Beauty benefits of almonds

Almonds can be eaten in many ways, and have a plethora of health benefits. They can be soaked overnight and eaten in the morning, or even simply as a snack.

Grind them up and mix it into your cake batter, to get an almond cake, or simply garnish your protein shake with broken almonds. The best part about almonds is that they are not only used in desserts, but make for great savoury dishes too. Experts say that eating even an ounce of almonds a day can reduce the risk of potential heart disease. So, what are you waiting for? Start including almonds in your daily routine, today!

For overall health
An ounce (or a handful) of almonds is rich in proteins, fibres, vitamins and trace minerals. They are also less in sugar. So, consuming almonds every day has a multitude of health benefits. They help protect the heart against diseases, as they are rich in magnesium, which is essential for a healthy heart. Additionally, they are good for reducing cholesterol levels and aid in weight loss too. They promote gastrointestinal health and help combat diabetes too, as the sugar content in almonds is less.

Tip: Soak six to eight almonds in water or milk overnight. Peel the skin off in the morning and consume immediately

For hair
Almond oil is useful in treating almost all kinds of hair ailments. It not only arrests hair fall, but is also useful in the treatment of dandruff, and delays greying. In addition, using almond oil, will make your hair healthier and shiny too. Almond oil is easily available in the market these days, and it can be used either by itself or in combination with other oils, in order to maintain the health of your hair.

Tip: For healthy hair, mix three tablespoons of almond oil with two tablespoons of castor oil and a hibiscus flower. Heat it gently, and once it cools down a bit, massage on to scalp for ten minutes. Wrap your head in a hot towel for about an hour. Shampoo as usual.

For skin
Almond oil or moisturisers that are rich in almonds is very good for the skin. Almond oil is rich in olein glyceride and linoleic acid which help prevent the occurrence of acne, pimples, and blackheads. Almonds are also rich in Vitamin E which keeps the skin soft and supple. Almond oil is also used on babies to tone their skin and to aid in muscle growth.

Tip: Mix quarter cup almonds (chopped and powdered in a mixie), with quarter cup of brown sugar. Add in two tablespoons of honey and a dash of almond oil to make a face scrub. Use twice daily, and watch your skin glow in a matter of weeks.