong side effects, then a full body massage with that oil can expose the skin to large amounts of oil, which might be harmful.

What is the Purpose of a Massage Oil
Frankly speaking, a massage can be done without an oil. But, that becomes quite cumbersome. Massage oil is needed to reduce friction between the hands and skin. So, whether it is a regular massage, or a deep tissue massage, or a chiropractic massage, including an oil in the session really enhances the benefits of that massage.

Massage Oils
These are the most well known and widely use massage oil all over the world. You can choose from one of them.

(Photo credit : cottonseedoiltour )

1. Sweet Almond Oil
This sweet and mildly fragrant oil comes from sweet almonds. It is the most popular massage oil. Sweet almond oil has just the perfect attributes that a massage oil should have. It flows well on the skin, doesn't get absorbed too quickly and maintains its oiliness for a long time. It is thin and light.
The best thing about this oil is that your hands will love it. The person who performs the massage knows how important it is for the oil to glide smoothly between the hands and skin.

2. Olive Oil
This is most well known oil for infant massage. But, one can use it on adults too. Olive oil is a nice massage oil which tends to improve skin's elasticity and strengthens it.
Olibe oil has been used in the Mediterranean since ancient times, for young and old alike. Regular massage with olive oil can keep the skin looking younger and glossier.
Olive oil tends to make the skin look a bit tanned for some time.

3. Coconut Oil
Coconut oil is an absolute favorite oil for many people. And it is brilliant for massage. Regular coconut oil solidifies in cold weather. But, one can heat it up and apply on the skin. It is colorless, very light and absorbs brilliantly into the skin. It is very popular in coastal tropical regions.

Coconut oil is very good for people with back acne. It helps in preventing the breakouts and doesn't block skin pores.

4. Grapeseed Oil
Although a little more expensive than other oils, grapeseed oil makes for a good masage oil. It is very light and thin. It feels glossy, almost silky to the skin. This rich feeling is quite different from other massage oils. Grapeseed oil is also very nutritious, as it contains high amounts of linoleic acid.

If you need to prepare infused oils, like rosemary infused massage oil, then grapeseed oil is the carrier of choice. It absorbs herbs and their nutrients very well and acts as a vector for trasnporting them through the skin.

5. Sesame Oil
The oil obtained from sesame seeds is highly prized in Aurveda. According to Charak Samhita, one of the most ancient Ayurvedic texts, sesame oil is the best oil for human body. It has got great nutritional value and is good for strengtehning the body's structure, that is the tendons, ligaments and muscles.
Ayurveda recommends daily massage with sesame oil, a process called Abhyanga. It is a superficial massage done with warm oil.

6. Jojoba Oil
It is really haven for people with skin problems and acne breakouts. Jojoba oil resembles the human sebum ( body's natural oil ). As a result, it is less oily. It is not that excellent for massage, but great for people with acne problems. It is not at all comedogenic, therefore poses no risk of clogged skin pores.

7. Apricot Kernel Oil
Very similar to almond oil in properties, but it is costlier.

8. Sunflower Oil
Its a rather inexpensive oil which can be used for body massage. It flows well on the skin, is moderately thick. It is good for generating traction with hands, which is ideal for chiropractic massage.

9. Wheat Germ Oil
The oil of wheat germ is very thick and viscous. It is not conducive to massage. But adding some coconut oil, or grapeseed oil makes it suitable for massage. Wheat germ oil is often used in conjunction with rose hip seed oil.

Wheat germ oil and rose hip seed oil forms a powerful antioxidant combination which protects the skin from all kinds of free radical damage. Wheat germ oil is the best source of Vitamin E on the planet, among oils.

10. Mustard Oil
This oil too can be used as massage oil. It is pungent and has sharp odor. It is quite popular in India.
Other Massage Oils To try
If you are a little more curious, try out these oils for the massage. They are also massage worthy.

11. Avocado Oil
It is a thick oil which is yellowish in color. A special extra virgin oil from a special cultivar of Avocado oil, called Hass, is bright green in color. This oil is rich in chlorophyll and carotenoid pigments. Avocado oil is great for face massage and in hot oil treatments.

12. Kukui Nut Oil
This oil obtained from the Kukui Nut tree which is the national tree of Hawaii. Kukui nut oil, also Candlenut oil is a light, amber colored oil with excellent emollient ( mositurizer ) properties.

(Photo credit : shardayyy )

History Of Massage
It comes as no surprise that massage has been practised even before the time of ancient civilizations. There are evidences of massage activity being performed in most major civilizations , like the Chinese , Indus Valley Civilization, Mesopotamian civilization, Ancient Egyptian and Greek civilizations. Earliest reference to massage is found in the tomb of Akmanthor, who was an physician in Ancient Egypt. This was around 2330 BC. It is quite possible that massage has been integral part of our health care system since the most ancient times.

(Photo credit : Wikipedia )

The Ancient Chinese really mastered the art of massage. There are numerous volumes of texts just on the art and technique of massage in China, and they are integrated with the pressure point ( meridian ) notation of Acupressure and Acupuncture.

About that time in India, Ayurveda was well developed. Massage was stressed as a daily activity. It was also used in various meical treatments. many skin diseases were treated by massaging the body and keeping the person on a restricted diet,as mentioned in Charak Samhita and Susruta Samhita.
Massage Oils For Special Massage Procedures
There are actually hundreds of massage procedures all over the world. These procedures may require a special massage oil to carry the therapeutic effect.

Acupressure - Lavender oil is used in carrier oil, or neat to massage acupressure points in massage.

Anma massage - Japanese massage technique which does not require any oil.

Balinese massage - exotic essential oils, like

So, you can see the diversity of massage oils used in special Massage techniques. These are the oils that are best suited, not that they have to be compulsorily as mentioned. The idea is to use an oil which is conducive and supportive to the mode of massage. That is why many massage forms do not use any oil.

Who should not use Massage Oils
Although it is generally safe and pretty harmless, massage done with a massage oil can prove to be risky for these people.

Heart disease - people with heart disease and cardiovascular problems should avoid oil massages as they are high in fats.

Kidney failure - people on dialysis should not go for an oil based massage.

Cancer - If you are suffering from cancer, avoid such sessions as they may damage the fragile tissues around the cancerous tissue.

Bleeding disorders - many oils have anticoagulant properties. People who are at risk of abnormal bleeding due to a disorder should strictly avoid such massage, unless the oil doesn't have any anti-coagulant properties.

How to make your own herbal Massage Oils At home ?
You can also make your personal aromatherapy massage oil at home. It is simple and so easy, anyone can do it. The only thing that is needed is a basic knowledge of essential oils, carrier oils and what kind of aromatherapy oil you intend to make. Is the oil going to be used for mental exhaustion or for relieving physical stress.

Here is the procedure for making a massage oil at home.

Carrier Oil - 4 ounces

Essential Oil - 4 - 15 drops per essential oil. Strong essential oils, like eucalypus need just a few drops. Less strong oils can be added in slight moderation.

If you do not have essential oil, then you can use direct herb. Like for preparing rosemary infused massage oil.

Take 4 oz of a carrier in glass bottle

Add your chopped herb or ground spices to this oil

Let it sit in the sun for 1 day

Your herb infused oil is ready. Avoid using carrier oil that goes rancid when placed in sun. Oils like coconut are stable in sunlight.
References
1. Massage - University of Maryland Medical Center
2. The effectiveness of relaxation acupoint stimulation and acupressure with aromatic lavender essential oil for non-specific low back pain in Hong Kong: a randomised controlled trial. Yip YB, Tse SH.

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Massage oil is an oil that is suitable for body massage. Now, massage can be done for various reasons and it is of many types. Different oils are suitable for different kinds of massage. Here we explore the "massage worthy" nature of carrier oils and even some essential oils.

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Jojoba oil benefits include it's wonderful ability to make your skin free refreshed and replenished, without leaving it feeling oily. It is widely considered one of the best massage oils for any type of bodywork.

It has anti-fungal, anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory, and anti-oxidant properties to help protect and renew dry, inflamed, acne-prone skin as well as improve the look, feel, and health of dry, damaged, and thinning hair.

With all the different types of massage oils used today, this oil far outweighs the rest. It is considered one of the best massage oils with professional massage practitioners because of it's organic qualities and benefits to the client's skin.

Most massage oils leave you feeling greasy and uncomfortable after the massage session and may even cause allergic reactions. Also, some oils oxidize easy and start to smell rancid soon after use.

Jojoba oil does neither!

Overall, the best massage oils that do the best job for most techniques of massage therapy are 100% Pure, Natural Jojoba Oils.

Why:

Great absorption! - Jojoba oil absorbs slowly into the skin, giving you workability on the client's skin for a long period of time. This keep the therapist from having to continually apply more oil. Out of the many jojoba oil benefits...this is the best!

Healing properties - This oil will leave the skin feeling refreshed after massage. It not only soothes away muscle aches and pains, but it will speed heeling of scars or abrasions on the skin, making it more comfortable and easier to move freely.

Lighter on the skin - Jojoba oil is non-greasy and feels light on the skin. It's natural feel allows the therapist to apply and massage easily.

Mineral-rich - Organic jojoba oil is very high in Vitamin E compared to most massage oils and is a natural antioxidant. This vitamin and other minerals in the oil keep the skin free of infection and break-outs. It also contains oleic acid, which is an essential acid for healthy-looking skin.

Long shelf life - Jojoba oil lasts forever and is a great choice for therapists who only work part-time and use their oil slowly. It is one of the most versatile oils because it rarely oxidizes.

Safe - Because jojoba oil is hypoallergenic, it won't cause allergic reactions, even with the most sensitive skin types. This makes it very popular with massage therapists who do not want to take chances with oils derived from nuts on sensitive clients.

Price - The price is also relatively expensive compared to many massage oils, however, consider the fact that you will only be using a small portion, compared to the amount you use with other oils.

Great for Acne - Whether you or a client has facial or back acne, jojoba oil is the perfect solution, as it is non-comedogenic. This means it won't clog pores.

It is suggested that jojoba oil actually "tricks" the skin into thinking that the production of sebum is not needed because it so closely resembles sebum, which means that jojoba oil can actually assist in breaking down sebum in clogged pores.

So, with these wonderful benefits for your skin and your client's skin, you can understand why it is one of the most popular and healthiest choices for massage oils.

The jojoba bean originates from harsh deserts, and is known as one of nature's best massage therapy products.

The oil derived from this bean has been used for centuries to moisturize the scalp, skin, and nails. Known as "liquid gold" in many countries, it can penetrate deep into skin, to leave it feeling soft, but not greasy.

Jojoba also controls the production of oil, in the scalp (as well as on the face) and helps common hair problems such as dry and split ends.

Other Uses and Jojoba Oil Benefits:

1. Natural makeup Remover

2. Natural Moisturizer for the entire body

3. Conditioner for hair - repairs split ends too

4. Cuticle Oil

5. Scalp moisturizer

6. Bath oil to soften skin

7. Aftershave moisturizer

Cococare Jojoba Oil 100% Pure is one of the best massage oils to use in massage therapy...as a carrier oil for adding essential oils, or for use alone as your primary massage oil.

Although there are many jojoba oil benefits, the greatest is the way it feels on the skin, whether you are a client of a massage therapist or using it at home for your own health and healing.

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Jojoba Oil Benefits - more than just for skin!

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Jojoba oil benefits include it's wonderful ability to make your skin free refreshed and replenished, without leaving it feeling oily. It is widely considered one of the best massage oils for any type of bodywork.

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The benefits of grapeseed oil include it's high antioxidant properties that are healthy for your skin, hair and food preparation recipes. Grapeseed oil is one of the best massage oils as it can be used for most massage therapy techniques.

Grapeseed oil antioxidants are called pro-cyanidolic oligomers (PCO's). They are known for their ability to help increase intracellular vitamin C levels, decrease capillary breakdown, and bind collagen structures together to protect them from bacteria and disease.

The seeds inside the grapes contain most of these antioxidant ingredients, many of which are also found in green tea, black tea, red wine and berries.

Grape seed oil is processed by cold-pressing the grape seeds, after the grape itself has been used to make wine. It is often found in many facial/skincare care products and is known for its anti-aging benefits to the skin.

Because it is so rich in vitamins, minerals and protein, it can be found in soaps, shampoos, conditioners, cosmetics, facial moisturizers, body lotions, and bath oils.

Grapeseed oil also contains polyphenols, which are also antioxidants. Polyphenols have been proven to help slow the process of aging, and, because it is a natural anti-inflammatory, can help clear acne.

Few massage oils actually help "prevent" clogged pores and skin break-outs, but grape seed oil contains a high amount of linoleic acid, an essential fatty acid, which is really good for oily skin.

Grapeseed is one of the best massage oils because it has an exceptionally smooth glide and easy absorption into the client's skin, as well as being a great oil for hot stone massage, facial massage, and deep tissue with shaped stones.

Read more about the benefits of using basalt stones in massage.

Grapeseed actually has the ability to lock in moisture, which leaves your client's skin feeling very smooth, without the greasy feeling.

The benefits of grapeseed oil include:

Easy absorbtion into the skin

Ability to fight free radicals

Ability to stop enzymes from destroying needed collagen

Maintains elastin and other connective tissue proteins that support organs, such as our skin

Helps prevent fine lines and wrinkles, caused by the loss of collagen and elastin

Make sure you choose an organic, cold pressed 100% pure Grapeseed Oil for massage therapy and as a skin moisturizer.

There are a number of different brands of grapeseed oils, however the more natural the oil, the more health benefits for you and your clients.

Grape seed extract is also being taken by many people as a supplement, as it contains high amounts of Vitamin E and Vitamin C, which are often very needed by our bodies.

Grapeseed Oil is now being used for cooking as it is cholesterol free, and can help lower bad cholesterol lipoproteins (LDL), and increase good cholesterol lipoproteins (HDL).

This oil is often used as a carrier oil in massage oil recipe blends, with essential oils added to make customized blends according to the physical need of the person receiving massage.

This is one of the massage video clips that demonstrates how grapeseed oil is often blended in a massage oil recipe.

Although Grapeseed oil is still used mainly as a massage oil, the benefits of grapeseed oil are now being recognized for their wonderful anti-aging ingredients.

Pure Pro Grapeseed Massage Oil is one of the best massage oils you can buy for bodywork therapies. It is a thin, yet, a very "easy-to-work-with" oil that penetrates deeply into the skin to offer long-lasting moisture.

Popular in many European countries, this oil continues to grow in use around the world for it's luxurious feel in many massage techniques.

It's creamy texture gives it a workable glide on the skin, but it is lighter than most other oils. Grapeseed is the perfect carrier oil for essential oils, and provides a safe, nut-free oil for your clients.

To find more on the benefits of Grapessed Oil, please visit Detox for Life at http://www.detox-for-life.com/grape-seed-oil-benefits.html

Whether used for Pregnancy Massage, Swedish massage, or as a carrier oil, the benefits of grapeseed oil can be felt by everyone that you massage.

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The benefits of grapeseed oil include it's high antioxidant properties that are healthy for your skin, hair and food preparation recipes. Grapeseed oil is one of the best massage oils as it can be used for most massage therapy techniques. Grapeseed oil antioxidants are called pro-cyanidolic oligomers (PCO's).

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Almond oil had been used extensively for its health benefits and as a beauty aid much before science caught up with the goodness of this seed oil. Very popular in Southeast Asia and in the Mediterranean region where the Almond tree was first domesticated, the almond kernels and the nutty oil extracted from them were credited with promoting heart and skin health.

Now we know that the oil is rich in Vitamin E, monounsaturated fatty acids, proteins, potassium and zinc, besides a number of other minerals and vitamins, which explains why it is so good for our heart, skin and hair.

Almond oil comes in two variants; bitter and sweet. The bitter almond oil is extracted from the bitter almonds that contain a glycoside called amygdalin which turns into toxic hydrocyanic acid on processing. Most almond trees growing in the wild produce bitter almonds that have varying degrees of this glycoside. They can have fatal consequences if ingested. Bitter almond oil does have some medicinal properties, and may be pretty safe for external application, but is better avoided due to the high risk of poisoning.

The sweet almond oil that comes exclusively from edible almonds (Prunus amygdalus var. dulcis) selectively cultivated for their sweet taste. It is the oil popularly used for skin and hair care. It has many culinary uses too. Let's see how we can use this wonderful gift of nature to enhance our health and beauty.

Want to try sweet almond oil for yourself? Pick up a bottle from this page on Amazon.

12 Reasons To Start Using Sweet Almond Oil For Hair & Skin

1. For Smooth, Flawless Skin

Almond oil is a mild, hypoallergenic oil that can be safely used even on baby skin. In fact, it is the best massage oil for infants. When gently rubbed into the skin, it gets fully absorbed, making it suitable for after bath application. To enhance absorption, warm the oil to body temperature before application. This natural oil has a slightly nutty smell, which most people find pleasant, but you can mix in a few drops of lavender oil, or any other fragrant essential oil of your choice, to personalize it.

Many synthetic and natural skin care products claim that their effectiveness comes from the Vitamin E added to them. Almond oil is naturally endowed with this highly potent antioxidant vitamin. Regular application of the oil can protect your skin from oxidative stress and UV radiation damage, keeping it soft and supple.

2. For Deep Cleansing Of Skin

Almond oil is light in texture, and can easily penetrate deep into the skin, softening and dislodging the dirt and debris accumulated in the skin pores and hair follicles. This prevents blackheads and acne. Thanks to the Vitamin A content in the oil, it may even help reduce acne flare-ups.

Almond oil can be safely used on sensitive skin as it is less likely to cause allergic reactions. It is excellent for removing makeup even from the tender area around the eyes. Dip a ball of cotton in the oil and apply it on the face. Allow to remain for 2 minutes and then gently wipe it off with a fresh piece of cotton.

It is easy to make a natural facial scrub with almond oil and fine sugar. Mix them together and apply on the face, working in circles to gently lift off grime and dead cells. Wash it off with water. Repeat it every week for beautiful, radiant skin.

3. To Remove Dark Circles & Tan

If you have dark circles and bags under your eyes, almond oil can come to your aid. Apply the oil every night before going to bed. You will see a noticeable difference in about two weeks.

Sun exposure can inflame the skin and cause pain and redness. Apply almond oil over these patches for quick relief. An unwanted tan can also be lightened with the oil. Mix one teaspoon of honey with a few drops each of lemon juice and almond oil. Rub it in with the fingers and leave it on for an hour. Wash it off with plain water.

4. To Relieve Eczema & Psoriasis

These problems are caused by the body's own reactions to external and internal triggers, but they can leave the skin of the affected areas dry and itchy. Scratching can make matters worse. When the skin is broken, it starts to weep and make crusty deposits. It also makes way for bacterial and fungal infections that can complicate the management of these chronic conditions.

The least we can do is keep the affected skin soft and hydrated to reduce itching. Almond oil helps with this. Being a mild, hypoallergenic oil, it moisturizes the skin without irritating it further.

Use the oil on its own or mix with other essential oils for better results. For example, jojoba oil is a liquid wax that can form a long-lasting protective layer over the damaged skin. It prevents moisture loss and the entry of allergens and microbes. But Jojoba oil is a strong oil that can potentially irritate sensitive skin. It is better tolerated when diluted with almond oil.
Recommended Reading: 12 Reasons You Should Be Using Jojoba Oil On Your Hair & Skin Daily
5. To Treat Skin Rashes

Skin rashes are very common in the nappy area of young kids wearing diapers. In adults too, skin may become inflamed from constant rubbing against hard materials, including underwear. Skin to skin friction also can result in chafed skin. This type of contact dermatitis can result in soreness and burning sensation. Doctors usually prescribe zinc-based ointments to reduce the inflammation.

Almond oil is a better alternative to these creams. For one thing, you don't have to worry about the chemical substances contained in commercial products irritating the skin further. Also, almond oil with its rich store of zinc is as good as any store-bought creams or lotions available.

Application is simple enough. Just dip three fingers in the oil and gently dab the oil on the affected area. Leave it on until all the oil is gradually absorbed into the skin. You can safely use almond oil on chafed skin anywhere on the body, even on baby skin, as long as you don't have a specific allergy to this oil.

6. To Reduce Fine Lines & Other Signs Of Aging

Smooth, supple skin is a sign of youthfulness, but a structural protein called collagen is behind this flawless look. Collagen forms an even layer under the skin and acts as a good padding that keeps the skin taut, yet supple. Fine wrinkles start to appear as we age because of thinning of the skin and unevenness in the collagen padding underneath.

It is an inevitable part of the natural aging process, but premature aging can result from excess exposure to sun, tobacco smoke, and dehydration. With proper protective measure and skin care, the aging process can be slowed down to some extent. Almond oil has a role to play here.

Oxidative stress is one main reason for the deterioration of collagen layer. Almond oil contains Vitamin E, which is one of the most potent antioxidants known. It can help repair some of the damage done to the collagen layer. The oil is especially rich in proteins, and can provide the amino acids required for the formation of collagen. External application of the oil can prevent dehydration by reducing moisture loss from the skin.

7. For Muscle Aches & Fatigue

Relieving muscle pains and soreness is one of the main traditional uses of bitter almond oil. The same benefits can be obtained from sweet almond oil, but without the poisoning risk associated with the former. Massage this protein-rich oil into tired muscles to rejuvenate them. Aromatherapy uses almond oil to relax knotty muscles.

For best results, warm the almond oil over gentle heat until it becomes nearly unbearable to touch. Apply this hot oil to the aching muscles and massage it in well. Wet a thick towel in hot water, wring it, and then use it to cover the massaged area. Leave it on for at least half an hour or as long as you can. This treatment relieves muscle fatigue by drawing out toxins.
Recommended Reading: How To Make Massage Oils + 9 Recipes
8. To Control Hair Loss

Every day we lose around a hundred hair strands, but it does not affect our total hair volume because of new hair growth that replaces the old. But if hair fall is heavier than normal, our scalp will show visible signs of thinning which can be very disturbing. Exposure to environmental pollutants, nutritional deficiencies, hormonal imbalance, and stress are main reasons for excessive hair loss.

Deficiency of magnesium and calcium in particular results in poor hair growth and hair loss. Zinc is another important mineral for healthy hair; its deficiency is known to cause alopecia, characterized by thinning of hair. Almond oil is rich in all of these minerals.

You need to use almond oil on a regular basis to control hair loss. Warm one tablespoon of oil and apply it to the scalp every night after your shower or bath. Rub it in gently until most of the oil is absorbed into the scalp. Leave it on overnight for best results. Eating a few almonds every day or mixing in a few drops of almond oil into your salad or smoothie will work from the inside to make your hair healthy.
Recommended Reading: 7 Natural Oils For Healthy, Beautiful Hair
9. For Long Shiny Hair

Not only the scalp, but the hair shaft also can benefit from almond oil. The glands in the scalp produce an oily substance that forms a natural protective coating on each strand of hair. But hair can become too dry and brittle from frequent use of shampoos that strip the hair of these natural oils. This results in breakages and split ends that reduce the length of the hair.

Restore the protective oil layer by applying almond oil to your hair right after washing it with a gentle organic shampoo. First, dry the hair with a towel to remove excess moisture. Rub the oil between your palms and run your hand through the entire length of the hair to coat every strand evenly. Leave the hair to air dry naturally, combing occasionally with a wide-toothed comb to separate the strands. This treatment gives hair a nice sheen, besides making it manageable and tangle-free.

10. For Healthy Nails

If your nails are thin and chip off easily, it indicates mineral insufficiency. What you need is a regular almond oil treatment. This oil is rich in zinc, the deficiency which causes brittle nails and white spots. The oil also contains appreciable amounts of B-complex vitamins and iron that also help improve nail health.

Apply a drop of warm oil on the nail and rub it into the cuticle. If you can't find the time to do it every day, make it a weekly habit in order to grow thicker, smoother nails.
Recommended Reading: 15 Home Remedies For The Healthiest Nails You'll Ever Experience
11. For Heart Health

According to the Doctrine of Signatures, the shape of a food determines which part of the body it would nourish. In the case of almonds, it is easy to see that it favors heart health. Theories apart, these nuts are full of heart healthy substances. People with heart problems are often advised to have a handful of raw almonds every day.

Almond oil is rich in a monounsaturated fatty acid called oleic acid that is considered good for the heart. A diet that contains high amounts of this omega-9 fatty acid is known to reduce blood pressure and increase the HDL cholesterol. Use almond oil in salad dressings to reap its heart health benefits.
Recommended Reading: 21 Foods That Help To Unclog Arteries
12. To Improve Memory & Cognition

It is a general practice in many Southeast Asian cultures to soak a few almonds in water overnight and drink the water and eat the softened almonds first thing in the morning. This is thought to increase brain power and improve memory. It is easy to see how these tasty nuts full of good fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals benefit the brain, but there's some definite evidence to show that almond oil can contribute to better overall neurologic function. Another good reason to have a handful daily!

Where To Buy Sweet Almond Oil

Be sure that you are purchasing high-quality organic sweet almond oil. Know your source and don't skimp on cheap oil or nuts. The higher the quality, the more benefits you will receive.

Now Foods Sweet Almond Oil is widely regarded as the best almond oil on the market. It is perfect for both skin and hair. You can purchase it from this page on Amazon. Alternatively, it is also available on Thrive Market from this page. Thrive Market is an online marketplace for healthy foods and natural health, beauty and home products - typically at 25-50% off.

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12 Remarkable Benefits Of Sweet Almond Oil For Beautiful Skin & Hair

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Almond oil had been used extensively for its health benefits and as a beauty aid much before science caught up with the goodness of this seed oil. Very popular in Southeast Asia and in the Mediterranean region where the Almond tree was first domesticated, the almond kernels and the nutty oil extracted from them were credited with promoting heart and skin health.