Bitter Almonds
Those who grow almonds know that trees that bear pink blossoms have bitter almonds while trees that bear white blossoms have sweet almonds. Sweet almonds are used from everything from cooking to skin and hair treatment, but what about the bitter kind? Here are a few reasons why this may be a seed to avoid.
What are bitter almonds? Many are so accustomed to using the sweet variety that they know very little about the bitter kind. These almonds are slightly smaller and broader than their brethren. True to their name, they tend to taste rather bitter, which is why they're only used in specialty recipes in very small amounts.
When it comes to health benefits, these almonds have much the same properties as sweet almonds. They contain high amounts of natural omega fats, which are good for fighting cholesterol. They are also rich in vitamin E, calcium, iron, protein, fiber, and much more. However, due to their harmful qualities, not only are they extremely difficult to come by, but you can only eat them in very slight amounts.
These almonds are also used in aromatherapy and massage. However, given their harmful properties, in most cases bitter almond scented soaps, candles, and oils are created through artificial means, thus allowing customers to enjoy the distinctive scent of bitter almonds without the risk.
Almonds also have a history of being used in alternative medicines. Indeed, the bitter variety has been used for everything from anesthetics to cures for hangovers, but due to their high toxicity, modern medicine typically doesn't use them. They can be effective in very small doses, but should you use too much, you can find yourself suffering from cyanide poisoning.
This is why these particular almonds are banned throughout the US. However, if you would like to enjoy many of the benefits that bitter almonds provide, you're in luck. Whether you use them in cooking, aromatherapy, or massage, you can get much of the same benefits from sweet almonds as you do from bitter almonds, all without the risk. They're also much safer to consume in large amounts. However, if you need the unique bitter taste, many recipes recommend the use of cherry pits or peach kernels instead.
While some may consider the severe restriction of bitter almonds as a severe disadvantage, in the long run it's simply not worth the risk of being poisoned. With so many substitutes on the market today, however, you can find a variety of perfectly acceptable ways to include a slightly bitter taste to your cooking or a new note to your aromatherapy. Learn more today!