Almond Oil: A Versatile and Affordable Household Essential Seed Oil

Almond oil is extracted from the nutrient-rich kernels of almond fruits, which makes it a seed oil rather than a true nut oil.

Almond oil has for thousands of years been cherished for its numerous health and beauty benefits. From skincare to culinary applications, this versatile seed oil has found its way into countless households through the ages.

Below we will explore the common uses, sources, current price per volume, where to buy it, ways to save money, how to make homemade almond oil, useful tips & tricks, and some common diy household remedies and recipes utilizing this organic natural wonder.

Common Uses of Almond Oil:
Almond oil has gained popularity for its wide range of practical household applications. It is widely used in natural skincare routines due to its gentle, moisturizing, medicinal, and nourishing properties. Its mild nature makes it suitable for all skin types and it is often used as an effective base or carrier oil for essential oils and cosmetics. Additionally, almond oil is beneficial for promoting hair health, as it helps to strengthen and condition the hair strands. Its subtle nutty aroma also makes it a popular choice for aromatherapy and perfumes. 

Interesting Trivia and Little Known Facts about Almond Oil:

• Almond oil has been used for centuries in traditional Ayurvedic medicine for its therapeutic properties and as a natural remedy for various ailments.
• Almond oil is rich in vitamins A, E, and D, as well as minerals like calcium and magnesium, making it a nourishing choice for the skin and hair.
• The use of almond oil in skincare dates back to ancient Egypt, where it was used by pharaohs and queens to maintain youthful and radiant skin.
• Almond oil is a popular massage oil due to its lubricating and moisturizing properties. It absorbs easily into the skin, leaving it soft and supple. The oil is a rich source of healing and free radical protective Vitamin E, providing about 131% of the Daily Value in just 50 milliliters. (Full nutritional information for Almond Oil)
• Almond oil is edible and often used in cooking and baking as a healthier alternative to other oils. It adds a subtle nutty flavor to dishes and is a common ingredient in food flavorings.

Sources and Price of Almond Oil:
Almond oil is primarily sourced from two types of almonds: sweet almonds and bitter almonds. Sweet almonds are commonly used for oil extraction due to their milder flavor. Almond oil can be found in most grocery stores, health food stores, and online retailers such as Amazon.com. The price per volume may vary depending on the brand, quality, and extraction process. On average, a 16-ounce bottle of almond oil can range from $10 to $20.

Ways to Save Money on Almond Oil:

If you're looking to save money on sweet almond oil, consider the following tips:

1. Buy in bulk: Purchasing almond oil in larger quantities often leads to cost savings, or try the simple recipe below to make as much almond oil as you like.
2. Look for sales and discounts: Keep an eye out for special promotions and discounts offered by retailers. But beware of deep discounts on almond oil because you often get what you pay for in terms of poorer quality if price seems too good to be true. Discounted price could also mean it's past or near the expiration date. All seed oils can eventually become rancid, so always look for a longer remaining shelf life and do the sniff test to be sure there is no rancid odor.
3. Explore different brands: Compare prices and read reviews to find affordable yet reliable brands. 
4. Make your own almond oil: Making home made almond oil is not only cost-effective but also allows you to ensure its quality and freshness. Keep reading for a quick and simple method of making your own sweet almond oil.

Making Almond Oil at Home:

Although the oil is readily available in stores, almond oil can also be made at home for those seeking a more cost-effective diy option.

Almonds are a rich source of healthy oils which when separated out will equal about half the total dry weight of any amount of almonds. So for a pound of sweet almonds, you can expect to extract approximately a half pound of oil.

Making homemade almond oil is quick, easy and can save you money. To make homemade almond oil, you will need raw sweet almonds, a blender or food processor, pan, spatula, and cheesecloth.

1. Start by grinding the almonds (2 to 5 cups) into a fine powder using the blender or food processor.
2. Add water gradually and continue blending until a thick paste forms. Or add water after the almonds are ground until a loose paste is formed.
3. Cook paste for about 10 minutes in a pan to help release the oils from the solids, using spatula to slowly stir.
4. Filter the cooked paste through cheesecloth. Squeeze all the almond milk into the pan to return to medium heat until all the water appears to be gone, with a thick paste remaining. Reduce heat and stir until oil appears on top and remaining water evaporates off.
5. After almond paste is cool, in portions of a few tablespoons at a time, squeeze out the almond oil from the almond paste using the cheesecloth, collecting the oil in a clean container. Filter through an additional fine filter to remove any remaining tiny particles. 
6. Note: The remaining de-fatted almond solids are a nutritious and tasty addition to smoothies, baked goods, soups, or salads.
7. Store homemade almond oil in an air-tight container and keep it in a cool, dark place for optimal shelf-life and freshness.

Sweet Almond Oil can be used to make moisturizing skin-healing gentle soap, healing lip balm, bath oils, scalp stimulator, and household polishes, cleaners and protectors

Effective Almond Oil Household Remedy Recipes, Tips and Tricks:

1. Soothing Almond Oil Skin Moisturizer: Mix equal parts almond oil and aloe vera gel for a soothing and hydrating skin moisturizer. Apply it to dry, itchy, or irritated skin for instant relief from skin conditions such as eczema or psoriasis.
2. Homemade Moisturizing Skin-healing Sweet Almond Oil Soap: Sweet almond oil adds soothing and healing properties to soap, without making diy soap greasy. Sweet almond oil soap is particularly effective for healing and soothing psoriasis, dry skin, flaky skin, irritated skin, acne, pimples, rashes, or eczema. Since almond oil consists of fatty acids that remain liquid at room temperature, rather becoming a solid, add at a reduced rate of only 5% to 10%, or you can add a tablespoon of Sweet Almond Oil per pound of oils after the saponification step.  
3. Revitalizing Almond Oil Hair Mask: Combine almond oil, honey, and a few drops of lavender essential oil to create a nourishing hair mask. Apply it to damp hair, leave it on for 20 minutes, and rinse thoroughly for lustrous locks.
4. Almond Oil for Natural Makeup Remover: Almond oil can effectively remove stubborn makeup, including waterproof mascara. Apply a small amount to a cotton pad and gently wipe off the makeup. It not only cleanses the skin but also nourishes the lashes and delicate eye area.
5. Cuticle Care: Massage a few drops of almond oil into your cuticles to soften and moisturize them. Regular use can help prevent dry and cracked cuticles, promoting healthy nail growth.
6. Scalp Treatment: For a nourishing scalp treatment, warm up some almond oil and gently massage it into your scalp. Leave it on for an hour or overnight before shampooing. This helps moisturize the scalp, reduce dandruff, and promote healthy hair growth.
7. Lip Balm: Apply a thin layer of almond oil to your lips to keep them soft and hydrated. It acts as a natural lip balm, providing moisture and preventing chapped lips.
8. Homemade Natural Lip Scrub: Create a homemade natural lip scrub by mixing almond oil with honey and sugar for smooth and soft lips.
9. Homemade Sugar Scrub / Facial Exfoliation: Make a DIY facial scrub by combining almond oil with sugar or salt for gentle exfoliation.
10. Mix-in for Homemade Masks: Enhance the benefits of homemade face or hair masks by adding a few drops of almond oil. It boosts the nourishing properties of the mask, leaving your skin and hair feeling extra pampered.
11. Wooden Utensil Care: Almond oil can be used to condition and maintain wooden kitchen utensils and cutting boards. Apply a small amount of oil to a cloth and rub it into the wood to prevent drying and cracking.
12. Leather Protector: Condition and soften leather items such as shoes or bags by applying a small amount of almond oil and gently buffing.
13. Shaving Oil: Almond oil can be used as a natural shaving oil for a smooth and close shave. Apply a thin layer to the area before shaving to provide lubrication and minimize irritation.
14. Homemade Furniture Polish: Create a DIY furniture polish by combining equal parts almond oil and lemon juice. Apply to wooden surfaces for a shiny finish.
15. Tarnish Remover / Jewelry Cleaner: Remove tarnish from silverware or jewelry by soaking them in a mixture of almond oil and lemon juice, then gently polishing with a cloth.
16. Stainless Steel / Copper Cleaner: Polish and restore the shine of stainless steel appliances by wiping them with a cloth dampened in almond oil. Use almond oil as a natural and non-toxic alternative to polish and shine your stainless steel or copper cookware.
17. Bath Oil: Mix almond oil with a few drops of essential oils to create a relaxing and moisturizing bath oil.
18. Adhesive Remover: Remove sticky residue or adhesive from surfaces by rubbing a small amount of almond oil onto the affected area.
19. Remove Paint or Ink Stains: Use almond oil to remove paint or ink stains from your skin by gently rubbing it onto the stained area.
20. Lubricate Metal Parts: Use almond oil as a natural lubricant for squeaky hinges or stuck zippers.
21. Mirror Defogger: Prevent bathroom mirrors from fogging up by wiping them with a small amount of almond oil and a clean cloth.

NOTE: Remember to spot test almond oil on a small area of your skin before using it extensively, especially if you have allergies or sensitive skin.

With its fascinating history and versatility, almond oil continues to be a valuable asset in the realm of natural remedies and self-care routines. Incorporating these tips and tricks into your daily routine will help you make the most of this nourishing seed oil.

In conclusion, almond oil is a valuable addition to any household due to its versatile uses, ranging from skincare to culinary applications. By exploring the various uses and recipes mentioned above, you can unlock the potential of almond oil and enjoy its many benefits.