Prunus dulcis
Prunus dulcis@TheWholesalerCo
Common Name | Almond |
Botanical Name | Prunus dulcis |
Family | Rosaceae |
Origin/Distribution |
Native to the Middle East, particularly Iran and surrounding regions. Now cultivated in the Mediterranean, California, and other temperate regions worldwide.
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Main Phytochemicals |
- Phenolic compounds (e.g., quercetin, kaempferol)
- Flavonoids - Fatty acids (mainly monounsaturated fats like oleic acid) - Vitamin E - Phytosterols |
Medicinal Uses |
- Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties
- Supports heart health due to high levels of unsaturated fats and Vitamin E - May help lower cholesterol and manage diabetes |
Nutritional Content |
- Rich in Vitamin E (alpha-tocopherol)
- Good source of magnesium, calcium, and potassium - High in healthy fats, mainly monounsaturated fatty acids |
Edible Parts |
Seeds (almonds are consumed raw, roasted, or processed into almond milk, oil, and flour)
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Potential Toxicity |
Bitter almonds contain amygdalin, which can release cyanide. Sweet almonds, commonly consumed, are safe, but bitter almonds can be toxic if eaten in large amounts.
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Uses in Traditional Medicine |
- Used in Ayurvedic, Unani, and traditional Mediterranean medicine for skin health, boosting brain function, and treating digestive and respiratory ailments
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Industrial Uses |
- Almond oil is widely used in cosmetics, skincare products, and pharmaceuticals
- Almond flour is a gluten-free alternative used in baking - Used in milk alternatives |
Antioxidant Activity |
Almonds are rich in antioxidants, particularly Vitamin E, which helps combat oxidative stress and supports skin health.
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Other Bioactivities |
- Antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties
- Potential cancer-preventive activities due to the presence of phytochemicals and antioxidants |
Culinary Uses |
- Eaten raw, roasted, or added to dishes and desserts
- Processed into almond butter, almond milk, or almond flour used in gluten-free cooking |
Sources | |