The sweet almond (Prunus dulcius) is a species of tree belonging to the Rosaceae family native to Iran and surrounding countries. Technically considered a drupe, not a nut, the almond fruit is cultivated both for its culinary applications and its oils, which are a rich source of Vitamin E.

The word almond comes from the old French almande, which is derived from amygdala, also known as the almond-shaped part of the brain that processes our memories, decisions, and emotional responses. And as much as it looks like a part of the brain, it turns out the humble almond does the other parts of the body - like the heart -- a whole lot of good.

In a 2016 study, it was found that regular consumption of almonds may reduce the risk of heart disease. Potent sources of protein, almonds also are rich in vitamins like calcium, iron, and fiber. Almond oil similarly soothes the skin with its nourishing nutrients like Vitamin E.

It's why sweet almond oil is often used in natural skincare, like AMASS Botanic Lotion, where it blends with coconut oil to condition and soothe the appearance of dry skin. In fact, that's what the light emollient has been doing since Cleopatra's time, when it was first used as a salve.

Of course, the sweet almond is also a common culinary ingredient. You know it best in marzipan, almond milk, almond butter, and as a tasty snack in its own right, often salted and roasted. Its sweet, distinctive flavor makes it popular across cultures; in Morocco, as a sweet paste used to fill pastries, in Israel as a topping for tahini cookies, and in Germany and Italy as a popular Easter cake or bread.

The almond was once revered for more than its taste, however. The botanical appeared numerous times in the Bible, serving as a symbol of watchfulness and promise because of its early flowering. It's described as "among the best of fruit," and the almond blossom is said to have supplied a model for the menorah.

At AMASS, we love the ingredient for its skin-softening properties. Thanks to its polyphenol antioxidants, sweet almond oil works wonders in nourishing the driest winter skin, making it an effective emollient in our Botanic Lotion, fit for both hands and body.