The history of almonds – one of the healthiest nuts

Almonds are among the most popular and beloved nuts, well known for their health benefits even to those who don’t consider themselves fans of a healthy lifestyle or nutrition science. Almonds are consumed as food, used in confectionery, applied in herbal medicine, and pressed into raw oil — one of the most effective products for the beauty and health of skin, hair, and nails.

Yet few people know that almonds aren’t technically nuts at all. They are actually stone fruits with inedible flesh and a tasty, aromatic pit — the part used in cooking.

People discovered the excellent taste and health benefits of almonds not 10 or 100, but several thousand years ago. Almonds are one of those foods surrounded by fascinating historical facts.

Interesting facts from the history of almonds

The name «almond» has Greco-Roman origins. The word derives from amygdalus, which in turn comes from the Hebrew magidyen, meaning «blessed gift of God».

In early Christian texts, it is written that the prophet Moses saw a shepherd’s staff suddenly bloom with beautiful flowers, which then bore fruit — the almond. That’s when the expression «to act oddly» (related to the Russian expression «миндальничать») appeared, meaning to do something unusual or strange.

In Ancient Rome and Egypt, bakers always added a little almond flour when preparing desserts for nobles. Sweet rolls, flatbreads, and other treats became especially tender and fragrant.

Today, one of the most popular French croissants is the almond croissant, made from equal parts wheat and almond flour.

The Greeks and Romans were not the only ones to value almonds. In the culture of the ancient Phoenicians, there was a goddess named Amygdalina, prayed to for a successful marriage and a happy family life. In Greece, it is still customary at weddings to treat newlyweds to almonds, wishing them prosperity and harmony.

In the Middle Ages, people living in what is now Iran called almonds the «Tree of Heaven», and in the East, almonds were considered a harbinger of spring.

The use of almonds in ancient medicine

One of the earliest mentions of the healing properties of almonds is found in the writings of Avicenna. He created «beneficial bitter drops» from almonds, which he used to treat women’s diseases and even infertility, then considered a curse.

The Arab physician Ibn Massun described a recipe for an almond «miracle remedy» to enhance male strength and fertility. He also recommended almonds for those with intestinal problems.

His colleague Masuri made an almond tincture that helped with bladder issues and normalized kidney function.

Today, almonds and almond oil are used not only in cooking and cosmetics but also in official medicine. Raw fat obtained from these fruits is part of medicines for kidney diseases and liver protection.

Eating almonds helps normalize spleen function and stabilize blood glucose levels. Almonds are one of the foods recommended for diabetics and those at risk of developing diabetes.

In addition, almonds and almond oil help balance hormones and, with regular consumption, reduce PMS symptoms and menstrual pain.

Fresh, certified almonds and almond oil from CraftOil – the best products for healthy eating and well-being

The manufacturer CraftOil offers a wide and regularly updated range of tasty, aromatic, fresh, and incredibly healthy oils, including almonds and their “live” oil. These are premium-quality products, carefully inspected and certified.

Our almonds are grown without agrochemicals and pesticides, harvested at full maturity, and stored in ideal conditions. We press the oil only on the day of order, using our own presses and elite caprolon or ash barrels (dry-assembled). The product is immediately bottled in dark glass bottles, hermetically sealed, and shipped across Ukraine and Europe.

Our products are highly valued for their quality, freshness, and eco-friendliness. Want to learn more? Interested in other oils, grains, seeds, or nuts? Leave a request on our website, and our consultants will answer all your questions and help you choose the right product.