Almond oil is rapidly gaining popularity as a versatile and beneficial oil for both health and beauty. While eating whole almonds is one way to access their health benefits, another is to use almond oil. If you’re planning on using almond oil for its health benefits, it’s important to find unrefined almond oil. Unrefined almond oil is extracted from whole almonds without the use of heat; this produces a more nutritional oil.

How Is Almond Oil Made?

Understanding how almond oil is made can help you choose the best quality oil for its health benefits. There are two main types of almond oil: refined and unrefined.

Unrefined Almond Oil

Unrefined almond oil is made by pressing raw almonds without the use of high heat or chemical solvents. This cold-pressing method preserves most of the natural nutrients, including healthy fats, vitamins, and antioxidants. Unrefined almond oil has a richer flavor and aroma, making it ideal for both culinary and cosmetic uses.

Refined Almond Oil

Refined almond oil is made by using high heat and sometimes chemical agents to extract the oil from almonds. This process results in a more neutral oil with a higher smoke point, which can be useful for high-heat cooking. However, refining reduces the oil's nutritional content, making it less beneficial for health and beauty applications.

Why Choose Unrefined Almond Oil?

For maximum health benefits, it's best to choose unrefined almond oil. The cold-pressing process ensures that the oil retains its valuable nutrients, such as vitamin E, monounsaturated fats, and antioxidants. Unrefined almond oil is perfect for adding to salads, smoothies, and skincare routines.

What Are The Health Benefits Of Almond Oil?

Most of the health benefits associated with almond oil come from its high levels of healthy fats, but almond oil is also rich in vitamin E, a potent antioxidant. Here are just six of the amazing health benefits associated with consuming and using almond oil.

1. Almond Oil Can Help To Increase Your Levels Of “Good” Cholesterol

Almond oil is 70% monounsaturated fat, which has been proven to have positive effects on heart health and cholesterol levels. Monounsaturated fats increase the body’s levels of “good” HDL cholesterol, which clears fatty deposits from the arteries, reducing a person’s risk of developing heart disease. What’s more, almond oil also helps to lower levels of “bad” LDL cholesterol, reducing overall cholesterol levels in the body.

2. Almond Oil Is Very High In Vitamin E

Just one tablespoon of almond oil provides 26% of a person’s recommended daily intake of vitamin E, a very potent antioxidant. Antioxidants help to fight free radicals in the body, reducing oxidative damage and helping to prevent diseases such as macular degeneration, cancer, and heart disease.

3. Almond Oil Can Help To Keep Your Blood Sugar Levels Stable

Almond oil is primarily made up of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, both of which have been scientifically proven to help lower and stabilize the blood sugar levels in people who have diabetes. Adding a little bit of almond oil to your meals can help to prevent a blood sugar spike both during and after the meal itself.

4. Almond Oil Can Help You Lose Weight

Although almond oil is very calorific, a diet that is rich in healthy fats has been proven to help people reach their long-term weight goals. People who consume healthy monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats as a part of a balanced diet have been shown to lose more body fat and lose more weight than people who avoid fat altogether.

5. Almond Oil Can Help To Prevent Premature Aging

Almond oil is a popular ingredient in skincare products such as moisturizers and face masks because its high antioxidant levels can prevent sun damage and slow down the aging process. Almond oil is also an emollient which means it helps to keep your skin hydrated by trapping in moisture. People who prefer a more natural skincare routine can use almond oil on its own by applying a few drops to their skin after cleansing.

6. Almond Oil Can Help To Protect And Strengthen Your Hair

Lastly, almond oil is also a fantastic product to put on your hair. Besides helping to lock in moisture, almond oil can also help strengthen and protect your hair during styling. Using almond oil regularly on your hair can reduce split ends and increase its glossiness and shine.

Where to Buy Almond Oil in Canada

Finding high-quality almond oil is essential to reap its full benefits. In Canada, there are several reliable sources where you can purchase unrefined almond oil, both in physical stores and online.

Online Retailers

1. Amazon Canada: Amazon offers a wide variety of almond oil brands, including organic and unrefined options. Be sure to check reviews and product descriptions to find the best quality.
2. Well.ca: This Canadian online health store provides a selection of natural and organic almond oils. They often have customer reviews that can help you make an informed decision.
3. iHerb: iHerb ships to Canada and offers numerous brands of almond oil. Look for cold-pressed and unrefined options to ensure you're getting a nutrient-rich product.

Health Food Stores

1. Whole Foods Market: With locations in major cities across Canada, Whole Foods Market stocks high-quality almond oil in their health and beauty sections.
2. Bulk Barn: Known for its bulk food and natural product offerings, Bulk Barn carries almond oil that can be purchased in various quantities.
3. Natural Health Stores: Local health food stores such as Goodness Me!, Nature's Emporium, and Ambrosia Natural Foods often stock premium almond oil. Check with your local store for availability.

Supermarkets and Pharmacies

1. Loblaws and Real Canadian Superstore: These supermarkets frequently offer a selection of cooking and cosmetic oils, including almond oil.
2. Shoppers Drug Mart: Many locations carry natural oils in their beauty aisles, including almond oil suitable for skincare.

When purchasing almond oil, look for labels that specify "unrefined," "cold-pressed," and "organic" to ensure you're getting the best product. Reading customer reviews and checking the ingredient list can also help you make a well-informed choice.

So there you have it! These are just six of the fantastic benefits of almond oil - but there are so many more. Have you tried almond oil before? Share your experiences in the comments below and let us know how almond oil has benefited you!