Prunus amygdalus dulcis oil (inci)

Prunus amygdalus dulcis oil refers to the oil obtained by cold pressing of the seeds (kernels) of the sweet almond (Prunus dulcis var. dulcis).

Prunus dulcis var. dulcis, the almond tree, like the variation Prunus dulcis var. amara, belongs to the rose family and is today mainly cultivated in California and the Mediterranean region. Its hairy, somewhat felt-like appearance, initially light green and later dark brown, leathery, firm, approximately plum-sized drupes contain a cream-coloured seed kernel, the actual almond, which is approximately 2 cm in size and enclosed by a light brown seed coat. Antioxidants are concentrated in the seed skin, which prevents the penetration of atmospheric oxygen and thus the rancidity of the stored oils (mainly oleic acid, linoleic acid) of the almond.

The cream-coloured almond kernels are flattened at the sides, about 1.8-2.5 cm long. They taste sweet and contain 40-65% fatty oil (especially oleic and linoleic acid), 10% sucrose, glucose, up to 30% protein, choline, asparagine, max. 0.1% amygdalin, emulsin, enzymes.

Prunus amygdalus dulcis oil is a fine, pale yellow, slightly nutty smelling oil. It is used in cosmetic formulations. The extract acts as a skin care product and emollient (makes the skin smooth and supple).

Ammon H et al (2014). Hunnius Pharmaceutical Dictionary. Walter de Gruyter GmbH Berlin/Boston S 1478