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Sweet Almond

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Sweet almond (Prunus amygdulus dulcis)

Background

The almond is closely related to the peach, apricot, and cherry (all classified as drupes). Unlike the others, however, the outer layer of the almond is not edible. The edible portion of the almond is the seed.

Sweet almonds are a popular nutritious food. Researchers are especially interested in their level of monounsaturated fats, as these appear to have a beneficial effect on blood lipids.

Almond oil is widely used in lotions and cosmetics.

Synonyms

Almendra, Almendra dulce, almond oil, amande, amande douce, amandel, amendoa, amendoa doce, amigdalo, Amygdalus communis, Amygdalus dulcis , badam, badami, badamo, badamshirin, bedamu, bian tao, bilati badam, cno ghreugach, expressed almond oil, fixed almond oil, harilik mandlipuu, Jordan almond, lawz, lozi, mandel, mandla, mandorla, mandorla dulce, mandula, mangel, mantelli, migdal, migdala, migdalo, mindal, Prunoidae (subfamily), Prunus communis dulcis , Prunus dulcis var. dulcis, Rosaceae (family), sladkiy mindal, sötmandel, süßmandel, sweet almond oil, tatli badem, tian wei bian tao, tian xing ren, vaadaam, vadumai, zoete amandel.

Note: Sweet almond should not be confused with bitter almond, which contains amygdalin and can be broken down into the poisonous substance hydrocyanic acid (cyanide).

EvidenceReturn to top

These uses have been tested in humans or animals. Safety and effectiveness have not always been proven. Some of these conditions are potentially serious, and should be evaluated by a qualified healthcare provider.

Uses based on scientific evidence	Grade^*
High cholesterol (whole almonds) Early studies in humans and animals report that whole almonds may lower total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein (LDL/"bad" cholesterol), and raise high-density lipoprotein (HDL/"good" cholesterol"). It is not clear what dose may be safe or effective.	B
Radiation therapy skin reactions (used on the skin) In preliminary study, an ointment made of sweet almond has not shown a benefit when applied to the skin of patients treated with radiation.	D

*Key to grades

A: Strong scientific evidence for this use;

B: Good scientific evidence for this use;

C: Unclear scientific evidence for this use;

D: Fair scientific evidence against this use;

F: Strong scientific evidence against this use.

Grading rationale

Uses based on tradition or theory

The below uses are based on tradition or scientific theories. They often have not been thoroughly tested in humans, and safety and effectiveness have not always been proven. Some of these conditions are potentially serious, and should be evaluated by a qualified healthcare provider.

Antibacterial, anxiety, aphrodisiac, bladder cancer, breast cancer, chapped lips, colon cancer, dilution of injected medications, emollient, heart disease, increasing sperm count, mild laxative, moisturizer, mouth and throat cancers, plant-derived estrogen, uterine cancer.

Dosing

The below doses are based on scientific research, publications, traditional use, or expert opinion. Many herbs and supplements have not been thoroughly tested, and safety and effectiveness may not be proven. Brands may be made differently, with variable ingredients, even within the same brand. The below doses may not apply to all products. You should read product labels, and discuss doses with a qualified healthcare provider before starting therapy.

Adults (18 years and older)

Studies have used 84 to 100 grams of whole almonds daily by mouth with no reported side effects to treat high cholesterol. As a laxative, 30 milliliters of sweet almond oil daily by mouth has been used.

Children (younger than 18 years)

Little information is available for the use of sweet almonds in children, aside from the amounts normally eaten in the diet.

Allergies

Allergies to almonds are common and can lead to severe reactions, including oral allergic syndrome (OAS), swelling of the lips and face, and closure of the throat. People who are allergic to one type of nut may also be allergic to other nuts. Avoid use in anyone with known allergy to almonds, almond products, or other nuts.

Notes:

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EditText of this page (last edited February 16, 2008)