The seeds of the almond tree [(Prunus dulcis (Mill.) D. A. Webb. (syn. Prunus amygdalus)] were collected in two different periods of maturity and were studied for their lipid content. The total lipids (TL) were extracted by the Bligh-Dyer method and the lipid classes have been isolated by chromatographic techniques and were analyzed by HPTLC coupled with a flame ionization detector (HPTLC/FID) and GC-MS. The oils were found to be rich in neutral lipids (89.9% and 96.3% of total lipids) and low in polar lipids (10.1% and 3.7% of total lipids) for the immature and mature seed oils, respectively. The neutral lipid fraction consisted mainly of triacylglycerides whereas the polar lipids mainly consisted of phospholipids. GC-MS data showed that the main fatty acid for both oils was 9-octadecenoic acid (oleic acid). The unsaturated fatty acids were found as high as 89.4% and 89.7%, while the percentage of the saturated fatty acids was found 10.6% and 10.3% for the immature and mature seed oils, respectively. Liposomes were prepared from the isolated phospholipids using the thin lipid film methodology, and their physical properties were characterized. Cytotoxicity was found absent when assayed against normal and cancerous cell lines. These new formulations may have future applications for encapsulation and delivery of drugs and cosmetically active ingredients (1).

References__________________________________

(1)  Liposomal formulations from phospholipids of Greek almond oil. Properties and biological
Malisiova F, Hatziantoniou S, Dimas K, Kletstas D, Demetzos C
Z Naturforsch C. 2004 May-Jun;59(5-6):330-4.

Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis Oil is sweet almond oil, which is obtained by cold pressing almonds. Recently, new extraction technologies such as supercritical fluid extraction, ultrasound-assisted extraction and salt-assisted aqueous extraction have been used.

What it is used for and where

Cosmetics

Used as an emollient and sclerosant, it produces a smoothing action on the skin. Emollients have the characteristic of improving the skin barrier through a source of exogenous lipids that adhere to the skin, improving barrier properties and protecting against inflammation. As a skin conditioning agent, it can improve skin tone and complexion in general without contraindications.

Other applications:

• face masks
• preventing stretch marks on the skin
• treating dry hair
• treating cracked skin

Medical

Clinical studies have shown properties in counteracting some major diseases, reducing oxidative stress, glucose homeostasis, protection against cardiovascular risk, neuroprotection. It also reduces the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome.

It has no allergic contraindications.

Photochemical analysis revealed a number of compounds beneficial to health: Phenolic acids (hydrobenzoic acids), polyphenolic acids (ellagic acid, gallic acid, caffeic acid), isoflavones, anthocyanins (cyanidin and delphinidin), bioflavonoids, flavanols (epicatechin and procyanidins), flavonol glycosides (kaempferol, quercetin, isorhamnetin-3-O-glucoside), triterpenes, tannins, all with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity.

Unsaturated fatty acids were found to be 89.4 and 89.7 per cent, while the proportion of saturated fatty acids is 10.6 and 10.3 per cent for immature and mature seed oil, respectively (1).

Furthermore, an important amount of tocopherol and a good phytosterol content is present.

"Prunus Amygdalus Dulcis Oil composition"

References________________________________________________________________

(1)  Malisiova F, Hatziantoniou S, Dimas K, Kletstas D, Demetzos C. Liposomal formulations from phospholipids of Greek almond oil. Properties and biological activity. Z Naturforsch C J Biosci. 2004 May-Jun;59(5-6):330-4. doi: 10.1515/znc-2004-5-607.