Sweet almond oil can benefit pregnant women
The almond (scientific name - Prunus dulcis) is a very popular nut that occurs in nature in two basic varieties: bitter and sweet. Both types serve different purposes, with the sweet almond being the edible variety. The oil derived from the sweet almond has beneficial properties and, subsequently, several beneficial uses, including some that offer help and relief to pregnant women.
Massage Therapy
Sweet almond oil can be soothing when used for massage therapy
Pregnancy is a very physically and emotionally draining experience for women. They can experience sore and tired muscles from tension as well as from the physical burden of carrying the added baby weight around. Massage therapy is recommended to provide relief from physical pain as well as to provide stress relief during the pregnancy. Sweet almond oil is recommended to be used as it softens and soothes the skin, making it ideal for a relaxing massage.
Perineal Area Treatment
Treating the perineal area with sweet almond oil is recommended during pregnancy. The perineal area is located between the anus and the vaginal opening. This area can sometimes tear during strenuous childbirth. Massaging of this area daily with the oil for at least five minutes during the last five to six weeks of pregnancy is prescribed as a way to keep this skin supple and more elastic, and therefore less likely to stretch and tear. Sweet almond oil is a good choice due to its natural skin-softening properties.
Preventing Stretch Marks
Sweet almond oil is used during pregnancy to help prevent stretch marks from forming. Stretch marks occur on many pregnant women due to the rapid growth of certain areas of the body. The oil is applied to the pregnant woman's thighs, breasts and stomach, areas which are prone to exhibiting stretch marks after birth. Daily massages of these areas with sweet almond oil will give them an elasticity that will help them resist developing stretch lines.
Safety
Sweet almond oil has been found to be safe to use during pregnancy as a massage oil or skin treatment. It has also been found to be safe to eat when it is used as an ingredient in foods. Pregnant women should avoid the bitter variety of almond, as well as the drug laetrile which is manufactured using bitter almonds. There is a potential risk for birth defects if bitter almonds are ingested during pregnancy.
Uses Outside Pregnancy
Sweet almond oil has several other uses. It is often used alone or in combination with other oils in aromatherapy body massage. Its softening properties make it useful as a skin treatment, improving the general appearance and suppleness of dry skin. It has even found use as a hair treatment. Sweet almonds and the oil produced from them are found in a variety of food products, including nougat and macaroons, and as an ingredient in cake recipes.
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