Sweet almond oil (Prunus dulcis)
What sweet almond oil is, how classical Indian texts describe it, what published studies show and where they fall short, how to use it safely, and which GraceYes products contain it.
Names
Badam tel (Hindi); Vatada (Sanskrit). It is pressed from the sweet kernel.
Classical Indian view
There is no API monograph. A secondary source cites Bhavaprakasha, which describes almond as Madhura (sweet), Snigdha (unctuous) and Vata-reducing (secondary source); we have not been able to check the verse ourselves.
Key compounds
Oleic acid, linoleic acid, vitamin E.
What studies show
- A review covers its use for dry, ageing and atopic skin (PubMed).
- An almond oil cream reduced the itch and redness of pregnancy stretch marks and limited their spread. It did not reduce their number. This was a double-blind trial (n=160) (PubMed).
Safety
Almond is a tree-nut allergen. It is the most common food allergen in children's skincare (PubMed). Avoid it if you have a nut allergy.
GraceYes products that contain it
Sweet Almond Oil, Baby After Shower Oil, Under Eye Cream, Face Serum, Hydrating Face Serum, Age Gracefully Face Oil, Age Gracefully Face Cream, Lip Balm, Turmeric Soap, Hair Oil, Hand & Feet Cream, After Shower Oil, After Shave Oil, Shaving Cream Bar, Relaxing Aromablend Oil.
This page is for general information and is not medical advice. Studies are linked so you can read them yourself. Always patch-test a new product, and speak to a doctor about any skin or scalp condition.